Aggressive Plan for new Handheld Device Leads to the use of Sun Microsystems PersonalJava technology to provide a flexible framework to develop unique, powerful Handheld applications for wireless communication, mobile entertainment and multimedia SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. June 4, 2001 Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of innovative products and core technologies in electronics, today previewed a prototype of a new device integrated with Sun Microsystems PersonalJava technology. To attract application development for its new Java(tm) technology-based platform, Sharp is demonstrating prototypes of the device at the JavaOne(sm) Conference, held June 4-8 in the Moscone Center in San Francisco, Booth #613.
The prototype device incorporates next generation features and applications such as: Unique integrated sliding keyboard for effortless email communication High-speed processor Supporting multimedia and robust imaging applications Color screen Sharp reflective color QVGA screen for indoor/outdoor use CF and SD expansion slots Supports wireless communications, network connectivity, digital camera imaging and memory expansion Flash ROM memory Allows flexible platform development Multimedia capabilities Robust platform for multimedia application development The new PDA device combined with the PersonalJava technology represents a next step in handheld computing power and application development potential. Sharp Corporation, the largest maker of handheld devices in Japan, has previously stated that in the Fall 2001 it intends to market a new series of Java technology-based handheld devices on a global basis and is currently distributing a Java technology-based add-on to its MI-E1 device in Japan. Sharp is seeking global leadership among business users and consumers through the rapid development of Java-based application software for communications, entertainment, multimedia and mobile business applications.
The Java programming language is gaining wider acceptance among computer makers and software developers for its versatility, power, and distribution. We decided that the operating environment we plan to use must be as powerfully rich as our new hardware device, said Hiroshi Uno, general manager, Mobile Systems Division, Sharp Corporation, Japan. In order to support our global strategic objectives, Sharp chose the PersonalJava application environment. It is not only rich in development resources, but it also has the power, flexibility and scalability for future multi-platform device development. We intend to be aggressive in combining PersonalJava technology with Sharp's user interface technology and core devices, particularly LCDs, to develop powerful new handheld products in wireless communication, data integration, multimedia, and PIM-based applications. In turn, we expect that the Java developer community will be inspired to pioneer creative applications. The PersonalJava technology was created specifically for network-enabled consumer devices, such as Sharps PDA device, to enable interactive applications and services, said Rich Green, vice president and general manager, Java Software, Sun Microsystems. Sharps decision to use PersonalJava technology for its next-generation handheld devices showcases its flexibility, security, and ease of programming that will empower developers to create compelling applications that can take advantage of the hardware characteristics of Sharps handheld devices.
The Sharp prototype PDA incorporates a new high-speed Java technology-based Engine development by the Tao Group. Tao has developed intentÒ, a binary portable, language independent, high performance, multimedia platform. This new Java technology-based engine will drive applications at speeds that will run much faster than todays wireless and handheld computing devices. This is very exciting, said Francis Charig, Chairman of Tao, Sharp is enabling an efficient and robust solution making the next generation of handheld devices meet the demands of consumers. Tao is proud to be at the core of the cutting edge of a development that promises to be revolutionary. Conference Promotion for Java One AttendeesAt the JavaOne Conference Sharp will offer an attendee special to Conference attendees. If the developer registers on the Sharp Developer web site (http://developer.sharpsec.com) during the trade show period, Sharp will offer a special developer device to the first 1,000 qualified registered Java developers at a JavaOne Conference price of $399. The developer device will be available in September and at that time Sharp will notify the 1,000 qualified registered developers. Attendees can register at the Sharp Booth #613 in the Moscone Center.
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