Cross-platform development tools specialist Trolltech is shipping a Java add-on for its flagship C++ application development framework. “Qt Jambi” comprises class libraries and integrated development tools aimed at helping users develop rich client applications with a look and feel native to multiple GUI targets.

Qt Jambi is designed to work in conjunction with Qt, Trolltech's C++ application development platform. Qt Jambi's Java class libraries are said to provide APIs (application programming interfaces) for development and layout, database interaction, multi-threading, networking, XML, and so on. In conjunction with a Java virtual machine, the Qt Jamba APIs let developers mix and match Java and C++ development, Trolltech said. The approach has less of a performance hit than previous technologies aimed toward the same goal, the company suggests.

Qt Jambi architecture
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In addition to Java class libraries, Qt Jambi includes integrated development tools such as a GUI layout builder and internationalizer. Some or all of the tools are integrated with the popular Eclipse framework, which originally supported Java development, but was extended to other languages (for example, via the C/C++ development tool plug-in), Trolltech said.

Trolltech cited Evans Data Corp. figures suggesting that the U.S. has about a million Java developers, while 1.5 million exist outside the country.

Naren Karattup, product director of tools at Trolltech, said, “Current Qt customers who wish to add Java to their current C++ applications now have a solution. Independent studies of our customers indicate more than 25 percent wish to use Qt with Java.”

Availability

Qt Jambi is available now, under Trolltech's dual-license business model. A 30-day free evaluation version is also available. Commercial pricing starts between $1,780 and $3,560, depending on target support (i.e., Windows, Mac OS, and/or Linux).

Additionally, an interesting Java-based demo featuring dozens of Qt Jambi example applications can be accessed here.

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