Sun is planning to upgrade its Java software so that it can compete in the fast-growing market for Internet mobiles.

Sun was an early leader in developing Internet-oriented software but is getting kicked by competition from Symbian, Microsoft, Palm, and Research in Motion.

According to the New York Times, the new software will merge its mobile-handset version of Java with the smartphone operating system technology that Sun bought from SavaJe.

Sun wants handset makers and cellular carriers to adopt the the new version of Java which will be called JavaFX.

This will be used with a scripting language that will enable designers of interactive Web sites to create content that can be easily distributed over the net.

More here.