Java Runtime 2.1 Beta for Symbian

archived! Trial concluded

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This trial has been concluded.  Java Runtime 2.1 will not be productized for in-market S60 5th Edition devices.

Version: JRT 2.1.18 for Symbian

Key features

JRT 2.1 Beta introduces the following key usability and performance improvements:

  • Improved installation user experience: The user needs to accept only a single confirmation dialog when installing a MIDlet.
  • Improved MIDlet start-up experience: The Java Runtime displays an instant start-up screen, providing users immediate feedback that the MIDlet is about to start.
  • Improved security user experience: The Java Runtime shows the user fewer security dialogs during runtime. For certified MIDlets, full permissions can be granted in one go.
  • The Java Runtime automatically detects whether a MIDlet needs the on-screen keypad (OSK). The OSK allows Canvas-based MIDlets that rely exclusively on key input to work in the touch UI. The OSK is shown only if a MIDlet does not implement touch event support.

JRT 2.1 Beta includes the following new developer APIs or API changes:

  • Nokia UI API updated to version 1.4:
    • New TextEditor API that allows MIDlets to access platform editors directly in Canvas
    • Screen saver prevention without affecting ambient light
    • Saving text to the system clipboard
    • AudioOutputControl extension for controlling which audio output device, for example the device loudspeaker or earpiece, is used to play back audio
  • TextBox presented as pop-up on top of the MIDlet UI
  • MIDlets can define a splash screen that is displayed on start-up
  • PlatformRequest extension that allows MIDlets to launch other MIDlets and native Symbian applications and pass arguments to them

JRT 2.1 Beta also includes a number of additional new features specific to the Symbian^3 platform. These features are mainly hardware-dependant and not available on S60 5th Edition devices.

For more information about the new features, see the Java Runtime 2.1 for Symbian Release notes at Forum Nokia.

Fixed issues

Based on the Beta Labs feedback, the following issues have been fixed:

Known issues

  • MIDlets installed after installing JRT 2.1 Beta will be lost when JRT 2.1 Beta is uninstalled. The Java Runtime environment is restored to the state it was before installing JRT 2.1 Beta.
  • Backups taken from JRT 2.1 Beta cannot be restored after uninstalling JRT 2.1 Beta.
  • On devices with older firmware, some applications, such as Opera Mini, may stop working. This is because JRT 2.1 Beta requires the OpenC library version 1.6 or newer. Make sure that you have the latest device firmware installed before using JRT 2.1 Beta.
  • After updating a MIDlet when the MIDlet's name or icon has changed, the MIDlet cannot be launched from Application Shell. This problem can be circumvented by reinstalling the updated MIDlet. MIDlet icons are transferred to Applications folder after JRT installation.
  • System threads prioritization has been changed and may affect, for example, some game MIDlets that have implemented infinite loops where repaint() is called immediately after paint(). This issue has been identified at least with Block Breaker Deluxe 2.

Frequently asked questions

Why are MIDlets installed on JRT 2.1 not available after JRT 2.1 is removed?

The internal representation of installed MIDlets differs between JRT 1.x and JRT 2.1. When JRT 2.1 Beta is installed, existing MIDlets are converted to the new internal format. But when JRT 2.1 Beta is uninstalled, the MIDlets are not converted back to the original format, since there are no converters in place to perform the conversion to the opposite direction.

How can I remove JRT 2.1?

You can uninstall JRT 2.1 Beta like any other native application on Symbian devices. However, you need to additionally reboot the device after the uninstallation completes.

How can I restore the original Java Runtime?

You can restore the original JRT version of S60 5th Edition devices by simply uninstalling JRT 2.1 Beta and rebooting the device after the uninstallation completes.

What happens in the MIDlet conversion phase during JRT 2.1 installation?

The internal representation of installed MIDlets differs between JRT 1.x and JRT 2.1. This affects, for example, the format in which MIDlet private data is stored. During installation, this internal representation is changed from JRT 1.x to JRT 2.1.

How can I select the installation drive for a MIDlet?

During MIDlet installation, the destination drive can be selected by clicking the View Details link of the installation dialog. The destination drive of Java Runtime itself cannot be modified.