SHARE
Follow this article on Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Bookmark and Share
Home >> Departmental and End User Computing

Web developers get crack at BlackBerry app

Web developers get crack at BlackBerry app

By:  Paul Krill  On: 06 Oct 2009 For: InfoWorld (U.S.) 
 

BlackBerry capabilities are no longer limited to Java developers as the new Widget SDK backs technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript ...

Research In Motion (RIM) will preview on Tuesday technologies enabling application builders to use Web development skills to build programs for the company's BlackBerry smartphone.

Previously, Java development skills have been required to build applications leveraging BlackBerry capabilities, RIM said. Technologies set for release in a beta format include: the BlackBerry Widget SDK (Software Development Kit), for building integrated applications using common Web technologies including HTML, CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), and JavaScript; a command line tool to convert the Web application into a Java application and a simulator to test applications. General release of the three technologies is planned for later this year. The beta technologies can be accessed at this Web page.

RIM's move greatly expands the base of developers who can build for its popular device, with more developers capable of building Web applications than Java applications, said Mike Kirkup, RIM director of developer relations. Developers can take Web content and essentially turn it into a widget on the BlackBerry platform, he said.


"What this is, it would give people the ability to have the same look and feel as Java applications on the BlackBerry by using Web development and Web technologies," Kirkup said. Widgets still enjoy benefits of Java applications, such as native integration with other applications, local storage, location-based services, and sandbox security.

"The idea here is a new development methodology," said Kirkup.

Developers render an application interface using Web technologies; Web applications can be extended using BlackBerry Widget APIs. For example, developers can provide for interaction between a widget and the BlackBerry e-mail and calendar applications.

Or, widgets could be developed to view or edit files and documents stored on the BlackBerry. Developers can use RIM push technology enabling dynamic widgets that run in the background and provide alerts to users.

All three technologies will be available free of charge. Developers will need version 5.0 of the BlackBerry OS. BlackBerry Widgets can be distributed through the BlackBerry App World online application store or, in corporate environments, through BlackBerry Enterprise Server.

While RIM now is offering its own technologies for Web development, third party Rhomobile previously has offered its Rhodes framework enabling use of HTML to build for smartphones including the BlackBerry.

Sign up for our Newsletters
Tags: BlackBerry, Widget

 
Close X












Close X
Print |  Views: 985   |   Rating:offoffoffoffoff  (0 votes)
Rate this article on a scale of
1 to 5 stars,5 being the best.



Close X
Page 1

paul krill Paul Krill is a contributor to the International Data Group (IDG) News Service, which publishes global technology stories from bureaus around the world to more than 300 publications in more than 60 countries.

Recent Canadian IT Jobs


more: IT Jobs , Post A Job


Related Content

RIM releases Web tools to developers
RIM releases Web tools to developersMove seen as boost to development of Web apps beyond the BlackBerry's core Java platform
RIM opens up to J2ME
RIM opens up to J2MEResearch In Motion Monday introduced a Java 2 Platform developers’ environment for its flagship handheld device and, in doing so, took another step towards falling in line with competitors, according to a Toronto-based analyst.
End users developing for end users
like many vendors of applications for the end user, sap ag is striving to tailor its products to meet shifting demands. that is, the worker who wants more data and access control, less it administrator involvement, and the ability to work on a platform or interface that grants consumer-like or web 2.0 qualities. a year after stressing th
blog comments powered by Disqus