Sun Delivers First Version Of Java Plug-In For Windows XP

The plug-in, available on Sun's Web site, is the version of the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) Sun promised to develop after Microsoft declined to incorporate a JVM plug-in for its new operating system, Windows XP. JVM is a component needed for running Java applications in Windows operating systems.

The early access version, essentially a beta of the JVM, is geared toward developers and early adopters, a Sun spokesman said.

The new Java plug-in is recommended for Windows Internet Explorer version 5.5 and higher, and Netscape version 6.0 and higher. The Sun spokesman said that Active X technology is included to ensure the plug-in can integrate into Internet Explorer correctly.

A long-standing disagreement over Java was rekindled between Sun and Microsoft in late July when Microsoft said it would not include a JVM in Windows XP but would instead provide a version users could download and install into the new operating system.

Microsoft and Sun clashed in 1997 when Sun accused Microsoft of violating its Java technology licensing agreement and shipping versions of Java that were compatible only with Windows. Sun's lawsuit was resolved through a settlement in January when Microsoft agreed to pay Sun $20 million and accept the termination of the prior Java licensing deal.

Microsoft's argument for not including a JVM in Windows XP was that the settlement prevents the company from including a JVM that would be on par with its system. According to the settlement, Microsoft can only use the current Java implementations for the next seven years and cannot build on the latest Java specifications.