New generation Java smart cards

The mobile communications sector has long been one of the key driving forces behind the advances in smart card technology. As an industry area that demands innovation, this trend is set to continue. With large investment in both infrastructure and new licences, every mobile network operator strives to offer their customers a better service than that available from their competitor. With cost margins slashed, this can only be provided through an enhanced user experience based on strong applications that really meet consumers' demands for innovation and performance. In spite of the strong competition inspired by an industry aiming to maximise its Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), this has not stopped the networks cooperating on standards to ensure that the smart card industry delivers what they need in terms of interoperability and functionality. While maintaining interoperability the mobile network operators have an ever-increasing need for differentiation that translates into new services and applications that capture the user's imagination.