Download Java Applications

What Are Java Applications?

Before we get started, perhaps we should clarify exactly what Java is and where it came from. Granted, most people associate the word with a cup of coffee, or perhaps the major Indonesian island, but Java here refers to a computer software platform developed by Sun Microsystems. The whole of the products and specifications is commonly referred to as the "Java technology." This is the same Java that you find on several websites that you may visit on a daily basis, except it has now been adapted for several other applications, most notably for us is the cell phone.

Java's two primary competitors in the mobile application arena are Symbian (found in several Nokia smartphones) and BREW (managed by Qualcomm).

Because Java applications can be developed and sold without paying a royalty, it enjoys a very significant market penetration. Add to this that even the cheapest (new) entry-level handsets on the market can run Java applications (for the most part), and you'll see just how widespread Java applications are. For example, many of the games that come preloaded on your cell phone -- like Tom Clancy's Rainbox Six 3 seen above running on a Motorola V600 -- are powered by Java technology.

More Than Just Games

While much of the focus in the industry for Java-based cell phone applications comes from video games -- we all can't help from wasting away our time playing Bejeweled or any number of other cell phone games -- there is much more out there for you to enjoy. For example, the XM Satellite radio feature found on select Telus Mobility cell phones (Telus Mobile Radio, Powered by XM Canada) is actually a Java application. Taking a short visit through Java's official website will unearth several applications for your mobile handset.

Sure, you could check out Dragon Island, "a game for true heroes", but if you want to find your way around town, you can opt for Mobile GMaps, for example.

Download Some Fun and Functionality

In all, Sun Microsystems has outlined no fewer than six different categories for their mobile Java applications:

• Communication & Productivity - like Mobile Checkbook 3.0 to make personal accounting easy (and portable)
• Education - like Crack English Series to improve your grammar
• Just for Fun - like IGN Mobile for gaming news and more
• Maps & Travel - like MapQuest Mobile for portable directions
• Sports - like Fox Sports Mobile, keeping you up-to-date in the world of sports
• Virtual Friends - like Mobile Pet Dog, a virtual pet