Java Card技术主要是让智能卡或与智能卡相近的设备上，以具有安全防护性的方式来运行小型的Java Applet，此技术也被广泛运用在SIM卡、提款卡上。

第一个运用Java Card技术的智能卡是在1997年发表，由数家公司所共同采行，包括过去Schlumberger公司的卡片部门（今日为Axlto公司）与Gemplus公司。Java Card的产品皆以Java Card Platform specifications（爪哇卡平台规格）为依循标准，此技术规格标准由升阳电脑所研发。整体而言，Java Card的主要特点及诉求在于移携性与安全性。

Java Card refers to a software technology that allows Java-based applications (applets) to be run securely on smart cards and similar small memory footprint devices. Java Card is the tiniest of Java platforms targeted for embedded devices. Java Card gives the user the ability to program the devices and make them application specific. It is widely used in SIM cards (used in GSM mobile phones) and ATM cards. The first Java Card was introduced in 1996 by Schlumberger's card division which later merged with Gemplus to form Gemalto. Java Card products are based on the Java Card Platform specifications developed by Sun Microsystems (later a subsidiary of Oracle Corporation). Many Java card products also rely on the GlobalPlatform specifications for the secure management of applications on the card (download, installation, personalization, deletion).