The Palo Alto, Calif.-based company acknowledged that because of timing issues, no PC maker has opted to incorporate Sun's version of the Java Virtual Machine--or JVM--in Windows XP systems. Case in point: Compaq Computer has stated that it will incorporate Microsoft's JVM in its upcoming Windows XP PCs. Compaq's decision, especially if followed by other PC makers, will likely thwart Sun in its attempt to show what can be accomplished with the Java programming language. Java programs have been increasing in popularity on the Web. Sun's JVM, a piece of software that lets computers run Java programs, is designed to show Java applications off in the best possible light. By contrast, Microsoft's JVM is based on 4-year-old technology.

Sun has been writing code furiously since Microsoft's April decision not to ship the JVM with Internet Explorer 6, which is integrated into Windows XP. Sun had planned to offer an IE 6-compatible version of the JVM but won't have it ready in time to ship on new Windows XP PCs. While initially viewed as a blow to Java, Microsoft's JVM pullback also presented Sun with a unique opportunity to deliver a faster, more feature-laden copy of the software to consumers. Because of a legal spat and eventual settlement between Sun and Microsoft, the Redmond, Wash.-based software giant distributes the 4-year-old version of the JVM.