Java Update Around the Corner

Most of our software is written in the Java programming language. The Java platform has been an incredible tool for us, allowing us to reach Windows, MacOS, and Linux platforms without having to rewrite our code. The same Text Trix editor we've written for website and software development runs the same way from the same download whether we're running Vista or Ubuntu systems, for example.

One of our main original hurdles to Java software, however, was deployment: how do we make sure that people have the Java platform installed on their computers? One of our more elaborate solutions for the tXtFL simulator was to compile it into large binaries through GCJ, an open-source rewrite of the Java compiler. That avoided the need for a separate Java install altogether. With the Java platform installed on more and more computers these days, we eventually found that solution unnecessary.

Most recently, the Java platform has undergone a major update to make deployment considerably easier. Formerly known as Java 6 Update N, it's now become Java 6 Update 10, a jump from the current Update 5. It includes a Java kernel for downloading just the parts you need, a new deployment toolkit, and performance improvements, including quicker startup time. We've been tracking Update 10 builds and testing our software on them to make sure everything's compatible.

Want to learn more about the Update? I've finally found an article that sums it all up. Have fun reading, try a beta download, and enjoy Text Flex software on your new Java platform!

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