Java Versions Overview¶
This guide covers the five most important Long-Term Support (LTS) releases of Java, from the revolutionary Java 8 to the latest Java 25.
LTS Release Schedule¶
| Version | Release Date | End of Support | Key Theme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Java 8 | March 2014 | December 2030 | Functional Programming |
| Java 11 | September 2018 | September 2026 | Modernization |
| Java 17 | September 2021 | September 2029 | Type Safety |
| Java 21 | September 2023 | September 2031 | Concurrency Revolution |
| Java 25 | September 2025 | September 2033 | Refinements |
Version Highlights¶
Java 8 - The Foundation¶
The release that transformed Java into a modern language with functional programming capabilities.
Key Features:
- Lambda Expressions
- Stream API
- Optional
- Date/Time API
- Default Methods
Java 11 - Modernization¶
Streamlined the language with convenience features and a standard HTTP client.
Key Features:
varkeyword- HTTP Client API
- New String methods
- Files API improvements
Java 17 - Type Safety¶
Introduced powerful type system enhancements for safer, more expressive code.
Key Features:
- Records
- Sealed Classes
- Pattern Matching for instanceof
- Text Blocks
- Switch Expressions
Java 21 - Concurrency Revolution¶
Revolutionary changes to concurrent programming with Virtual Threads.
Key Features:
- Virtual Threads
- Pattern Matching for switch
- Record Patterns
- Sequenced Collections
Java 25 - Refinements¶
Polishes and extends existing features while adding new capabilities.
Key Features:
- Primitive Type Patterns
- Flexible Constructor Bodies
- Scoped Values
- Compact Source Files