New Features in Java (JVA501)

This course provides an in-depth exploration of Java's modular system and the new features introduced in recent Java versions. It is tailored for experienced Java developers who want to understand and implement Java Modules, leverage type inference, and utilize new tools and APIs like JShell and the updated HttpClient. The course covers practical techniques and best practices, helping you stay current with modern Java development standards.

The course begins with an Introduction to Modules, where you’ll learn the motivation behind the Java Platform Module System (JPMS). You'll explore different types of modules, the modular JDK, and how modularization helps improve application performance and maintainability. This section sets the stage by explaining the benefits of adopting modular architecture in your projects.

In the Working with Java Modules section, you'll gain hands-on experience in defining and using Java modules. You’ll learn how to create module definitions, manage dependencies, and use services to build loosely coupled applications. The module also covers compatibility and migration strategies for transitioning legacy applications to a modular structure, ensuring smooth integration of modularity into your existing codebase.

The Type Inference module introduces local-variable type inference with the var keyword, a feature that simplifies Java syntax without sacrificing type safety. You’ll explore how type inference works, its limitations, and its impact on readability and maintainability. The section also provides a brief overview of lambdas and introduces local-variable syntax for lambda expressions, enhancing your ability to write concise and expressive code.

The JShell section covers the Java Shell tool, an interactive REPL (Read-Eval-Print Loop) introduced in Java 9. You'll learn how to use JShell to experiment with code, test snippets, and explore new APIs in an interactive environment. The module also explains how to use external libraries, including modules and JAR files, within JShell, making it a valuable tool for rapid prototyping and testing.

In the HttpClient module, you’ll explore the updated HttpClient API, which provides a modern, efficient way to handle HTTP requests in Java. You'll learn about the key features of the new API, including asynchronous requests, HTTP/2 support, and simplified usage patterns. Practical exercises will guide you through building applications that communicate with web services using this powerful API.

The Other New Features section highlights additional updates in recent Java versions, including collection factory methods, multi-release JARs, and reactive programming enhancements. You’ll learn how these features simplify common programming tasks, improve code flexibility, and allow for more responsive application designs. This module also covers miscellaneous updates that enhance Java’s overall functionality and developer experience.

Finally, the Custom Runtime Images module teaches you how to create application-specific runtimes using jlink. You'll learn the benefits of custom runtime images, such as reduced application size and improved security. The section guides you through the process of building a custom runtime tailored to your application's needs, enabling you to optimize performance and resource usage.

By the end of this course, you’ll have a thorough understanding of Java’s modular system and the latest features in the Java platform. You’ll be equipped to write cleaner, more efficient code, leverage new tools and APIs, and modernize your applications to take full advantage of the latest Java advancements.