Planetweb, Sun, and Sega of America Dreamcast announced, at the JavaOne Developer Conference, the launch of one of the first mass-produced consumer electronic products to deliver an enhanced Internet experience running on the open, cross-platform technology licensed from Sun. Sega's top selling Sega Dreamcast gaming console will feature Planetweb's implementation of the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), a fully-enabled PersonalJava technology solution for Internet appliances.

"In today's network-centric world, anything with a 'digital heartbeat' is being connected. Integrating Planetweb's implementation of the JVM-powered browser will place consumer products such as the Sega Dreamcast at the heart of the convergence between entertainment, the Internet, and service delivery," said Patricia C. Sueltz, President, Sun Software Products and Platforms. "Java technology provides the platform for enhancing the user experience with better Web fidelity, an enhanced gaming experience, and new Web-based services."

Planetweb's JVM implementation allows for easy customization of content and applications by consumer electronic manufacturers and application developers. The JVM translates code very efficiently and optimizes full PersonalJava technology libraries for the Planetweb browser, ensuring compatibility across platforms.

Information appliances are expected to reach a worldwide market value of $17.8 billion in 2004, up from $2.4 billion in 1999, according to IDC. As the leader in providing open platform solutions, Planetweb is committed to bringing the benefits of Java technology to content developers and manufacturers of consumer electronic devices.

"Planetweb is pleased to be among the first software manufacturer to develop a PersonalJava application environment for consumer electronic devices," said Ken Soohoo, co-founder, president and CEO of Planetweb. "Planetweb's implementation of PersonalJava technology offers our OEM partners a robust Internet enabling software that enriches the usefulness and product life of consumer electronic devices."

The Sega Dreamcast recently passed the two million milestone for units sold, making it the fastest and highest selling Internet appliance in the U.S.

Anticipating increased competition in the interactive gaming category, Sega is staying ahead of the curve with the release of the Planetweb V3.0 Sega Dreamcast browser planned for release in September.

"We're committed to creating the ultimate gaming and online experience for Dreamcast users," said Gabrielle Mitchell, director of marketing, Sega.com. "The Planetweb Java technology powered browser will deliver Dreamcast users access to enhanced gaming content, including Java technology-based applications and games."

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