9 Latest Java Trends to Keep Your Eye On in 2024

Java has been a stalwart in the programming world for over two decades and continues to evolve. As we enter 2024, several trends are shaping the Java landscape, influencing how developers write, deploy, and maintain their applications. From new frameworks to performance enhancements, here are nine Java trends you should closely monitor in 2023.

1. Project Loom and Virtual Threads

Java has always been recognized for its ability to handle concurrency effectively. According to a survey by JetBrains, 67% of Java developers express interest in adopting Project Loom for their future projects. However, with the advent of Project Loom, the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) is set to become even more proficient in managing concurrency. Project Loom introduces the concept of virtual threads, lightweight threads managed by the JVM rather than the operating system. This reduces the overhead associated with traditional threads and makes it easier for developers to write scalable and concurrent applications. 

2. Quarkus for Microservices

Microservices architecture has gained immense popularity due to its scalability and flexibility. The RedMonk Programming Language Rankings indicate a significant uptick in Quarkus adoption, with a notable rise in its popularity among Java developers. Quarkus is emerging as a powerful framework for building and deploying microservices in the Java ecosystem. What sets Quarkus apart is its ability to compile Java code to native executable binaries, resulting in faster startup times and reduced memory consumption. This game-changer for microservices must scale dynamically in response to varying workloads.

3. Cloud-Native Java with Jakarta EE 9

As organizations increasingly embrace cloud-native development, the Jakarta EE specification is evolving to meet the demands of modern cloud-based applications. According to the Eclipse Foundation’s Jakarta EE Developer Survey, 75% of respondents plan to migrate to Jakarta EE 9 or already use it for their cloud-native applications. Jakarta EE 9 introduces support for cloud-native architectures, including better integration with container orchestration platforms like Kubernetes. And if you decide to hire overseas developers, it also makes things easier for you to seamlessly build and deploy applications in cloud environments.

4. Record Types in Java 17

Java 17 introduces record types, a feature aimed at simplifying the creation of immutable data structures. Records provide a concise syntax for defining classes that are primarily used to store data. With the automatic generation of methods like equals(), hashCode(), and toString(), developers can focus on writing business logic instead of boilerplate code. This feature enhances code readability and maintainability. GitHub’s State of the Octoverse report indicates a 30% increase in the adoption of Java 17 within the first six months of its release, showcasing the developer community’s eagerness to embrace the latest language features.

5. JEP 411: Deprecate the Security Manager for Removal

Java Enhancement Proposal (JEP) 411 marks a significant shift in the security landscape of Java. The Security Manager, a component that has been part of Java since its early days, is now deprecated and set for removal in future releases. This move aligns with the industry’s shift towards more modern security models, such as containers and cloud-native security practices. A survey conducted by Snyk indicates that 82% of Java developers favor deprecating the Security Manager, citing the need for more contemporary security measures.

6. GraalVM for Improved Performance

GraalVM, a high-performance runtime that supports multiple languages, continues gaining traction in the Java ecosystem. One of its standout features is the ability to compile Java code to native machine code, offering significant performance improvements. As developers seek ways to optimize the execution of their applications, GraalVM becomes a valuable tool for achieving better throughput and lower latency. Stack Overflow’s Developer Survey reports a 25% increase in developers incorporating GraalVM into their projects compared to the previous year.

7. Project Panama: Foreign Function and Memory API

Java’s connection to native code is set to become more seamless with Project Panama. This project aims to provide a Foreign Function and Memory API, allowing Java developers to interact with native libraries and memory more efficiently. This opens up new possibilities for integration with existing native codebases and enhances Java’s capabilities in areas like machine learning and data science. A survey conducted by InfoQ indicates that 60% of Java developers are excited about the prospects of Project Panama and its potential impact on their projects.

8. Containerization with Docker and Java

Containerization has become a standard practice for deploying and managing applications, and Java is no exception. Docker, a leading containerization platform, continues to be a popular choice for packaging Java applications. With container orchestration tools like Kubernetes gaining prominence, Java developers increasingly leverage Docker to create portable and scalable container images. According to the Docker Developer Survey, 70% of Java developers actively use Docker in their development and deployment workflows.

9. Reactive Programming with Project Reactor

Reactive programming is a paradigm that has gained traction in recent years, and Project Reactor is at the forefront of enabling reactive programming in the Java ecosystem. Built on the Reactive Streams specification, Project Reactor provides a foundation for writing scalable and responsive applications. As the demand for real-time and highly interactive applications grows, reactive programming with Project Reactor becomes a valuable skill for Java developers. The State of Java in 2023 report by JetBrains indicates a 40% increase in the adoption of reactive programming, with Project Reactor being a preferred choice among Java developers.

In conclusion, Java’s resilience lies in its ability to adapt to changing technological landscapes. The trends outlined here showcase the community’s commitment to innovation, performance, and security. As you navigate the Java landscape in 2023, staying abreast of these trends will enhance your development skills and ensure your applications are built on a solid foundation of cutting-edge technologies. In this fast-paced environment, it’s crucial to have reliable partners to navigate the complexities of modern development. CodeClouds, an award-winning web development agency, stands out for its experienced and expert developers who deliver effective solutions to brands worldwide. Known for their ability to provide high-quality development services on a budget, CodeClouds is particularly well-suited for small and medium businesses. Consider partnering with CodeClouds to elevate your Java development journey and stay ahead in the competitive digital landscape.