New and Noteworthy

New and Noteworthy

This chapter lists high-profile features in these releases.

Java Deprecation

As of the release of Java for Mac OS X 10.6 Update 3, the Java runtime ported by Apple and that ships with Mac OS X is deprecated. Developers should not rely on the Apple-supplied Java runtime being present in future versions of Mac OS X.

The Java runtime shipping in Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard, and Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard, will continue to be supported and maintained through the standard support cycles of those products.

Third Party JVM Support and Locations

Java Preferences now shows all discovered JVMs in a single list in the General tab. This list shows the name, vendor, architecture, and full version of each JVM (8146434). It also coalesces multiple versions of the same major platform version from the same vendor and architecture into the same line. Clicking on the version at the end of the line shows a popup menu which chooses between these multiple versions.

Java SE 6 Locations

The location of the Java SE 6 runtime home has changed to/System/Library/Java/JavaVirtualMachines/1.6.0.jdk/Contents/Home. JDK bundles provided via the Developer package, developer previews, and 3rd party JVMs should be installed in/Library/Java/JavaVirtualMachines or ~/Library/Java/JavaVirtualMachines. Developer previews of Java can now be installed and uninstalled without affecting the system JVM(s).

Java IDEs

In testing, some Java IDEs have shown problems navigating into the new JDK bundle structure, and persisting the location of the new JDK bundles. Some IDEs may have to change how they prompt users to locate a JVM on Mac OS X, and should ideally present a list of JVMs generated from /usr/libexec/java_home --xml, which outputs each discovered JVM, and orders them according to the user's order in Java Preferences.

Developer Package

The Java Developer package now supersedes the Java Documentation package (3672275). The developer package contains a copy of the Java SE 6 JDK bundle with all JavaDoc and source jars included inside of it. The Java Developer package also contains documentation for the Java tools in /usr/share/java, such as Ant, Maven, JUnit, and Derby. If you do JNI development, you must install the Java Developer package, since it contains updated headers for the native JavaVM.framework and its sub-frameworks (8421130). The Java Developer package is available from http://connect.apple.com.

Redesigned eAWT

The com.apple.eawt.Application class has undergone a significant redesign of basic Mac event handling (4083709, 4623624, 4714211, 5445495, et al.). Most of the operations handled by ApplicationListeners are now processed by a single delegate handler:

• setAboutHandler(AboutHandler)
• setPreferencesHandler(PreferencesHandler)
• setQuitHandler(QuitHandler)
• setOpenFileHandler(OpenFilesHandler)
• setOpenURIHandler(OpenURIHandler)
• setPrintFileHandler(PrintFilesHandler)

You can also register multiple listeners for each of these listeners with theaddAppEventListener(AppEventListener) method:

• AppForegroundListener
• AppHiddenListener
• AppReOpenedListener
• ScreenSleepListener
• SystemSleepListener
• UserSessionListener

The JavaDoc for all of the Apple Java extensions (including the eAWT) is present in the appledocs.jar file of the Developer .jdk bundle in /Library/Java/JavaVirtualMachines.

Sudden Termination

Java applications on Mac OS X 10.6 can now opt-in to being suddenly terminated by the OS to speed log-out and shut down. Apps can raise and lower their sudden termination count with the enableSuddenTermination() anddisableSuddenTermination() methods on the com.apple.eawt.Application class. More information on Sudden Termination is available in NSProcessInfo Class Reference. (5756768)

Default Quit Action

Applications can now request that the eAWT send WindowClosing events to all open windows instead of callingSystem.exit(0) when the user choose Quit from the application menu. By setting the apple.eawt.quitStrategysystem property to CLOSE_ALL_WINDOWS, the eAWT will send a close event to every window in back-to-front order (3198576).

Improved Garbage Collection vs. Virtual Memory Paging BehaviorIn Java SE 6 on Mac OS X 10.6, a new optimization has been enabled that prevents garbage-only heap pages from paging out to disk when the system is under memory pressure. It should improve overall system responsiveness when switching between apps, because Java will not be spending time paging heap pages with only garbage to disk (2830171).

RIM Releases New BlackBerry Java SDK

RIM Releases New BlackBerry Java SDK  Research in Motion (RIM) recently released the beta version of BlackBerry Java SDK v7.0 for public consumption.  The release follows the company's announcement of BlackBerry 7 at last month's BlackBerry World 2011 Conference in Orlando.  As expected, the beta version comes packed with plenty of new features for developers looking to fine tune their applications.  As the news was leaked of upcoming RIM releases in the form of the BlackBerry Bold 9900 and the Bold 9930, the timing of Java SDK v7.0 beta could not be better.  Developers eager to create apps for the two new mobile platforms will be able to do so, as the new version of the SDK comes equipped with testing simulators for both phones.  In addition to the testing capabilities of the SDK, there's more good news for app developers with the Bold 9900 and 9930 on their mind, as the BlackBerry App World is accepting new application submissions for both smartphones.   Beyond the features centering on development for the Bold 9900 and 9930, BlackBerry Java SDK v7.0 has much more to offer its users when it comes to new features and upgrades.  As far as user interface enhancements are concerned, the Send Menu API can now be used to add a Send menu item to your app's menu, which allows users to content from the application they are using to another person using a different application on a BlackBerry device.  Other user interface upgrades include certain command framework enhancements, the ability to layer UI elements and  scan images for barcode data, 32-bit color bitmap creation, and more. The area of application integration has received plenty of attention with the beta release as well, with magnetometer APIs being just one of the highlights.  The Compass application has been added to give users the ability to specify destinations through Magnetometer APIs and BlackBerry Maps.  The Unified Search API has been improved, and search results can now be categorized.  Media file identification has also been added. Utilities enhancements include the addition of the Multi Service Platform API, which supports BlackBerry Enterprise Server's BlackBerry Balance feature.  Enterprise Server admins have been given the power to control the access to work data and more, thanks to capabilities that allow them to set IT policy rules that distinguish between work and personal data. BlackBerry Java SDK v7.0 beta also offers plenty of improvements regarding location-based services.  The Dynamic Mappable framework is one dynamic mapping enhancement that allows users to create locations on a map and specify if they need to be updated.  Styles for mappable items can be defined, and custom shape creation has been integrated too.  Departure time estimation, MapField and MapAction enhancements, and the compass overlay integration are also worth mentioning. Last, but not least, are the beta version's Near field communication (NFC) features that help with the creation of mobile payment and e-commerce solutions.  Users can read and write data on smart tags, emulate them, access a Secure Element on a BlackBerry device or SIM card, connect with smart accessories such as a smart dock or wireless headset, and more.

Qoppa Software's New Release of Java PDF Components and Libraries Adds Annotation Groups and Viewing of Any Size PDF File

Qoppa Software's latest Java PDF components and libraries include annotation groups and unlimited file size access across all major operating environments, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and web-based.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) April 27, 2011

Atlanta, GA April 22 2011 - Qoppa Software, a leading provider of PDF solutions, announces the general release of their new PDF libraries and components. The new version of Qoppa’s developer products continues the decade long tradition of Qoppa Software delivering tools for integration within web-based and java applications to quickly and reliably add PDF document capabilities such as viewing, printing, signing, form filling, markup and manipulation.

jPDFViewer, Qoppa’s Java component to display PDF documents, as well as jPDFPrint, Qoppa’s Java library to print PDF documents, now offer support for unlimited PDF file sizes as well as a faster document loading time.

“These improvements are possible thanks to the implementation of a new PDF source which accesses the PDF content directly from the files instead of having to load the contents into memory.” explains Gerald Holmann, Qoppa Software CEO

jPDFNotes, Qoppa’s Java component to display, mark up and sign PDF documents, now offers full support for group annotations. Grouped annotations can be copied, moved, deleted, reviewed or flattened at once.

Performance has also been improved in Qoppa’s PDF engine, especially when rendering graphical documents with transparency. Users in the graphics and pre-press industry may enjoy faster processing times, in some cases up to 5 times faster, when printing and displaying such documents.

ABOUT QOPPA SOFTWARE

Qoppa Software specializes in the development of high-end libraries and applications to work with PDF documents. Qoppa Software offers a suite of products that cover every aspect of PDF processes and integrate seamlessly into document work flows, including end-user, server, and PDF library products. Qoppa’s products are carefully designed and developed to provide the highest level of performance and reliability

# # #

New Red Programming Language Gets Syllable Backend

 New Red Programming Language Gets Syllable Backend


There's a new REBOL like programming language in town. It's called Red, it's BSD licensedand contrary to REBOL and Boron, Red is a compiled language. The Syllable project is proud to announce that Red programs now run on Syllable Desktop. Here is a screenshotfrom a demo program. Syllable is the third Red target platform, after Windows and Linux.
Red was introduced at the REBOL & Boron conference in the Netherlands in February by its creator Nenad Rakocevic from Paris, previously of Cheyenne fame. The project is less than half a year old and has been public for a mere three months, but the first phase of the language, the design and implementation of the Red/System dialect is already nearing completion. It will be presented at theCht'i RUG 2011 in Lille, France. If you are in time for the conference, you can follow it live on Twitter.
Red's name hints at its goal to offer a reduced REBOL dialect that is suitable for compilation, while still being as much like REBOL as possible. The new language is currently being bootstrapped in an ingenious way. The demo program is not written in Red yet, but in Red/System, yet another REBOL like dialect. Red/System is a low level language comparable to C, with similar capabilities. It will be used in the next phase to implement the higher level Red language.
Red was ported to Syllable in a collaboration with the REBOL community. Syllable Desktop has its own in-kernel ELF loader. Red has its own ELF executable format emitter. At first they didn't match, because both try to be lean and don't implement the full ELF specification. Syllable always generates its own program executables as Position Independent Code, as if they were shared libraries. As such, Syllable expects all binaries to have section headers. Red's backend doesn't support PIC yet and didn't strictly need section headers. Andreas Bolka implemented them for Syllable and for the coming PIC implementation in Red. He also implemented proper address alignment, which Syllable requires more strictly than the GNU loader on Linux. Finally, the starting address of the generated binaries was moved to Syllable's user address space, and an embedded kernel syscall was adapted.
Red/System already has several interesting properties. It is a complete compiler toolchain, including a native code generator and a static linker. It is tiny and does not need the huge GCC or even the GNU linker. The LLVM JIT compiler infrastructure was considered, but also deemed unsuitable due to its bloat. The compiler is currently written in REBOL 2, which means it must be run on one of theREBOL 2 platforms: Linux, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, Mac or Windows. However, Red/System can trivially be used as a cross-compiler, so Syllable programs can now be cross-developed from those platforms. Once the Red language is implemented, the compiler will be ported from REBOL to Red. It will then also run on Syllable itself, and it will be possible to use Syllable to cross-develop for other Red platforms. Eventually, a JIT compiler will be added, opening even more possibilities with dynamic compilation.
The goal of the compiler is to reach performance on par with the best JavaScript JIT compilers. Currently, only an x86 code generator is implemented, but the design is prepared for multiple backends. Many different ones are possible. ARM and x64 are the primary bare metal targets. Further, it is a specific goal to be able to target Red at embedded platforms and virtual machine platforms such as the JVM, Dalvik and .Net.

Sun Releases New Java and JavaFX Software Updates and Previews JavaFX TV; Strong Demand Powers 250 Million JavaFX Downloads

Sun Releases New Java and JavaFX Software Updates and Previews JavaFX TV; Strong Demand Powers 250 Million JavaFX Downloads

SAN FRANCISCO, CA JAVAONE CONFERENCE, June 2, 2009 Sun Microsystems, Inc. (NASDAQ: JAVA) released the latest updates of the JavaFX platform and Java Platform Standard Edition (Java SE). The JavaFX platform provides a unified development and deployment model for building expressive, rich Internet applications (RIAs) across browsers, desktops, mobile devices and TVs. JavaFX 1.2 delivers a new user interface library and performance enhancements to improve the user experience associated with JavaFX applications. JavaFX has gained significant market momentum with more than 250 million installations of the JavaFX runtime environment and 400,000 downloads of the JavaFX SDK since its release in December 2008. Java SE 6 Update 14 includes expanded Windows support, a streamlined installer and performance enhancements. Download the latest version of JavaFX and Java SE at: http://www.javafx.com.

The JavaFX 1.2 platform release is complemented by the first public preview of JavaFX TV, which completes the vision of JavaFX applications running across browsers, desktops, mobile devices, and TVs. Sun also previewed the JavaFX Authoring Tool, which allows designers and Web developers to visually create JavaFX applications.
"The latest version of JavaFX, combined with updates to Java SE, delivers an enhanced user experience for JavaFX applications," said Jeet Kaul, senior vice president of Java technologies at Sun. "JavaFX opens a vast global market for developers and content authors who want to deploy rich, expressive applications, services and experiences across all the screens of their customers' lives. We continue to strengthen the JavaFX ecosystem by helping to enable more people to create content across more device types and establishing a channel, the Java Store, for developers and ISVs to directly deploy JavaFX applications to hundreds of millions of worldwide Java technology users."
With more than 6.5 million software developers around the globe, Java is one of the world's most popular software platforms and is present on more than 800 million desktop computers and over seven billion Internet-connected devices. Worldwide industry studies show that Java technology is already on more than 90 percent of desktops and laptops, 85 percent of mobile devices and is a technology leader in next-generation televisions, Blu-ray disc players and TV set-top boxes. JavaFX software extends the capabilities of the Java platform by delivering high-fidelity audio and video, rich text, vector graphics, animation and Web services via a simple but powerful scripting language.
JavaFX 1.2 Platform
JavaFX 1.2 includes a new cross-platform user interface (UI) library, faster application start-up, streaming media support through Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) and other performance enhancements across desktop, browser and mobile. JavaFX 1.2's new UI library allows for easier and faster creation of rich user interfaces including components for data visualization and business intelligence applications. JavaFX 1.2 includes early access availability of the JavaFX runtime environment and tools for OpenSolaris and Linux, making it one of the most widely deployed RIA platforms available across all major consumer and enterprise operating systems. To help developers and technical designers get a jump-start on building JavaFX applications, updated samples, tutorials, articles and screen-casts are available at http://www.javafx.com.
JavaSE 6 Update 14
Java SE 6 Update 14 delivers Java Hotspot Client VM with Garbage-First Collector. The new "Garbage-first" or "G1" Garbage Collector, is a more efficient and effective dynamic memory management scheme designed to minimize the program interruptions needed to reclaim system memory. It also provides new enterprise capabilities via 64-bit plug-in support, as well as support for Internet Explorer 8 web browser and the upcoming Windows 7 operating system. In addition Java SE 6 Update 14 continues to enhance recently introduced consumer-oriented features such as the Java plug-in and improved native graphics support, as well as performance updates, including faster start-up time with Java Quick Starter, Java Kernel and the new Java webstart/plug-in cache.
JavaFX TV
At the JavaOne conference, Sun demonstrated a proof of concept of JavaFX TV running on a next-generation LG Electronics TV. JavaFX TV extends the JavaFX platform vision, bringing rich and expressive interactive content to televisions and set-top boxes. It is built on the same family of Java technologies as the Blu-ray Disc standard BD-J, tru2way and other global TV standards, helping to enable developers and content authors to leverage existing skills and tools. JavaFX TV makes it significantly easier for developers to target TV platforms and create customizable and interactive viewing experiences.
JavaFX Authoring Tool
At the JavaOne conference, Sun delivered the first public demonstration of the JavaFX Authoring Tool, a collaborative environment for visual content developers to easily create cloud-based interactive rich applications. The tool allows for simple importing and compositing of graphical, audio and video assets. Authors can easily add interactions, animations and visual effects to create rich experiences that can be deployed across browser, desktop, and mobile.
About 2009 JavaOne Conference
Located at the Moscone Center in San Francisco June 2 - 5, the JavaOne Conference is the definitive venue to highlight the latest implementations, innovations and success stories in Java technology, scripting languages, Rich Internet Applications (RIAs), cloud computing, open source and more. Attendees can get hands-on experience, network with their peers, and have the opportunity to connect with technology experts and industry leaders.

About Sun Microsystems, Inc.

Sun Microsystems develops the technologies that power the global marketplace. Guided by a singular vision -- "The Network is the Computer" -- Sun drives network participation through shared innovation, community development and open source leadership. Sun can be found in more than 100 countries and on the Web at http://sun.com.

Future of Java Technology

Future of Java Technology

When Java was developed initially as OAK even its developers were not sure in which direction the technology will grow. And actually Java has taken an unexpected turn around as a development technology. It started its journey with embedded applications but people found it somewhat slow when compare to C++. Java made foray into web in the form of applets and ruled the world for sometime. But then came enterprise era with crusade of .NET and J2EE. In this article let us examine possible directions where there are chances Java will grow as development technology.
Go Mobile
Mobile phone applications are very wide scope area where Java is being used for its portability and independence. Most of mobile phones operate over Java implementations. Sun has its own implementations names as J2ME (Java 2 Micro Edition), but most mobile phone vendors have developed their own version of J2ME.
Apart from mobile phones Java applications are also significant for other small devices like palmtops, digital diaries etc. Because of its portability and independence from underlying hardware Java is being widely used to develop applications those can be accessed through small devices.
After examining scope, usage and potential of different areas of Java technology we can summarize that it has still long way to go. Java has got a lot of potential to develop and grow in many areas. For existing areas like desktop applications and enterprise applications there are chances for Java to gain better role. Also it has got to grow in new areas of embedded applications in future.

Top 5 Websites for Java Application Examples

Planet Source Code

A valuable database full of Java programs, Planet Source Code boasts one of the largest Java code databases I’ve seen on the internet. Within the website, you’ll find the source code for thousands of Java applications, games, and utilities. Some of the categories on Planet Source Code even include programs dealing with security, data structure, and applets–to name a few.

While you’re there, I would highly recommend viewing PSC’s java program Hall of Fame, where the most impressive or well written code submissions from the past few years are displayed. I personally found that the programs in the Hall of Fame were useful and professional. Oh, and of course–the source for all of the programs is free for you to use, monkey with, and recompile on your computer.

Freeware Java

Hands down one of my favorite sites as a Java Resource, Freeware Java provides source code for hundreds and hundreds of games and applications. This is by far one of the most valuable websites I’ve had access to over the past year for learning Java. My suggestion for using this as a resource is to look at a game or application similar to an area of interest you have, or even a program you want to write. If I want to write an air hockey game, it would be very beneficial to get coding ideas from another programmer’s “Classic Pong” source code, and improve on his or her methods and ideas.

If nothing else, Freeware Java gives you source code access to quite a few well written Java applets and Java application examples. I’d recommend you go straight to the appletspage to check out the source for chat rooms, games, website scripts and more.

Java Galaxy

Java Galaxy is another internet database with hundreds of applications and games complete with free source codes for your learning pleasure. The difference between Java Galaxy and some of the other source code databases in this article is that Java Galaxy source codes are smaller and simpler–the programs aren’t as complex. I would recommend that if you’re a new Java programmer looking for simple examples, you check this site out before the others.

If you’re only about the source code itself, then just go straight to that page. However, feel free to take a look at some of the other interesting features that Java Galaxy has to offer, such as sample interview questions for java developers, or a practice test for the SCJP exam.

Java2s

Java2s is a relatively popular resource for Java developers because it contains a useful database of example code for different aspects of the Java language. An aspiring coder would be hard pressed to find something java related that isn’t contained somewhere in the Java2s website. One valuable resource that the site offers is a very structured Java Tutorial section which especially centers on file I/O and Swing, but has a section on almost everything.

Caution; this site doesn’t have any eye candy or pretty flashing lights that many websites today thrive off of–you can expect a practical, organized java resource and nothing else. While the site is not 100% dedicated to program source codes, I decided to include it because it still offers a large amount of code, but in a structured and ordered manner that I found extremely helpful.

Java DB

Java DB provides access to a database of Java programming tips and example Java code for certain problems. The site’s layout is relatively simple and convenient as far as content management goes. Code examples and tutorials are separated into small box-categories on the home page, and there is a Google site search box for accessing quicker, more targeted results. Also on this site is an excellent free Java Language Tutorial. Although a work in progress, the tutorial is comprehensive, informative, and clear.

Learning Java can be an extremely daunting process, especially if you’re preparing for the SCJP exam or something to that effect (if you are, I feel your pain). I often find that one of the best ways you can gain an understanding of something is by jumping headlong into it. Learn from other people, get your hands dirty, ask questions and make mistakes (I certainly do). Hopefully this article gave you a few resources to use in learning Java or getting a feel for its practical uses.

Sun, HP Vague on Java Talks

Hewlett-Packard and Sun officials are reportedly discussing their different approaches to implementing embedded Java. Officially, at least, the talks are proceeding, but neither company is saying what, if anything, is being resolved.

"We are having very productive talks," said Sun spokeswoman Elizabeth McNichols, declining to elaborate further.

During last month's JavaOne conference, Hewlett-Packard said it had developed its own Java virtual machine to embed in consumer electronics devices. The salt in the wound for Sun was the announcement that Microsoft would be the technology's first licensee.

This was a blow to Sun's goal of putting its own specification for a scaled-down Java in most any computer environment, no matter how small. HP said it would challenge Sun's control of the embedded Java standard by offering its own implementation as a standards contender.

Following HP's bombshell, Sun extended an olive branch in the hope that the two companies could come to terms over the matter. A brief meeting between company executives was reportedly conciliatory.

But although Sun characterizes the current discussions as "productive," HP officials merely said the talks are aimed at "doing the right thing" when it comes to embedded Java. In part, said HP's Byron Ryono, worldwide marketing manager for embedded software technology, the subject is a standard for embedded Java.

He denied that there is any new development in relations between the companies.

"Part of the tune here is that we are ready for talks. The other part of the tune is still strong," Ryono said, referring to the company's intention to continue developing Java for the embedded marketplace. "There's no tune change," he said, extending the musical metaphor, except to the extent "that we can come to some place that we can do what's right for the embedded market.

"We're overcoming whatever inhibitors there are for us [to] achieving the basic goals for meeting the customers needs."

Asked why the two companies are holding discussions, Ryono said, "We do have a desire to do what's right." Right now, he said, that simply means talking with Sun.

Sun has yet to submit its specifications for defining Java standards, even though the International Standards Organization endorsed the company as the language's standard bearer last November. Although Sun says the specifications will come later this year, HP's move shows that frustrated companies wanting to incorporate Java into their products are moving ahead on their own.

Speculating on the content of the talks, one industry observer said Sun may be trying to lure HP toward its own embedded Java by lowering the licensing fees for its use. HP has said however, that licensing issues are not the primary motivation in developing its own virtual machine.

It's about "being open and free to be competitive," Ryono said. The company has also argued that write-once, run-anywhere -- Java's cross-platform mantra -- is not as relevant in embedded devices like printers. Rather, HP says, that any Java virtual machine should be optimized for the embedded environment, and it feels Sun restricts vendors from developing partial, customized implementations of the language.

But HP has also said Sun's per-unit licensing is a poor fit for HP's high-volume, low-cost production of printers and other devices.

What Is JavaFX

What Is JavaFX

JavaFX extends your web experience by delivering rich media and content across all the screens of your life. As users, you will be able to run JavaFX applications in a browser or drag and drop them onto the desktop. It's a seamless interface!

JavaFX is powered by Java: JavaFX extends the power of Java by allowing developers to use any Java library within JavaFX applications. This way developers can expand their capabilities in Java and make use of the revolutionary presentation technology that JavaFX provides to build engaging visual experiences.

Highlights of JavaFX:

• Allows users to view JavaFX applications in a browser or break free of the browser by dragging and dropping the same application onto the desktop
• Enables an efficient designer-to-developer workflow with Project Nile: designers can work in their tools of choice while collaborating with Web scripters who use the NetBeans IDE with JavaFX
• Extends Java technology by enabling use of any Java library within a JavaFX application
• Allows developers to integrate vector graphics, animation, audio, and video Web assets into a rich, interactive, immersive application

To learn more about JavaFX technology, visit javafx.com or java.sun.com/javafx web sites for more information.

Some Ways Software Developers Learn Java

Some Ways Software Developers Learn Java

Many colleges and universities offer courses in programming for the Java platform. In addition, developers can also enhance their Java programming skills by reading Oracle's Java developer web site, subscribing to Java technology-focused newsletters, using the Java Tutorial and the New to Java Programming Center, and signing up for Web, virtual, or instructor-led courses.

The Oracle Technology Network is the world's largest community of application developers, database admins, system admins/developers, and architects using industry-standard technologies in combination with Oracle products. It is also the home of oracle.com/technetwork/java, the ultimate, complete, and authoritative source of technical information about Java. Membership is free, join today! (In your Profile, check the Oracle Technology Network box under My Community Memberships.)

the Da Vinci Machine Project a multi-language renaissance for the Java™ Virtual Machine architecture

Mission

We are extending the JVM with first-class architectural support for languages other than Java, especially dynamic languages. This project will prototype a number of extensions to the JVM, so that it can run non-Java languages efficiently, with a performance level comparable to that of Java itself.

Our emphasis is on completing the existing bytecode and execution architecture with general purpose extensions, as opposed to a new feature for just one language, or adjoining an unrelated new execution model.

We want the new languages to co-exist gracefully with Java in the JVM, and to benefit (like Java) from its powerful and mature technologies.

We are looking to remove “pain points” already observed by implementors of successful or influential languages, as opposed to attempting more speculative work on unproven features or niche languages.

Sub-projects with major activity include dynamic invocation, continuations,tail-calls, and interface injection.  There is a large number of more speculative, lower-priority sub-projects. These are included in hopes that someone in the community will become excited with us at the prospects of a more dynamic JVM, to the point of sharing in its creation.

Community

• Questions?  Try our FAQ.
• Getting involved:
• Prototyping work
• • Repository: hg.openjdk.java.net/mlvm/mlvm, mlvm/hotspot,mlvm/jdk. (Note: It is structured as a forest of patches, not of source files.)
• Mailing lists
  • mlvm-dev (medium volume as of 7/2009); see archives here.
• Documentation
  Note: The following are under construction. Perpetually so, since they are wikis. Please join in!
  • HotSpot Internals for OpenJDK
  • HotSpot Developer Notes for OpenJDK
  • Multi-Language Da Vinci Machine Project
• Specification process — JSR 292
• • http://jcp.org/en/jsr/detail?id=292
  • May 2009 enumeration of JSR 292 design issues.
  • intermediate draft of the method handle API
  • announcing the invokedynamic Early Draft Release
    notes from the 5/2008 JavaOne meeting
• Issue list
• • (issue management TBD)
• Bloggers
  • John Rose (project lead)
  • Charles Nutter
  • Rémi Forax
  • Tobias Ivarsson
  • Fredrik Öhrström
• Presentations & Articles
  • New JDK 7 Feature: Support for Dynamically Typed Languages in the Java Virtual Machine, 2009-07-24, Sun Developer Networkarticle
  • Java yields to other languages on the Java Virtual Machine, 2009-07-16 Computerworld
  • Toward a Renaissance VM, 2009-06-02 JavaOne TS-5216, San Francisco
  • JSR 292 Cookbook, 2009-06-04 JavaOne BOF-5236, San Francisco
  • Collaborating on JVM Futures [PDF], 2009-06-01 CommunityOne, San Francisco
  • New JVM Plumbing: Method Handles and More and Channel 9 interview, 2009-05 Lang.NET in Redmond
  • Dynamic VM summit, 2009-03-25 before PyCon in Chicago
  • Rémi Forax and Alex Buckley, 2009-02-08 at FOSDEM in Brussels
  • Alex Buckley & Brian Goetz, 2008-12-09 at Devoxx08 in Antwerp
  • JVM Language Summit, 2008-09-24 at Sun’s Santa Clara campus (more to come in 2009)
  • The Da Vinci Machine: Multi Language Environment for Java Virtual Machine, presented by Thamaraiselvan 2008-04-09 at Jax India 2008
  • Evolving the Java platform, presented by Ola Bini 2008-03-13 atQCon London
  • New Languages on the JVM: Pain Points and Remedies, presented by John Rose and Charles Nutter 2008-01-28 at the Microsoft 2008 Lang.NET Symposium
  • Off-project, but related: The future will be about programming languages, 2007-09-11 observations by Ted Neward on the “renaissance”.

Extra! Recently rediscovered diagrams prove Leonardo invented the first JVM: