BREW is short for Binary Runtime Environment for Wireless application and device development. Binary is something made of, or based on, two things or parts; runtime refers to the actual execution of a program.

The BREW platform provides applications developers with a platform that leverages the existing and emerging features provided by QUALCOMM's CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) chipsets. The advantage of the platform is that because it is located between the chip system software and the application, it allows developers to create applications for CDMA-compatible chipsets without requiring knowledge of the chip system source code. It also allows developers to write applications that can be used on a variety of phones, without requiring modification of the application for each new device or model. BREW uses C and C++ development languages, and also supports the integration of Java applications, if a Java Virtual Machine is available on the device. Technical specifications of BREW are available on the Web site only for developers who register with QUALCOMM.

 

Licensing
QUALCOMM is providing BREW, along with a Windows-based SDK (Software Development Kit) to handset manufacturers and application developers free of charge (with a user's license). SDK Version 1.0.1 includes the following tools:

BREW AEE - Environment which assists in the development of applets and shared modules in C or C++.

BREW Emulator - Front-end graphical user interface that can be used to load and test applets.

Device Configurator - Helps to generate new devices or edit existing configurations.

Resource Editor - Generates MIFs (Module Information Files) which contain module and applet-specific information required to load the applet.

BREW DLLs - Family of DLLs (Dynamic Link Libraries) that introduce the supported BREW classes in the Microsoft Windows environment.

BREW Header Files - The interface definitions that are used to develop applets.

Partner Tools
A set of tools called the ARM BREW Builder has been developed to help create applications that will run on all BREW enabled ARM powered platforms. The package contains code generation tools, including C and C++ compilers, linker, libraries for ARM and Thumb instruction sets, file conversion utilities and online documentation. This is available to BREW developers for $1,500.

Insignia Solutions began working with QUALCOMM in April 2001 to make their virtual machine technology available for use with the BREW platform. Insignia claims that the Jeode Embedded Virtual Machine will give developers, manufacturers and carriers access to Java-based software that will help address performance and compatibility issues for mobile Java applications. The Jeode is a software implementation of Sun Microsystem's PersonalJava and EmbeddedJava specifications tailored for information appliances.

 

Developers
In order to create a BREW application, developers must:

1. Acquire the BREW SDK and an ARM compiler
2. Develop applications and have them tested under the TRUE BREW compatibility testing program (after certification, the application is given a digital signature, which will be used by handsets for authentication purposes)
3. Work with carriers to offer the application to end users

Over one thousand developers worldwide have registered with QUALCOMM on the BREW Website, according to the company (April 2001). Some examples include:

MP3.com - BREW tool that will deliver music on wireless phones

Eyematic - eyePublish system which creates 3D animated characters to act as customer service representatives to simplify purchases made via wireless phone

Brodia Group - identity management system to enable enhanced security of credit card transactions and wireless online payments

Visto - system that enables customers to access corporate e-mail, calendars and contact lists through a wireless device and a BREW-enabled version of its mLynx software

Software Partners
QUALCOMM also has over 3 dozen software partners including Hewlett -Packard, RedWave Technology, Windwire, Chasma, Namco, Softbank Mobile, Net Village, ObjectVision, KDD Network Systems, FluxNetworks, Brighton, Digital Net Works, ROKU, Zkey, Flex Firm, K Laboratory, Vayusphere, FunMail, Media Socket and Asahi Kasei.

Manufacturers
QUALCOMM has signed agreements with the following manufacturers (as of April 2001): Hyundai Electronics Industries, LG Electronics, Cyberland and eAnywhere Tech.

Carriers
QUALCOMM has memoranda of understanding with the following wireless networks:

Japan
-KDDI

Korea
-Korea Telecom Freetel
-LG Telecom

US
-LEAP
-Verizon Wireless

Canada
-Bell Mobility

Mexico
-Pegaso

South America
-Movicom
-Telesp

New Zealand
-NZ Telecom

A complete list of all BREW partners can be found here.

 

Consumers
QUALCOMM is hoping that BREW will enable the same types of useful applications that now exist on desktop computers. Potential applications include e-mail, instant messaging, real-time navigation services, group chat, group games, customized news and information services.

Initial BREW-enabled applications are expected to be released to consumers before the end of 2001.