Oracle Unveils Java 24: A Game Changer for Developers

In an exciting announcement, Oracle (ORCL) has unveiled Java 24, also known as Oracle JDK 24, packed with thousands of enhancements aimed at boosting developer productivity and platform performance. This new release stands firm in Oracle’s commitment to advancing Java as a cornerstone in enterprise application development, continuing its renowned six-month release schedule.

What’s New in Java 24?

Java 24 introduces over 20 eye-catching features, including:

• AI Capabilities: Enhance how applications interact and learn.
• Post-Quantum Cryptography: Future-proofing security against emerging threats.
• Structured Concurrency: Simplifying multi-threaded programming.
• Advanced Garbage Collection: Improving memory management efficiency.

These updates not only fortify Java’s capabilities but also ensure that it remains a leading choice for developers across various industries.

Key Features Worth Your Attention

Language Enhancements

The new release comes with several language improvements that make coding smoother and more intuitive:

• Primitive Types in Patterns (JEP 488): Expands pattern matching, allowing for more flexible and efficient coding.
• Flexible Constructor Bodies (JEP 492): Streamlines code by introducing more reliable prologue and epilogue phases.
• Module Import Declarations (JEP 494): Eases the learning curve for beginners and enhances accessibility for AI applications.
• Simple Source Files and Instance Main Methods (JEP 495): Reduces tedious boilerplate code for small programs.

Libraries & API Enhancements

Java 24 elevates its libraries and APIs, making them more effective for application development:

• Stream Gatherers (JEP 485): Optimizes processes for handling data.
• Scoped Values (JEP 487): Enhances sharing of thread-local data.
• Structured Concurrency (JEP 499): Revolutionizes task management for concurrent programming.

Enhanced Security Features

With heightened focus on security, Java 24 rolls out:

• Key Derivation Function API (JEP 478): Streamlining cryptographic processes.
• Quantum-resistant cryptography (JEP 496 & JEP 497): Introducing next-gen key exchange and digital signature methods.

Performance & Runtime Improvements

Java 24 ensures applications run swiftly and efficiently with enhancements such as:

• Linking Run-Time Images without JMODs (JEP 493): Cuts down the JDK size by 25%.
• Compact Object Headers (JEP 450): Increases memory efficiency.
• ZGC Optimization (JEP 490): Boosts performance for concurrent programming.

Deprecations & Future Directions

As part of its evolution, Java 24 phases out certain features, such as support for Windows 32-bit x86 Port (JEP 479) and certain memory-access methods in the unsafe package (JEP 498). This signals Oracle’s commitment to streamlining Java for modern development practices.

Java 24 and Cloud Integration

Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) users can rejoice as Java 24 is engineered to deliver better performance while ensuring enterprise-grade security and cost efficiency. With tools like Oracle Java SE, GraalVM, and the Java SE Subscription Enterprise Performance Pack included at no extra charge, developers can expect a significant boost.

Looking Forward

The innovations in Java 24 reflect Oracle’s dedication to embracing new technologies through community collaboration via the OpenJDK and Java Community Process (JCP). Developers eager to learn more about the exciting prospects of Java are invited to join discussions at JavaOne 2025, scheduled for March 18-20 in Redwood Shores, CA.

As we look ahead, the stock for Oracle traded at $149.45, a decline of 2.96% on the NYSE.

In summary, Java 24 not only emphasizes Oracle’s commitment to continuous improvement but also ensures that developers are well-equipped for the challenges ahead.

The AI Buzz Hub team is excited to see where these breakthroughs take us. Want to stay in the loop on all things AI? Subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with your fellow enthusiasts.