Palm, new tools for OS 5

Zardon · Jun 26, 2002, 10:07 PM

The division of Palm, which creates the software and operating system that go inside Palm handhelds, says it is working with several companies to bring Java support, a new browser and a virtual private networking (VPN) client to its new Palm OS 5. PalmSource sees the software as essential to getting a better foothold among business customers.

The new VPN software, a version of SafeNet's SoftRemotePDA, allows the handheld to create a secure connection with a server inside a corporate network, which would help to protect sensitive data. Palm has been striving to give its products greater appeal to corporations, but with limited success.

Meanwhile, PalmSource says it's working with Access Systems America on the ASA NetFront browser, which will become the basis for the Palm OS 5 Web browser. In addition, the company will make use of Insignia's Mobile Foundation, a Java Virtual Machine, or software engine, that will let applications written in the Java language run on the Palm operating system.

In an interview, PalmSource CEO David Nagel said the company wanted to offer these features to all its licensees, but said it didn't include things like VPN in the OS because the feature is not needed for every device.

Nagel said the key benefit of OS 5-based handhelds will be the improved performance.

"Most applications will run faster...in some cases a lot faster," Nagel said. Some things, like Java support, were largely unworkable before, he said.

Jun 26, 2002, 10:07 PM	#1
Zardon DriverHeaven Founder Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 32,480 Rep Power: 179	Palm, new tools for OS 5 The division of Palm, which creates the software and operating system that go inside Palm handhelds, says it is working with several companies to bring Java support, a new browser and a virtual private networking (VPN) client to its new Palm OS 5. PalmSource sees the software as essential to getting a better foothold among business customers. The new VPN software, a version of SafeNet's SoftRemotePDA, allows the handheld to create a secure connection with a server inside a corporate network, which would help to protect sensitive data. Palm has been striving to give its products greater appeal to corporations, but with limited success. Meanwhile, PalmSource says it's working with Access Systems America on the ASA NetFront browser, which will become the basis for the Palm OS 5 Web browser. In addition, the company will make use of Insignia's Mobile Foundation, a Java Virtual Machine, or software engine, that will let applications written in the Java language run on the Palm operating system. In an interview, PalmSource CEO David Nagel said the company wanted to offer these features to all its licensees, but said it didn't include things like VPN in the OS because the feature is not needed for every device. Nagel said the key benefit of OS 5-based handhelds will be the improved performance. "Most applications will run faster...in some cases a lot faster," Nagel said. Some things, like Java support, were largely unworkable before, he said.