New Features in Java – JDK21
Java 21 introduces several new features and enhancements. Here are some of the key updates with detailed descriptions:
1. Pattern Matching for switch
This feature enhances the switch statement and expression to use pattern matching. It allows more concise and readable code when handling multiple conditions and types.
2. Record Patterns
Record patterns allow deconstruction of record values within pattern matching, enabling more expressive and compact code.
3. Pattern Matching for instanceof
Pattern matching for instanceof simplifies the common idiom of checking if an object is of a certain type and then casting it.
4. Foreign Function & Memory API
This API provides a way to interoperate with native code and manage native memory outside the JVM. It offers a safer and more efficient alternative to JNI (Java Native Interface).
5. Virtual Threads
Virtual threads are lightweight threads that aim to make concurrent programming simpler and more scalable. They allow applications to create many more threads than traditional platform threads.
6. String Templates (Preview)
String templates introduce a new way to create strings with embedded expressions, improving readability and maintainability of string manipulation code.
