Java

Java is central to Acorn's future strategy.
The Java Virtual Machine and Just-In-Time compiler are currently being developed. A beta version of the VM, based on the Java v1.0.2 distribution, was distributed to Clan members at the show.
The VM runs on top of Risc OS, and will work as a plug-in to both Acorn's and ANT's browsers.
Release of the full version is planned for early '98.
Java needs an OS that implements pre-emptive multi-tasking and multi-threading. Acorn have developed modules to provide these services to the VM - unfortunately, this results in a 16Mbyte memory requirement for the beta version. The support modules access the low-level OS, bypassing the higher level Risc OS routines.