There are many embedded devices running Java that are quick and efficient, so whatever slowness those cable boxes have is not due to the technology used. It's p

There are many embedded devices running Java that are quick and efficient, so whatever slowness those cable boxes have is not due to the technology used. It's probably due to the same organisational problems that cause all slow and bloated software. In the case of cable or satellite TV decoders there's usually more focus from management on adding features fast than on making the software bulletproof.