Sun Delivers Next Version of the Java Platform

Java™ 2 Brand Unveiled

NEW YORK CITY December 8, 1998 - Sun Microsystems, Inc. today announced the availability of the Java 2 platform, the next release of the core Java technology (formerly code-named "JDK 1.2"). The Java 2 platform is the definitive environment for enterprises aiming to build and install web-centric software applications that can run on a variety of computers, servers and other computing devices. The new release provides significant performance improvements, a new, flexible security model and a complete set of Applications Programming Interfaces (APIs).

The Java 2 platform provides software programmers with the speed, security and functionality that make it easier than ever to create interoperable, mission-critical enterprise applications. The Java 2 platform is widely supported by the industry and is being endorsed by hundreds of industry-leading companies worldwide (see quote addendum).

"Java 2 is the ultimate platform for businesses competing in the networked economy," said Alan Baratz, president of Java Software at Sun Microsystems, Inc. "Representing a major release of the Java technology, the Java 2 platform provides the competitive advantage businesses need to leverage, protect and easily expand upon existing investments. With the Java 2 platform, companies can streamline business processes, take advantage of new types of business opportunities and compete in entirely new ways."

Developed in collaboration with the industry, the Java 2 platform represents the input of close to 200 Java software licensees as well as tens of thousands of Java technology developers.

"The new platform is truly the result of a unique partnership between Sun and the industry," Baratz continued. "Sun's participative development process enabled us to harness the energy and expertise of the industry to produce a powerful, `best-of-breed' Java platform efficiently and rapidly. The Java 2 platform is the model for technology development in a world of rapid change."

The Java 2 platform is available for immediate download at http://java.sun.com/products/jdk. See attached summary for details on the new features of the Java 2 platform.

JAVA 2 PLATFORM NEW FEATURES SUMMARY

The Java 2 platform provides a more flexible security model, powerful performance enhancements, interoperability with other enterprise systems, easier application development, improved globalization and even more consistent cross-platform deployment.

The new features of the Java 2 platform include:

For a comprehensive list of features and more information regarding Java 2 technologies, visit http://java.sun.com/products/jdk.

About Sun Microsystems, Inc.

Since its inception in 1982, a singular vision, "The Network Is The Computer™," has propelled Sun Microsystems, Inc. (NASDAQ: SUNW), to its position as a leading provider of high quality hardware, software and services for establishing enterprise-wide intranets and expanding the power of the Internet. With more than $10 billion in annual revenues, Sun can be found in more than 150 countries and on the World Wide Web at http://www.sun.com.

For reader inquiries about Sun's Java products and programs, call (888) 843-5282; (512) 434-1591 for international callers.

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