Java 24 Release - March 2025
Oracle released Java 24 on March 18, 2025, as the latest version of the Java SE Platform. This release represents the Reference Implementation of Java SE Platform version 24 as specified by JSR 399 in the Java Community Process.
Key Features:
- Stream Gatherers: A new enhancement that gives developers fine-grained control over how elements are grouped and processed within streams, making complex data transformations more expressive and efficient
- The final feature set includes 24 JEPs (Java Enhancement Proposals), with two being Generational Shen (Java 24 New Experimental features)
- Enhancements to the platform's performance, stability, and security to help organizations accelerate their business growth (Oracle Releases Java 24)
Java Release Schedule Updates - Java 25 LTS
Oracle has confirmed that Java SE 8, 11, 17 and 21 are LTS (Long Term Support) releases, with Oracle intending to make future LTS releases every two years, meaning the next planned LTS release is Java 25 in September 2025.
Feature releases are scheduled for release in the middle of March and September, maintaining Oracle's established release cadence.
Java Community Events
JavaOne 2025 conference took place in Redwood Shores, CA on March 18-20, 2025, coinciding with Java's approach to its 30th anniversary. The Inside Java Newsletter for May 2025 celebrates Java's 30th birthday and includes content from JavaOne 2025.
Developer Trends
According to a study on AI/ML published by Evansdata, 37% of developers use Java, falling only slightly behind JavaScript and Python. (source) The study also notes that Java is often used in large project enterprise environments and offers a strong foundation in AI/ML applications.
According to Perforce's 2025 Developer Productivity Report, only about half of Java shops plan on adding developers in 2025, while use of AI for Java development has significantly increased. Java | InfoWorld