Java developers offered better mobile apps certification

An on-demand digital certificate management service should help developers create better applications

The Unified Testing Initiative (UTI), a mobile industry Java application co-operative, is giving developers a helping hand with a new on-demand digital certificate management service as part of a newly relaunched Java Verified programme.

Java Verified is part of the Unified Testing Criteria against which mobile Java developers can test their applications, and offers a testing and signing process which should help developers create better applications more quickly and cheaply.

The enhancements provide developers with a fresh set of tools for ensuring quality throughout the entire testing process, and the ability to test applications across a greater number of devices.

UTI is using on-demand digital certificate management services from Public Key Infrastructure authentication firm TC TrustCenter for the new certification.

"We selected TC TrustCenter's vetting and mobile code signing services for Java Verified because of its 10-plus years of experience in the security market, proven vetting programme and technical expertise," said Martin Wrigley, chairman of the UTI.

"We consider TC TrustCenter as an important partner in making our Java Verified programme successful."

Applications that pass Java Verified testing are digitally signed and returned to developers. This certification then allows them to be quickly distributed through a number of channels, including the increasingly popular range of apps stores, as both provider and end user can be assured of its quality.

The UTI comprises major players from across the mobile industry, including LG Electronics, Motorola, Nokia, Orange, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Sun Microsystems and Vodafone Group Access.

The Java platform is integrated into over 4.5 billion devices, including PCs, mobile phones, smart cards and any number of other handheld devices, and has attracted around 6.5 million Java developers, according to the UTI.

"We are honoured to be offering our services to the world's 6.5 million Java ME developers through UTI's Java Verified programme," said Bob Steinkrauss, president and chief executive of TC TrustCenter.