Microsoft has unveiled details of a programming language geared at accelerating application development for services allied to its .Net platform, announced last week, but observers doubt that it will displace Java.

The C# (pronounced C sharp) object-orientated programming language will, according to Microsoft, provide the computing power of C++ and the ease of use of its own Visual Basic language. The language will be included in the next generation of Visual Studio, which will be available in beta release later this year.

C# is a key component of the Microsoft .Net platform, launched last week. It aims to allow businesses to develop and deploy application on the internet to be used as services. Microsoft said C# makes it easier to work with the emerging XML (eXtensible Markup Language) standard by eliminating much of the computer code developers had to write in other languages.

Bill Dunlap, Microsoft's lead product manager for Visual Studio, said: "This is a language specifically designed for C++ developers who want to be more productive, and who need to take advantage of the growing possibilities for the exchange of information and services over the internet."

Dunlap said C# and the .Net platform make it easier for developers to build web applications that integrate with any operating system running on any device. As such, the language is seen as a reaction to Sun Microsystems' Java. However, Microsoft has been keen to play down the parallels while touting C# as a superior method to offer services.

Andrew Frost, a senior research analyst at Butler Group, said Microsoft's language would reduce the complexity of developing applications for the Windows platform but he doesn't foresee a wider role.

"I doubt whether C# will be a Java competitor. It would have to do everything Java does. Java is already out in the marketplace and has widespread acceptance," said Frost, who added that Microsoft is clearly aiming to "divorce Sun from the equation" when developers look for technologies to build web-based applications.

Microsoft said it is working with the European Computer Manufacturers Association (ECMA), an international standardisation body, to create a specification that would allow multiple technology vendors to create their own versions of C#. This would allow developers to use the language on more operating platforms. Sun had been working with the ECMA to develop a Java standard before withdrawing from this process last year.

Sun opted instead to continue developing Java specifications through its own Java Community Process (JCP) - a move that angered IBM and other licensees which believed that the JCP gave Sun a competitive advantage.

Observers said the friction in the Java camp is not enough to give Microsoft an opportunity in the market.

Simon Moores, chairman of the Microsoft Forums user group, said: "Microsoft is widely optimistic if it's trying to write Java's obituary. Java is a success on the server and has the support of every leading vendor outside Microsoft."