Sun Microsystems, Inc. announced its intent to create a Java platform standard extension for XML through the Java Community Process. The XML standard extension will be an industry-developed API that enterprises and developers can rely on for high quality XML language integration with the Java platform. Sun has outlined an initial version of the XML standard extension that provides basic functionality including the ability to read, manipulate, and generate XML technology-based data streams and formats. These core features form the building blocks for developing fully-functional XML language oriented applications. The XML standard extension will consist of a specification, reference implementation, and compatibility test suite. The XML standard extension will conform to the XML 1.0 specification, will leverage existing efforts around other Java technology-based APIs, and will be developed using the Java Community Process. http://java.sun.com/xml