Google finally ditching Java APIs for open-source alternatives in next version of Android

Remember that long, drawn-out, ongoing legal battle between Oracle and Google over whether or not Java’s APIs can be copyrighted and if Google infringed on them and all of that other boring legal garble? Well, it’s still not over, but Google has made an interesting change in regard to the next version of Android.

A new codebase commit seems to imply that Google is dropping Java APIs in favor of the open-source OpenJDK. Google confirmed the change, although they didn’t clarify if it was because they’re legally required to thanks to a recent development in their current legal battle or if they’re simply moving away from Java’s implementation to avoid any more liability in the future.

Google says some new features in Java 8 last year prompted this change, and it does mean that things should be simpler for developers, as they’ll only have one codebase to deal with instead of multiple. Simplicity is always great, but this seems like something Google should have done months or years ago.

This legal battle, and this programming change, mean a lot for the tech industry going forward. Keep an ear out for any major developments over the next few months.

source: Venture Beat

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