Executing a jar on mac 10.8

Question

Although this seems like a rather obvious question, I couldn't find the answer anywhere online.

After I create the jar file, I can run it successfully using the command line by saying

java -jar filename.jar

However, I want this file to be a bit more user-friendly, in other words, run on double click. For some reason when I double click the jar file the mac jar launcher (Jar\ Launcher.app) opens, pauses one second then closes. I appreciate the help.

Ps. I have made jar files through the command line, bluej, and eclipse, none of these ways solved the issue.

Answer 1

I would create a shell script to enclose it in terminal:

#!/bin/bash
java -jar yourjarfile.jar
read -p 'Hit [Enter] to continue...'

I added pause, but unless your java application is immediately reaching termination, it shouldn't be necessary (you can stop the shell script after the "java" line).

Answer 2

There is a program on OS X called Jar Bundler that comes with your install of Xcode developer tools. You can use this to convert .jar files to native Mac OS X .app executables.

Answer 3

You need Java WebStart, snippet from the link Java Web Start software provides the power to launch full-featured applications with a single click. Users can download and launch applications, such as a complete spreadsheet program or an Internet chat client, without going through lengthy installation procedures