Sun releases Java code under the GPL

November 13th, 2006

Santa Clara, CA - Sun Microsystems will finally offer its Java software on an open-source basis.

Sun Microsystems Inc., the U.S. software company, will offer its Java software on an open-source basis.

"In the case of Java SE (Java Standard Edition), we're enhancing (the GPL) with the classpath exception. So when you're working on top or shipping applications with the (Java) libraries and virtual machine, you're not affected by the Java license."

"The open-sourcing of this really means more - more richness of offerings, more capability, more applications that consumers will get to use," Green said. "The platform itself will become a place for innovation."

Java is a programming language common in smart cards and cellphones. But open-source products have eclipsed Java for many applications. Embracing an open-source approach lets Sun keep current, broaden its appeal and lower the cost of using Java, the Wall Street Journal said Monday.

"The fact that we are changing the license and making this a free and open-source technology platform really allows us to look at the current billion installed base and say how do we get to the next billion," said Jonathan Schwartz, Sun's chief executive.