The MAOS trap [smart card platforms]

How do the three multi-application operating system (MAOS) smart card platforms (Java Card, MULTOS and Windows for Smart Card) compare? There is so much marketing hype flying around between the three parties that it is very difficult for the uninitiated to determine the real state of affairs. For example, VISA backs Java Card whereas arch-rival in finance, MasterCard, backs MULTOS. In the world of networked computing, Microsoft backs Windows for Smart Card (WfSC) whereas Sun Microsystems backs Java Card. These large international rivals are unlikely to co-operate in developing standards. This article discusses the differences between the three MAOS platforms, concentrating on their unique selling points.