Intel-based Macs: Problems with Java

Note that any Rosetta-running browser that attempts to run Java code using the PowerPC-based Java plug-ins will fail to load Java content on an Intel-based Mac.

One MacFixIt reader writes:

"I can't get any java-based websites to load- no chat, no online games, etc.

"All I get is the Apple Java image (coffee cup with arrows).

"In the Library/Internet Plug-Ins folder the Java Applet.plugin 'get Info' states: version is 11.3.0 ( for Java 1.3.1), and Kind:Plug-in(PowerPC)

"In both the root Library and the User Library it has the same plugin.

As previously reported, the Intel-based Macs includes a new Java Virtual Machine that is Intel-native. This JVM cannot use PowerPC JNI libraries. Also, you cannot use the Intel-native Java Virtual Machine with a browser or any application that uses PowerPC code and launches under Rosetta -- hence the issue with many PowerPC-based browsers attempting to access Java code on Web pages.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

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