Matsushita, Sun Ink Consumer Electronics Java MoU
newsbytes.com
15 Dec 1998, 3:47 AM CST
By Martyn Williams, Newsbytes.
TOKYO, JAPAN,
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd. [TOKYO:6752], better
known by its Panasonic brand name, has signed a
memorandum of understanding with Sun Microsystems Inc.
[NASDAQ:SUNW] to develop Java technology for use in
consumer electronics.
The joint development work will focus on network-aware
consumer electronics products - a new breed of home
multimedia product that is designed to interact with other
devices through a domestic network. Typically, these will
include audio-visual appliances, such as televisions and CD
players, and communications equipment, such as
telephones and mobile computers, but could also include
traditional appliances, such as air conditioners.
Under the terms of the MoU, the partners will work on
development of a common Java API (application
programming interface) and its adaptation to the Java
platform for digital TV products. The document also includes
a licensing agreement for Sun's PersonalJava and plans to
test a smaller version of Java for use in digital audio-video
equipment and home appliances.
In a company statement, Mark Tolliver, president of Sun's
Consumer and Embedded Division called the MoU "a pivotal
point in the adoption of Java technology in the consumer and
embedded market."
For Matsushita, Kazuhiko Sugiyama, executive vice
president, said, "Adaptation of Java technology will help
Matsushita to develop and deliver a new breed of digital
consumer appliances that allow consumers to exploit the
benefits of the network."
He added, "Today's announcement is a first step towards
broader collaboration with Sun Microsystems."
Reported By Newsbytes News Network,
newsbytes.com
03:47 CST
(19981215/WIRES ASIA, NETWORK, PC, BUSINESS/) |
