Java 11 Upcoming Features and Their Differences from Java 9 and 10

Java 11 is scheduled for release in September 2018, and the JDK repository is already open for bug fixes and new enhancement proposals. Four JEPs are planned for the next version:

1. Local‑Variable Syntax for Lambda Parameters

This JEP allows the use of var in the formal parameters of implicitly‑typed lambda expressions, aligning the syntax with local‑variable type inference introduced in Java 10. For example, instead of writing (x, y) -> x.process(y) you can write (var x, var y) -> x.process(y) .

It also enables concise declarations such as:

var list = new ArrayList
();
var stream = getStream();

replacing the more verbose:

List
list = new ArrayList
();
Stream
stream = getStream();

2. Epsilon: A No‑Op Garbage Collector

Epsilon is an “no‑op” garbage collector that handles memory allocation without performing any actual reclamation, providing a low‑overhead option for workloads that manage their own memory.

3. Dynamic Class‑File Constants

This proposal extends the Java class‑file format with a new constant‑pool entry CONSTANT_Dynamic , allowing constants to be computed at runtime via user‑provided bootstrap methods, reducing the cost of introducing new constant forms.

4. Removal of Java EE and CORBA Modules

Following the deprecation of these modules in Java 9, they will be completely removed from the Java SE platform and SDK, completing the cleanup started in the previous release.

Beyond New Features

In addition to the functional enhancements, Java 11 will be an LTS (Long‑Term Support) release. Oracle’s shift to a faster, time‑driven release cadence aims to deliver innovations quickly while still providing a stable platform that receives extended support every three years (or every six releases).

The article concludes that Java 9 began the evolution of the platform with the Jigsaw project, Java 10 introduced local‑variable type inference, and Java 11 combines these improvements with a robust LTS model, signaling continued innovation and stability from Oracle.