In a bold move that could shake up the Java ecosystem, Microsoft has introduced its own version of OpenJDK, aiming to offer a competitive alternative to Oracle’s Java distribution. The new release, called Microsoft Build of OpenJDK, is a freely available, long-term support distribution of open-source Java. This announcement is likely to stir competition in the Java market, as Microsoft aims to position itself as a key player alongside Oracle.
The Microsoft Build of OpenJDK includes binaries for Java 11 on popular operating systems like Windows, Linux, and macOS. Additionally, the company has provided an early-access version of Java 16 for Windows on ARM. This move aligns with Microsoft’s strategy to cater to a broad range of platforms, ensuring that users have access to Java on diverse environments. Users can easily download the builds from Microsoft’s website, and those utilizing Microsoft Azure can test the builds through Azure Cloud Shell.
Microsoft’s Java 11 builds are based on OpenJDK source code, with the same build scripts used by the Eclipse Adoptium project (formerly known as AdoptOpenJDK). The binaries have successfully passed the Java Technology Compatibility Kit (TCK) for Java 11, ensuring compatibility with the Java standard. Microsoft has committed to providing support for Java 11 at least until 2024, with Java 17 binaries expected to be available by the end of the year. The company is also extending support for Java 8 binaries through Eclipse Adoptium on its Azure cloud platform.
By entering the Java space with its own distribution, Microsoft is directly targeting Oracle’s dominant position in the market. The company acknowledges Java as one of the most vital programming languages, essential for everything from large enterprise applications to smaller projects like hobbyist robots. As Java usage continues to grow across Microsoft’s cloud services and development tools, the launch of its own OpenJDK distribution marks a strategic step to cater to its expanding customer base and potentially challenge Oracle’s hold on the Java market.