After almost one year after the announcement of the Java Card 3.0, Sun finally releases it!
Java Card technology enables smart cards and other devices with very limited memory to run small applications, that employ Java technology. It provides smart card manufacturers with a secure and interoperable execution platform that can store and update multiple applications on a single device.
Deployed in markets as diverse as Telecommunications (SIM applications), Finance (EMV) and Citizen ID (Passports and ID Cards), Java Card technology is the most pervasive open platform for secure devices, with over 3.5 Billion Java Powered smart cards deployed worldwide.
Sun Microsystems has now released the latest specifications of its market leading Java Card technology, and industry experts believe it will revolutionize the way smart card services are conceived and deployed.
Next Generation Java Card technology will be available in two separate, yet coherent editions.
Java Card technology, Classic Edition is based on an evolution of the Java Card Platform, Version 2.2.2 and targets more resource-constrained devices that support traditional applet-based applications. It introduces several incremental changes to the previous version to ensure alignment with smart card and security standards.
Java Card technology, Connected Edition features a significantly enhanced execution environment and a new virtual machine. It includes new network-oriented features, such as support for web applications, and support for applets with extended and advanced capabilities.
Both Editions are compatible with applications written for previous versions. They also share key security features and build on the trust and expertise derived from ten years of deploying secure Java Card products.
The specifications can be downloaded from here.
