Sun Brings True Interactivity to the World Wide Web

Java Programming Language gives Internet CD-ROM Functionality, Augmenting Sun's Web Publishing Offerings

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. -- May 23, 1995 -- Sun Microsystems, Inc. today announced the Java language, a revolutionary new object-oriented programming environment for the Internet, and the HotJava browser, a dynamic World Wide Web tool based on the Java language that gives users the responsiveness and rich media of a CD-ROM and the infinite extensibility and reach of the Internet.

The technologies are aimed at programmers who wish to develop new publishing and interactive multi-media applications for the Internet. Rounding out Sun's Web publishing offerings are a series of server products, including the Netra i 2.0 server.

The Java language, the result of several years of research and development at Sun Microsystems, is the first language to provide a comprehensive solution to the challenges of programming for the Internet, providing portability, security, advanced networking and robustness without compromising performance.

The HotJava browser uses the Java language to expand the capabilities of current browsers by allowing the downloading of small software programs. Instead of simply reading pages, HotJava browser users execute computer applications on their screens, so they can interact with multimedia applications in real-time.

A number of companies have announced plans to integrate the Java technology and HotJava dynamic browser into new applications they will develop for the Internet.

Using the Java language, developers can create dynamic Web browsers or extend current Web browsers to include such applications as interactive 3-D product demonstrations, live stock portfolio management, multiuser games and up-to-the-second sports information.

Toshiba's Advanced Technology Division, based in Tokyo, Japan, is working with the Java language for online interactive publishing applications. "I think that Java is poised to deliver the necessary tools for next-generation electronic publishing," said Dr. Nakamura Kawada, general manager of the division. "This promising technology will enable active document delivery over the Internet and is a major leap forward from HTML and the World Wide Web."

Starwave, Inc., of Seattle, is currently developing on-line services using the technology. "Java will allow Starwave to give consumers dynamic online applications that are not limited to just text, low-quality audio, video or illustrations," said Patrick Naughton, vice president of technology. "We will be able to continually set exciting standards of interactivity and diverse quality content with our services." (See accompanying developer reference document for additional endorsements.)

The Java language gives HotJava users the power to develop small, specialized software applications, or "applets," to distribute over the Internet with the click of a button. Instead of simply down- loading text and images, the HotJava browser downloads Java applets, which run on the user's machine. The HotJava environment is infused with multiple layers of security features that verify information as well as protecting against viruses and tampering. HotJava provides file- access protection to prevent system corruption and ensures that downloaded code can be used only for its stated purpose. Authentication and encryption security features based on public-key encryption will be provided as well.

"HotJava empowers us to create the Internet site our clients have been fantasizing about. It provides integrated sound and animation coupled with the ability to build a truly interactive experience. Hot Java is transforming the Web into an exciting new medium," said Karl Jacob of Dimension X, a company that creates online "virtual worlds" entertainment-based advertising.

Available for free over the Internet

The HotJava beta release, available in late summer 1995, will include a bundled WYSIWYG Web page builder, and integration with third- party authoring tools, making it easy for non- programmers to create compelling, interactive home pages.

Netscape Servers

With revenues in excess of $5 billion, Sun Microsystems, Inc., is a world leader in the design, manufacture and sale of open network computing products and services, including workstations and servers, microprocessor and application-specific IC design, system software, networking products, professional service and support and aftermarket- ing services. The company's SPARC workstations, multiprocessing servers, SPARC microprocessors, Solaris operating software and UNIX service organization each rank No. 1 in the UNIX industry. Founded in 1982, Sun is headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., and employs more than 13,000 employees in 32 offices worldwide.

Sun, the Sun logo, Sun Microsystems, The Network is the Computer, Netra, SunOS, Solaris, Java and HotJava are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. All SPARC trademarks, including the SCD Compliant logo, are trademarks or registered trademarks of SPARC International, Inc. is licensed exclusively to Sun Microsystems, Inc. Products bearing SPARC trademarks are based on an architecture developed by Sun Microsystems, Inc. UNIX is a registered trademark in the United States and other countries, licensed through X/Open Company, Ltd. All other product or service names mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners.

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