S04E06

Borderless

A fresh cup of Java with Jens Knipper

In this podcast episode, host Andraž "Brodul" Brodnik interviews Jens Knipper from OpenValue about the current state of Java, particularly regarding Oracle's licensing model and the migration to alternative Java distributions. Here are the main points discussed:

1. Introduction to Guests and Background: Jens Knipper introduces himself, mentioning his work at OpenValue, which involves consulting and training primarily in the Java space, including migration from Oracle Java to other distributions.

2. Oracle Java Licensing Issues: The discussion highlights recent changes in Oracle's licensing model that have drastically increased costs for companies, especially those in regulated industries like banking and insurance, prompting the need for migration to other Java distributions.

3. Alternative Java Distributions: Jens mentions various alternatives, such as Azul, which provides long-term support and backports fixes. He emphasizes that while Oracle remains relevant, many companies are transitioning to open-source or other vendor distributions due to cost and compliance concerns.

4. Ecosystem Changes: The podcast discusses the evolution of Java distributions, where previously there was a clear distinction between Oracle's JDK and open-source options. Currently, there are no official builds of the JDK, and various distributions now differ in terms of update practices, compliance checks, and performance features.

5. Migration Challenges: Jens explains that while swapping out JDKs can be straightforward, managing the legacy systems and ensuring compliance across numerous installations can be complex. The discussion stresses the importance of carefully evaluating the specific features and optimizations offered by various Java distributions.

6. Compliance and Compatibility: The importance of the Java language specification and compliance kits is highlighted, as they ensure that distributions meet the necessary standards. Migration typically preserves backward compatibility, although unique features in different distributions may require adjustments.

7. Jakarta EE Transition: The conversation touches on the transition from Java EE to Jakarta EE, which is now managed by a community-driven foundation. This change may require adaptations in applications that previously depended on Java EE.

8. Support Options: Different distributions provide various levels of support, with many offering both free and paid options. Companies looking for extended support for older Java versions may incur additional costs.

9. Java in Modern Development: Jens also notes the rising interest in using Java in serverless applications, like Lambda functions, signaling its ongoing relevance in rapidly evolving technology landscapes.

Overall, the podcast provides insight into the complexities of Java's current ecosystem, the implications of licensing changes, and the strategic decisions organizations must make regarding their Java environments.