Install Java on Windows Mobile - A Step-by-Step Guide

Enabling Java Support on Windows Mobile Devices

Currently, the majority of applications designed for Windows Mobile 6 and 6.5 utilize CAB files and do not require Java for execution. However, a significant number of legacy applications, as well as those originally created for alternative platforms, rely on .JAD files or similar formats.

Running these older applications necessitates the presence of Java installed on your Windows Mobile device. Information regarding this process can be scarce.

Fortunately, JavaFX is available and can be installed on compatible Windows Mobile devices. This package includes The Sun Java Wireless Client and a selection of demonstration applications.

Installing JavaFX Mobile 1.2 for Windows Mobile

To initiate the installation of Java for Windows Mobile, navigate to the designated URL and select the following download option:

Select the checkbox corresponding to JavaFX Mobile 1.2 for Windows Mobile. Subsequently, confirm your agreement by checking the box labeled I agree. Finally, click the download button to obtain the 5.2MB zip file.

Within the downloaded archive, locate a directory named DIST, and within that, the BIN directory. The BIN directory contains the SUN_JAVAFX.CAB file, which is the installer for your device.

If you downloaded the zip file directly to your phone, proceed to the next step. Otherwise, extract the SUN_JAVAFX.CAB file from the archive on your computer and transfer it to your device.

Should you have transferred the zip file to your device, locate it and open it using Zip Mobile by simply tapping on the file.

Within Zip Mobile, select the CAB file and double-tap it to launch the installation process.

For optimal performance, it is recommended to install Java to your device's internal memory, unless you possess a high-speed memory card. The installation requires approximately 8 MB of storage space.

A progress bar will appear, indicating the installation status of JavaFX. On an HTC Tilt 2 running Windows Mobile 6.5, the installation took approximately 3 minutes.

Upon completion, JavaFX will display a confirmation message, signaling that you are ready to launch the application.

Locate the program file; it may be found within your Start Menu. If it is not present, navigate to your Program Files directory and find JavaFX. Select JavaFX to initiate the application.

The JavaFX interface features a file menu containing several bundled Java applications, including a calculator, DisplayShelfMode, a Fish Simulator, and Twitter Mobile. These applications serve as demonstrations of Mobile Java's capabilities and provide a means to test Java application compatibility on your Windows Mobile device.

To test functionality, select one of the applications and click to run it. A JavaFX splash screen will briefly appear before the application launches.

For example, the Fishing Simulator allows interaction with the water and fish, creating ripple effects. While perhaps unconventional, it confirms that Java is functioning correctly on your Windows Mobile device.