JRuby 10 to Launch in Early 2025 with Ruby 3.4 Compatibility
The JRuby project, which has provided a JVM-based implementation of Ruby since 2001, is preparing to release JRuby 10 shortly after the start of 2025. This upcoming version is set to be fully compatible with Ruby 3.4.0, an anticipated Ruby update that introduces changes to frozen string literals and class updates. In addition, JRuby 10 will support Rails 7.1 and later, making it a significant update for developers using Ruby on the JVM.
For the first time, JRuby will ship in sync with the latest Ruby release, marking an important milestone for the project, according to JRuby project co-leader Charles Oliver Nutter. With JRuby 10, developers will need a minimum of Java 17 or Java 21, allowing the implementation to leverage modern JVM features. This move ensures JRuby remains optimized for performance, scalability, and compatibility with the evolving Java ecosystem.
One of the most anticipated enhancements in JRuby 10 is support for virtual threads from Java’s Project Loom, which will allow for improved fiber implementation in Ruby. “We are constantly pushing the edges of what Ruby and dynamic languages can do on the JVM,” said Nutter. “By integrating the latest OpenJDK features, JRuby continues to be the best way to scale Ruby and Rails applications to an enterprise level.”
While Ruby itself continues to power many startup and enterprise applications, it has entered a more utilitarian phase with fewer high-profile advancements. In contrast, JRuby remains a compelling option for companies looking to take advantage of the JVM’s extensive ecosystem. Beyond traditional web applications, JRuby also enables developers to build desktop applications, mobile apps for Android, and even deploy to alternative operating systems, making it a versatile choice for Ruby enthusiasts.