Sun posts Java email spec

Soon you may see Java programs to check mail, according to Sun Microsystems, as it releases a draft specification for building email applications in Java.

Mike Ricciuti Staff writer, CNET News

Mike Ricciuti joined CNET in 1996. He is now CNET News' Boston-based executive editor and east coast bureau chief, serving as department editor for business technology and software covered by CNET News, Reviews, and Download.com. E-mail Mike.

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Mike Ricciuti

Oct. 22, 1997 9:30 a.m. PT

Java is well on its way to becoming a ubiquitous Web technology. Now, Sun Microsystems (SUNW) says that soon you may be using a Java program to check your email.

Sun has posted a draft specification for building email applications in Java. The company has also introduced a new support program for Java developers.

The Java Mail Application Programming Interface is posted to the company?s Web site for public comment and review. It lets developers build email applications entirely in Java, either as new standalone applications or as part of existing programs, such as word processors and spreadsheets, according to Sun.

The Java Mail API will also work with existing email systems and popular protocols, such as MAPI (Messaging Application Programming Interface) and SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol), said Sun.

The specification was developed in conjunction with Netscape Communications, Lotus Development, IBM, and Novell.

The new support program, Java Premium Support, is aimed at businesses deploying Java applications. Two levels of support are available: Java Business Support and Java Enterprise Support. Sun said both programs are intended for in-house developers and software vendors. No pricing was available.