Forums: Back End:

Ok.

We have been asked to look into mobile stuff. So I know about Flash for Mobile, it is a pretty limited environment, but may be suitable.. we dont yet know how complicated the job will get.

However, for more powerful mobile applications, I believe J2ME is the answer.

So as a complete Java virgin: what is a good IDE to work in, where can I find tutorials/forums, especially dealing with J2ME?

Is it worthwhile creating mobile applications, or does it make more sense to create XHTML/WAP websites and get people to visit these - meaning I can use my current skills without needing to learn Java?

etc etc.. any wisdom welcome.

Thanks

I had a brief flirtation with J2ME, enough to get a 'hello world' app running on my mobile and learn that I couldn't be bothered with learning all the nuances (variations between platforms, limitations etc.). But plenty of people seem to do OK with it, so I guess I'm just lazy.

Eclipse is the standard for any Java work, and EclipseME is a version of it tailored for working with J2ME etc.

As for J2ME v XHTML/WAP, it really depends what you want to do. With the latter, you're limited to the capabilities of the phone's browser whereas J2ME will be more powerful and flexible.

Thanks.

I already have had my fill of differences between browsers/OS, so I can tell that I will hate mobile dev.

From what (little) I remember from that brief flirtation, it's less about variation (i.e. different behaviour, like browsers) and more about differences in abilities -- there are various J2ME libraries and some phones implement only a subset of them. However, bear in mind that I really only dipped my toe in the water so you should take what I say with a pinch of salt.

i know a high-end mobile java developer who works as a consultant ... if you're interested in talking with her, PM me

Cheers, at the moment its just feeling the waters, if I do need to talk to someone I will get in touch.

I'm not sure about J2ME but I've dabbled in Java a bit. It is easy enough to learn and if you enjoy programming then you'll find Java another language with it's own nuances.
If I can learn it then anyone can.

Stinky would have some useful input and some other comparable options ..