A conference talk aimed at Java developers returning to the ecosystem or trying to modernize their Java knowledge. Covers the current Java landscape including the proliferation of JDK distributions, build tools, and cloud-native frameworks. Highlights key modern Java features: virtual threads (Java 21+) as a replacement for reactive programming, GraalVM Native Image for ahead-of-time compilation, and simplified program launch without explicit compilation. Introduces OpenRewrite as a tool for automated, deterministic code migrations between Java versions and frameworks. Also touches on AI integration via Spring AI and LangChain4j, developer experience improvements like hot-reload dev modes, and the human side of modernization — managing team resistance, especially from senior developers. Recommends resources like the Java Almanac, Java Evolved, and Java User Groups for staying current.
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