The latest version of Sun Microsystems' Java Card technology, version 2.2, is set to enhance the industry's open and secure standard for multi-application smart cards.
The latest release features new technologies for easier programming of Java Card applications and improved interoperability of applications on smart cards from different vendors.
"With this new version, developers and card manufacturers will be able to add significant - value add - applications, more easily and securely," comments Peter Castle, senior systems engineer: Java at Sun Microsystems SA.
Java Card version 2.2 enhancements includes Java Card RMI - which allows developers to design applications more easily by enabling the use of Java for both the card and the terminal.
Added to this, version 2.2 features advanced support for wireless standards, providing users with more interoperable services through logical channel support requested by standards organisations such as European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), Third Generation Partner Projects (3GPP) and WAP.
Comments Castle: "Java Card's multi-application functionality sees support for various applications which can be run on a Java Card or delivered to another card that uses the advanced support for wireless standards."
In addition, Java Card version 2.1 applications will run smoothly on version 2.2 without any modifications, thereby ensuring an easy transition for scores of applications available on millions of Java Card technology-enabled smart cards.
Java Card technology is currently deployed worldwide, with American Express and Visa having adopted it as the platform of choice for the development of their smart card applications.
Global government agencies issuing smart cards based on Java Card technology include America's Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of Defense. The Taiwanese government will also deploy the technology in smart cards as part of its health insurance identification programme.
For more on Sun's Java Card version 2.2 enhancements, go to http://java.sun.com/javacard.
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