| Sun JDS selected by Japanese government program |
Nov. 15, 2004
Following a year-long evaluation program by Japan's Information/Technology Promotion Agency (IPA), Sun's Java Desktop was selected by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) as part of the agency's initiative to promote the use of open-source desktops in schools throughout the country. The program is part of METI's efforts to help foster open source development and use throughout Japan.
Sun's JDS is a Linux-based desktop OS with open-source software components such as the Mozilla browser and Star Office. Pricing for the OS is US $100 per desktop annually. If purchased in conjunction with Sun's JES, pricing is US $50. Both are sold as annual subscriptions. JES adds Java-based software, including application server, portal and identity management server, for a yearly subscription price of US $100 per employee.
The ministry aims to provide a choice in desktop OS alternatives and seeks to reduce Japan's reliance on Microsoft Windows, acoording to the agency's website.
Last year, Sun signed a deal with the Chinese government to create a Chinese version of JDS. Sun also said it struck a deal with the UK government to use the Linux-based desktop.
Tokyo-based Linux maker Turbolinux was also selected by the initiative, according to the group's website.
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