What is Java Card?

Java Card is an industry-standard technology platform Sun Microsystems (now Oracle) developed to enable Java-based applications - applets - to run on smart cards that support this standard. 

Java Card 3.2 is the latest version announced by Oracle at the end of January 2023. 

Its new features make applications more portable across IoT hardware, such as smart meters and industrial IoT, automotive IoT, and cloud-connected devices.

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Why Java Card?

Java Card helps developers build, test, and deploy smart card-based applications quickly and efficiently with an object-oriented programming model and off-the-shelf development tools. 

For smart card issuers, it delivers a secure and interoperable platform that can be used to store and update multiple applications on a single end-user device.

Java Card technology is used in a wide range of smart card applications, including:

There's more.

Java Card can now enable access to NBIoT or 5G networks.

Benefits of Java Card

Its unique features provide several advantages. 

  • Applets are interoperable and run on any Java Card-based smart card device, reducing hardware costs. 
  • Also, multiple applications can reside on a single device. 
  • New applications can be installed securely after a card has been issued using Over-The-Air (OTA) platforms, enabling card issuers to dynamically respond to their customer's changing needs.
  • Java Cards enable easy and fast updates through an open OS architecture that separates the platform from the application. This partitioning also reduces migration constraints, even after initial card issuance. 

Compliant applications can be loaded, and cards compatible with existing ones can be produced quickly.

The strong security of the Java programming language provides the foundation for Java Card's secure execution environment. 

 

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A recognized open standard

According to Oracle, nearly six billion Java Card-enabled devices are rolled out yearly.

Java Card offers one of the most secure technology platforms as an open standard backed by leading smart card manufacturers, including Thales. 

Besides, this technology enables various business models between the issuer, application providers, and operators, thanks to multiple security domains and dynamic application partitioning.

As a thought leader and participant in several committees driving industry standards, Thales is also helping define platform enhancements that benefit all organizations that use Java Card technology.

TOP 5 FAQs on Java Card technology

1. What is it?

A Java Card is a smart card capable of running applications written in Java, designed for resource-constrained devices like SIMs and credit cards.

2. How does Java Card technology work?

Java Card technology incorporates a secure environment and Java's portability to facilitate applets running on various devices, ensuring a robust platform for multiple applications.

3. What are the benefits of Java Card?

Java Card offers cross-platform compatibility, robust security features, the ability to host multiple applets, and the flexibility to update applets post-issuance.

4. Where is Java Card technology used?

Due to its secure and adaptable nature, it's utilized in numerous applications, including SIM cards, banking, identity documents, and secure access control.

5. Can Java Card support multiple applications?

Yes, a Java Card can host various applications simultaneously, which can be dynamically managed and updated, providing a versatile platform for end-users.

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