Oracle is now making it easier to build mobile versions of Java-based enterprise applications.
Earlier this week, the enterprise software giant announced Oracle ADF (application development framework) Mobile, a new extension to its Oracle JDeveloper software development platform that lets companies extend Java-based applications to mobile devices.
As mobile operating systems such as Apple iOS and Google Android are evolving rapidly, developing mobile apps for each platform usually means maintaining different kinds of code. Oracle ADF Mobile helps to ease this process by providing a set of developer tools and services that most programmers are familiar with.
According to Oracle, developers can pick a subset of business components from Java-based applications and package them into a mobile app using Web technologies such as HTML5 and JavaScript, along with access to device services such as GPS and phonebook contacts. A lightweight Java Virtual Machine is also embedded to support the Java application logic.
Apps created with ADF Mobile will adapt to various screen sizes, thanks to the use of flow-based layouts that allow an app’s user interface to flow dynamically based on available screen estate. The apps can be installed directly on a connected mobile device or deployed to an app store such as Apple App Store and Google Play.
The debut of Oracle ADF Mobile is timely as more enterprises are looking at ways to let employees access corporate applications and data on their own devices. Beyond mobile e-mail, putting enterprise applications such as HR management in the hands of mobile workers will not only improve employee productivity, it will also help CIOs justify the hefty investments in enterprise mobility.
