Symbian launches web app tools

Symbian is trying to encourage developers to build apps for its platform

Mobile operating system maker Symbian has launched a series of web application development tools designed to make it easier for developers to write apps for its Symbian platform.

The new tools allow web developers, of any technical ability, to use their existing skills with HTML, CSS and JavaScript and apply them within a mobile context to gain access to consumers and device manufacturers, the firm said.

Additional use of JavaScript APIs will allow developers to take advantage of the unique features available to mobile apps such as contacts, camera, accelerometers and location to produce more compelling software.

The new Symbian tools provide extra benefits over other web development environments, such as enabling mobile-specific application preview, plus debugging and deployment capabilities, said the firm.

These mobile-focused features are aimed at supporting the transition of web development skills from the desktop into the mobile arena, according to Symbian.

Lee Williams, executive director of Symbian, said: “These Symbian web application development tools provide an ideal entry point for web developers targeting the vast, new development opportunities offered by the Symbian^3 platform and the wider mobile marketplace, where compelling applications are proving their ability to fuel communities.”

He added that the tools would help developers leverage their existing expertise to create powerful mobile apps.

"This, combined with the on-schedule release of Symbian^3, is further proof of our commitment to enabling innovation and empowering all developers, including web developers, to harness the rich capabilities of the Symbian platform," he argued.

The development tools have recently been released from community beta and are available across all major platforms including Windows, Mac and Linux.