In your Java column on May 22, Danyll Wills claimed that Apple intends to make Java run 'better' on the Mac OS. This is true, but not by manipulating Java to its own advantage, as implied in the preceding paragraphs. In fact, Apple fully supports Sun's 100 per cent Java initiative and has joined Sun, IBM, and Netscape in their joint effort to evolve the Java Foundation Classes, the most comprehensive set of tools for defining the look and feel of Java applications. Apple also has announced that it would embrace the Java platform as a central component of its next-generation OS, Rhapsody. By adopting Java, Apple believes Rhapsody will allow developers to create best-of-breed applications, delivered across multiple platforms, shortening development cycles, and bringing the benefits of Java to mainstream applications. Apple also understands the industry can benefit by the standardisation of certain Java technologies. However, Apple believes such standardisation should take place in a truly open manner. KENNETH CHEUK, Product manager, Software and Internet, Apple Asia. DANYLL WILLS writes: At Apple's world-wide developers conference last month, Avi Tevanian said: 'We intend to add significant value as a key contributing ally in the evolution of the Java platform.' Many developers in Hong Kong asked me if this meant Apple would be trying to do what they believe Microsoft is doing and make Java run better on its platform. I am pleased to hear from Apple that this is not true.
