What's New in JDK 24: A Look at the Latest Java Features

Java Development Kit (JDK) 23 launched on September 17, 2023, and developers are already preparing for the next big release: JDK 24, set for March 18, 2025. Although it's not a long-term support (LTS) release, JDK 24 introduces some exciting features and enhancements worth exploring. Here's what’s on the horizon for Java developers:

Key Features Proposed for JDK 24:

• Vector API (Ninth Incubation)
  A major performance booster, the vector API optimizes vector computations on supported CPU architectures like x64 and AArch64. This feature, incubated since JDK 16, helps achieve better runtime performance and integrates with Project Valhalla to enhance the Java object model.

• Class-File API
  After being previewed in JDK 22 and JDK 23, the class-file API is set to be finalized in JDK 24. It provides a standardized way to parse, generate, and transform Java class files, making it easier to handle class file formats defined by the JVM specification. Eventually, this will replace the internal use of the third-party ASM library within the JDK.

• Preparing for Future Restrictions on JNI (Java Native Interface)
  JDK 24 will issue warnings to developers about unsafe uses of JNI, paving the way for stricter restrictions in future releases. The idea is to ensure that JNI and the Foreign Function and Memory (FFM) API work together seamlessly, allowing developers to migrate smoothly without having to change command-line options.

• G1 Garbage Collector Enhancements
  The G1 garbage collector will receive a late barrier expansion update, simplifying its barrier system. This improvement will make the barriers more understandable to developers and improve performance for those using the C2 compiler.

What Else Could Be Included?

As development progresses, additional features may be added to JDK 24. Some possibilities include:

• Stream Gatherers
  Enhancements to the stream API for more customizable intermediate operations.

• Module Import Declarations
  A new way to simplify the import process for modular libraries.

• Primitive Type Patterns in Pattern Matching
  Expanding pattern matching to support primitive types, alongside instanceof and switch statements.

• Ahead-of-Time Class Loading
  A feature designed to speed up Java startups, making applications more responsive.

While JDK 24 is a non-LTS release and will only receive six months of Premier support, it offers valuable tools for developers eager to stay ahead of the curve. Many of the new features will help improve performance, streamline workflows, and pave the way for future Java innovations.

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Whether you're exploring new APIs or preparing for JDK 25’s LTS release, JDK 24 gives you a preview of what's to come in the Java ecosystem.