Java ME

Overview

Java Platform, Micro Edition or Java ME is a platform designed for embedded systems (mobile devices are one kind of such systems). It was created by Sun Microsystems, now owned by Oracle Corporation. Java ME was designed by Sun Microsystems as a replacement for PersonalJava, a similar technology used in the past by the company. It was designed to be a more flexible and robust solution, allowing developers to create applications for a wide range of devices, from small sensors to mobile phones.

History

Java ME was first released by Sun Microsystems in 1999. It was initially called Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME). The platform was designed to provide a robust, flexible environment for applications running on mobile and other embedded devices—mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), TV set-top boxes, and printers. In 2013, after the acquisition of Sun Microsystems by Oracle Corporation, the platform was renamed to Java Platform, Micro Edition (Java ME).

Architecture

Java ME's architecture consists of layers that include the configuration layer, the profile layer, and the optional package layer. The configuration layer is the base layer that provides a set of libraries and a virtual machine. The profile layer is built on top of the configuration layer and provides high-level APIs for application development. The optional package layer provides additional APIs for features such as multimedia handling and access to secure network protocols.

Configurations

Java ME includes two configurations: the Connected Limited Device Configuration (CLDC) and the Connected Device Configuration (CDC). The CLDC is designed for devices with limited resources such as mobile phones and PDAs. The CDC is designed for more capable devices such as TV set-top boxes and residential gateways.

Profiles

Java ME includes several profiles, each of which addresses a specific type of device:

• Mobile Information Device Profile (MIDP)
• Information Module Profile (IMP)
• Personal Profile
• Personal Basis Profile

Development

Java ME applications are developed using the Java language and can be run on any Java ME-compliant device. Developers can use a variety of development tools, including the Java ME Software Development Kit (SDK) provided by Oracle, and third-party tools such as Eclipse and NetBeans.

Applications

Java ME has been used to develop thousands of applications for devices such as mobile phones, PDAs, TV set-top boxes, and printers. These applications range from games and utilities to business applications and educational software.

Limitations and Criticisms

Despite its widespread use, Java ME has been criticized for its fragmented market, which has resulted in a lack of standardization among devices. This has made it difficult for developers to create applications that work consistently across all Java ME devices.

Future

Despite these challenges, Java ME continues to be a popular platform for developing embedded applications. Oracle has continued to update and improve the platform, and it remains a key part of Oracle's Internet of Things (IoT) strategy.

See Also

• Java (programming language)
• Embedded system
• Internet of Things

A mobile device displaying a Java ME application.

A mobile device displaying a Java ME application.