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Sun Lowers Barriers to Open-Source Java

Posted by Zonk on from the coffee-making-made-easy dept.

Shyane writes "Sun Microsystems is making it easier for open-source programmers to ensure their Java versions meet the company's compatibility requirements, but the deal extends only to those involved in Sun's own open-source Java project. The program grants access to its Java Technology Compatibility Kit to anyone with an open-source Java project that is based substantially on Sun's open-source Java software and governed by the GPL. Programmers need access to the test kit to prove that a project is in compliance with the Java specification. Projects that pass Sun's compatibility kit tests also can use the official Java logos for free."

2 of 144 comments (clear)

  1. Re:So what about gcj? by loubs001 · · Score: 5, Informative

    Fortunately the GNU Classpath guys are right on board with OpenJDK. One of their most prominent members Dalibor Topic (who's the lead on the Kaffe VM) is on the OpenJDK governence board and works with Sun and other representivies on managing the project. Other promiment members like Roman Kennke, David Gilbert, Mario Torre and others. are active on the OpenJDK mailing lists and submitting patches. They are all interested in becoming regular contributors to the project.

    Other GNU Classpath developers working for Red Hat were very quick to produce a version of OpenJDK using pieces of Classpath to fill the wholes of "encumbered" components that havent been open sourced (like the font, graphics and sound engines that were licensed by Sun by 3rd parties). This is called IceTea. Though its more of a quick 'n dirty temporary project to have a completely GPL JDK right now until the holes can be plugged properly. For example, Sun released a more sophistated FreeType based font engine this week, and the rest of the holes will eventually be filled. But for now, IceTea is a great playground for experimentation. And as far as I can tell, Red Hat wants to contribute anything useful back in OpenJDK.

    You might that the GNU Classpath guys would be dissapointed, feeling that their hard work is obsolete, but no, they're happy because they know they were a big part of the reason why OpenJDK exists, and they're looking forward to contributing.

  2. Re:Openness! by Just+Some+Guy · · Score: 5, Funny

    Seriously, I was pissed when I found out just how bad Java support is for Linux PPC. I couldn't get an iMac to go to Yahoo! games for my grandma. :(

    You gave your own grandma an iMac and then put Linux on it?

    Why do you hate your grandma?

    --
    Dewey, what part of this looks like authorities should be involved?