New Features in JDK 25

Java is one of the most popular programming languages in the world, used to build everything from mobile apps to enterprise software. Every year, Oracle releases new updates to improve Java’s performance, security, and features. JDK 25 (Java Development Kit 25) is the latest version and brings several exciting enhancements for developers. Even if you are new to Java, this guide will help you understand what’s new in JDK 25.

JDK 25

JDK 25 is the latest long-term support (LTS) release of the Java Development Kit, offering performance improvements, new language features, and tools for better developer productivity. It continues to evolve Java’s capabilities while maintaining backward compatibility.

Release Date

JDK 25 is scheduled for release in September 2025 as part of Oracle’s six-month release cadence for Java.

What’s new in JDK 25

• Class-File API (Second Preview)
• Structured Concurrency (Third Preview)
• Unnamed Classes and Instance Main Methods (Second Preview)
• Launch Multi-File Source-Code Programs
• Stream Gatherers (Preview)
• Primitive Types in Patterns, instanceof, and switch (Preview)
• Improvements to the Z Garbage Collector

Class-File API (Second Preview)

Provides a standard way to read, analyze, and modify Java class files, making it easier to build tools that work with bytecode.

Structured Concurrency (Third Preview)

Improves how Java handles multiple tasks (threads) by treating them as a single unit, simplifying error handling and cancellation.

Unnamed Classes and Instance Main Methods (Second Preview)

Simplifies writing Java programs for beginners by allowing code to run without needing to define a class explicitly.

Launch Multi-File Source-Code Programs

Allows developers to run Java programs made of multiple files without compiling them first, streamlining development.

Stream Gatherers (Preview)

Adds a new way to collect and process stream data flexibly, giving more control over how data is grouped and reduced.

Primitive Types in Patterns, instanceof, and switch (Preview)

Enables using primitive types (like int, double) in pattern matching and switch expressions, making code more readable and powerful.

Improvements to the Z Garbage Collector

Enhances the ZGC to use less memory and perform better, especially in cloud and large-scale applications.

FAQs for JDK 25

What is JDK 25?

JDK 25 is the latest version of the Java Development Kit, including new features, tools, and performance improvements for Java developers.

When will JDK 25 be released?

JDK 25 is expected to be released in September 2025.

Do I need to upgrade to JDK 25?

If you’re using an older version, especially for production systems, upgrading can bring performance benefits and access to new features.

Will JDK 25 break my existing code?

Java maintains strong backward compatibility. Most existing code will continue to work, but testing is recommended before upgrading.

Is JDK 25 an LTS release?

No, JDK 25 is not an LTS release. The next LTS release after JDK 21 will be JDK 27 (expected in 2026).

Where can I download JDK 25?

You can download it from the official Oracle website or use open-source distributions like OpenJDK once it’s released.