JSR 179: Location API Support

The JSR 179 Location API gives applications the opportunity to use a device’s location capabilities. For example, some devices include Global Positioning System (GPS) hardware. Other devices might be able to receive location information from the wireless network. The Location API provides a standard interface to location information, regardless of the underlying technique.

In the Location API, a location provider encapsulates a positioning method and supplies information about the device’s location. The application requests a provider by specifying required criteria, such as the desired accuracy and response time. If an appropriate implementation is available, the application can use it to obtain information about the device’s physical location.

The Java ME Platform SDK includes a simulated location provider. You can use the emulator’s External Events Generator to specify where the emulator should think it is located. In addition, you can configure the properties of the provider itself, and you can manage a database of landmarks.