Mobile Java development allows for the creation of applications for handheld devices using the Java programming language. Its portability has led to its popularity and the ability to run on any hardware. Special considerations must be taken into account for mobile platforms, but it provides opportunities for independent developers. The concept has led to the emergence of hobbyist programmers who distribute their software through application download centers.
The Java® programming language was released in 1995 with original development beginning in 1991. The development language has many key areas of use, including online or Internet applications and applications designed to run on handheld devices. Mobile Java® development is the process of creating applications using the Java® programming language specifically for mobile and handheld devices, such as cell phones, modern music players, and personal organizers.
Pieces of software developed in the Java® programming language have the ability to run on any hardware such as platform, or operating system, since the software is actually embedded in the language itself. This portability has led to the marketing of the language as “write once, run anywhere” software. Software designed to be used within a web browser is known as an applet, a functional name used to describe the program as a small application. Software packages created by mobile Java® development are commonly known as apps, a short form of the term application.
The programming language’s ability to create software that will run on any hardware has led to a large increase in mobile Java® development. Smartphones and organizers, along with other feature-rich cell phones, contain a large number of individual applications for specific functionality. Modern phones offer the ability to download and install new Java® applications from online stores, such as Apple’s App Store for high-end iPhone and iPod devices and the Android Marketplace for devices running Google’s Android operating system .
The term mobile Java® development is simply descriptive for the development of Java-based software applications designed specifically to run on mobile hardware. Special considerations that must be taken into account when programming applications for mobile platforms include screen size, control methods, and integration into the form factor of the devices on which the program can be installed. Java® application development for mobile devices is not limited to major software houses as it also provides a platform for independent and novice Java® developers.
The development of Mobile Java® has led to the re-emergence of so-called “bedroom programmers”. Using the programming language provides any programmer or hobbyist developer with the opportunity to distribute their software through application download centers. Several independent programmers have embraced the concept of mobile Java® development as a means to distribute their software and ideas across a managed marketplace. These hobbyists, actively developing software applications for mobile devices, will likely provide longevity to the hardware and concept of developing Java® software applications for mobile devices.
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