ThinAirApps LLC today announced the release of the Wireless SDK for ThinAir Server, which will enable software companies, service providers and corporate developers to wirelessly enable any application.
The Wireless SDK for ThinAir Server allows Java(TM) technology developers to create secure, real-time communication between almost any wireless device and any applications that access ODBC and JDBC enabled databases, XML documents and Microsoft Outlook and Lotus Notes forms. Examples of applications that could be built include order placement, inventory tracking, customer information, messaging and mobile commerce. Currently, Palm III, V, or VII(TM) handhelds, Pocket PC's, Internet-enabled mobile phones, and RIM(R) interactive pagers are supported by the SDK.
Developers using the SDK are spared from having to become experts in each device's operating system, programming or markup language and network protocols. When applications are deployed to run on ThinAir Server, the server detects the device making the request and handles the specific rendering and user control requirements for that device. Developers also benefit from features of ThinAir Server, such as user profile management, to track usage behavior and enforce permission and security policies. The distributable architecture platform also allows for highly scalable, redundant deployments in complex network and firewall configurations. Since ThinAir Server is based entirely on the Java programming language, it can be deployed on a wide variety of operating systems.
"Companies are now realizing that a wireless strategy is essential in order to stay competitive," said Nathan Freitas, chief technology officer for ThinAirApps. "We're providing a set of tools that makes it possible for any organization -- not just wireless experts -- to deploy wireless applications on their own."
One company that has benefited from the rapid development of multiple device support made possible by the ThinAir SDK is Juno Online Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: JWEB). Juno AirSM, a free PQA for Juno subscribers to access their e-mail from Palm VII handhelds was launched in April. When Juno was ready to widen support to include Internet-enabled mobile phones and interactive pagers, the earlier effort was leveraged so that the new applications were delivered in a matter of weeks. "We have experienced first-hand the speed of development and deployment that the ThinAir SDK facilitates," stated Bruce Zenel, Juno's vice president responsible for the ThinAirApps integration project. "As a result we've been able to quickly expand our offerings to wireless devices, enabling our users to have access to Juno wherever they are using the Internet."
Juno deployed ThinAir Server and its custom application on systems running the Solaris(TM) Operating Environment.
"The rapid development cycle inherent in a Java-technology based SDK, combined with the reliable Solaris Operating Environment platform, makes this a powerful solution for wireless communication among standards-based applications," said Nasser Iravani, group manager, Mobile Wireless Market Development at Sun Microsystems, Inc. "Developing a solution based entirely on Java technology to wirelessly enable applications is an important component in helping customers move to a standards-based mobile infrastructure. ThinAir Apps is clearly headed in the right direction."
MobileLogic (http://www.mobilelogic.com) recently announced that it has partnered with ThinAirApps to take advantage of the ThinAir Server and ThinAir SDK. "We thoroughly researched the wide range of wireless software vendors and chose ThinAirApps for the tools and solid platform that enables us to build high value applications for our customers," said Don Bergal, vice president of product development at MobileLogic. "Our business customers use all types of wireless devices and require access to diverse applications and the ThinAir SDK allows us to excel in the rapid delivery of solutions."
The basic Wireless SDK for ThinAir Server, including documentation and sample code, is currently available for evaluation and can be downloaded for free from the ThinAirApps Web site (http://www.thinairapps.com). The ThinAir Server platform, on which any application built using the SDK runs, is also available from the ThinAirApps Web site for a free 30-day, 5-user evaluation.
Following the evaluation, potential customers can either license ThinAir Server commercially or purchase a developer server license. Advanced application libraries for the SDK will be made available at an additional cost.
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