Motorola, Inc., (NYSE: MOT) today introduced the first in a new category of multiple communication handsets that can run local and networked applications, which can extend the power of the wireless Internet. The computing capabilities of the new devices are enabled by Java(TM) 2 Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME(TM)) from Sun Microsystems. J2ME is a Java software environment that enables secure, dynamic downloading of applications to a range of wireless devices.
Unveiled at Sun's annual JavaOne(SM) Conference, the multiple communication and computing platform represents a new direction for the wireless communications industry that can potentially add another level of productivity for mobile users and create revenue opportunities for manufacturers, network operators and application developers.
The new handset platform will enable millions of Java technology developers to quickly create wireless applications, and end users to execute a wide variety of local and networked J2ME-based applications, from groupware to games. Network operators will have the opportunity to offer new applications, serve vertical segments and provide potential new revenue sources.
The new handset platform uses Motorola's iDEN(R) technology which enables users to make and receive phone calls, instantly communicate with one or hundreds of individuals with the touch of a button, receive text messages, access Internet information(1), send and receive e-mail(1) and allow the phone to function as a wireless modem(1). And now with J2ME, future iDEN multiple communications phones can run local and network-based Java technology based applications, allowing enterprises to extend their networks to the mobile environment.
A number of Motorola collaborators are demonstrating J2ME-based applications for the new multiple communication and computing platform at JavaOne, including Bonita Software, BuildNet, Digital Bridges and HiddenMind Technology. Applications range from e-mail and expense reporting applications to local and interactive games. With mobile commerce and content leading the development of wireless Internet services, Motorola is working with companies to help end users take the Internet with them on the go.
"As the leading provider of Internet-enabled handsets, the iDEN Subscriber Group is constantly pushing the limits of new technology," said Bill Werner, corporate vice president of Motorola, Inc. and general manager of the iDEN Subscriber Group. "By embracing J2ME and collaborating with innovative application partners, we believe the new multiple communications and computing platform will change the way people think about and use mobile phones."
"Providing users access to mobile applications is just the first step to success in the mobile data market," said Phillip Redman, senior analyst for Gartner's Systems and Networking Group. "The challenge remains to tap into the specific mobile needs of users and provide them with a simple, cost-effective service that helps solve everyday issues."
The new multiple communication and computing platform is made possible in part by Metrowerks, a Motorola subsidiary and a leading provider of software development tools for desktop and embedded systems. Metrowerks' CodeWarrior Integrated Development Environment (IDE) allows developers to create applications and content for high-end networked consumer devices, such as handsets developed for the new multiple communication and computing platform.
"By adding support for J2ME technology to the CodeWarrior IDE, we are providing the Java developer community with the tools they need to extend the Java platform's cross-platform benefits to the mobile device space," said Greg Stoner, vice president of marketing, Metrowerks. "The CodeWarrior tool will help speed the applications' time to market, which in turn will help the iDEN handsets become more valuable."
iDEN handsets operate on integrated wireless networks, including Nextel's nationwide all-digital network. The new Motorola platform offers Nextel and other iDEN operators the opportunity to provide new capabilities. "Nextel looks forward to offering a host of new standalone and server-based applications to our mobile customers," said Tom Kelly, executive vice president marketing and strategic planning for Nextel. "These applications can help boost business productivity and provide new information options, no matter where they are on the Nextel National Network."
Motorola's first handset to use the new multiple communication and computing platform is expected to ship by the end of this year.
[ Home | Contact | MobiChat | Experts database | Let's do it ]
Comments to the content of this page can be posted on the MobiChat discussion group