Siemens, Java technology

Siemens is committed to working with developers and operators to bring Java wireless technology to the mobile phone market. An extensive program for developers is available on Siemens' Web site www.siemens.com/mobile-partners and a long-standing relationship with Sun Microsystems, the founding developer of Java platform, has ensured Siemens is at the forefront of this technology.

Siemens presented its first device to incorporate Java wireless technology - the SL45i -at CommunicAsia 2001 and then followed this with the launch of its first mass market Java phone - M50 - at CeBIT 2002.

Siemens recognises that Java technology gives users freedom and enables them to express their individuality, through a choice of applications and is confident that this technology will quickly gain advocates and support throughout the market. This is an exciting development for the world of wireless communication and Siemens is well placed to confidently lead the industry.

Consumers now have access to a greater and more sophisticated range of information on the move than ever before and with the advent of transmission technologies such as HSCSD and GPRS, this information is now also fast and reliable.

Despite the developments in this sector, there is an increasing need for flexibility and personalisation, as consumers look to differentiate themselves through the applications they use. The Java platform rises to this challenge and promises to further the evolution of wireless communication by bringing choice and control to both operators and consumers.

Java technology is an open standard computer language that provides a universal platform for scalable computing and is based on the idea that the same software should run on many different kinds of computers, consumer gadgets and devices.

The potential of this technology is huge and much of the excitement revolves around Java's ability to work on any device containing a computer chip. Thereby, the technology allows the most up-to-date software to be run on the oldest computers and removes the restriction of particular software packages and the need for upgrades.

There are unique benefits for Java-enabled mobile devices and the introduction of this technology to this segment is set to herald more freedom and control for consumers, developers and operators alike.

The Java platform works alongside existing technology, complementing and enhancing performance whilst enabling tasks to be completed efficiently and securely. The implementation of Java technology in wireless devices is driven by the five factors outlined below:

* Personalisation: For the first time, consumers will be able to choose from a selection of applications offered by operators, to tailor the device to their lifestyle and achieve the ultimate in personalisation. Original content will also be available from manufacturers, on independent Internet sites and from developers. It is this level of flexibility and choice that promises to make Java technology a success.

* Cross-platform compatibility: Java technology allows applications to be written once, yet run on a variety of devices, independent of the underlying operating system. This offers increased flexibility to all and benefits the market.

* Enhanced user experience: Entertainment applications can be written using Java technology, with richer graphics and faster interaction. Examples include downloadable city maps, games that use the vibrate option as you play and interactive bidding for concert tickets. Applications can also be shared with friends via SMS and interactive games can be played across networks. These applications can also take advantage of the improved wireless infrastructure that GPRS brings but Java technology enables such applications to be used on the existing GSM network.

* Disconnected access: Java applications can run when a phone is disconnected or out of the coverage area. This enables users to continue composing their message or searching a database while offline and for synchronisation to occur at a later stage.

* Security: Java technology also introduces a new level of security to the wireless world as the technology protects the device, allowing M-banking and handling of secure information to be safer than ever before.

Java wireless technology benefits consumers, operators and developers alike and this collective interest in the success of this technology promises sustained growth, allowing the entire industry to develop. Enhanced information, graphics and interaction will become a reality for consumers and this in turn will extend the growth of the wireless communications market.

Java wireless technology enables consumers to have choice and control and to achieve true personalization by selecting applications most appropriate to their needs and lifestyle.

On wireless devices, there are two ways of downloading new applications. They can either be loaded straight onto the device by visiting WAP sites and using an over-the-air download (OTA) technique. Or the customer can download an application from the Internet onto your PC and transfer it via data cable or infrared link to his phone. New applications can then be shared with friends via SMS and interactive games can be played across networks.

Java wireless technology offers operators the opportunity to target consumers more effectively by tailoring packages to meet specific needs. The download of applications can be initiated by simply sending a SMS to consumers. Alternatively applications can also be distributed via Internet, CD-ROM or MultiMediaCard.

Java's flexibility and compatibility represents an opportunity for developers as the platform independence allows programming to be completed once and applied to a range of mechanisms without modification, saving time and money and allowing developers to expand their market.