A Java Tier List: Ranking the Features from Java 1.8 to 24

In this session, we'll rank the features added to Java between versions 1.8 and 24 (or whatever version is current at the time). Those include the basic functional features, like streams, lambdas, and method references, through code improvements like switch expressions, records, and pattern matching. We'll include simple topics like LVTI and collection factory methods, as well more recent additions like sealed interfaces and virtual threads. Vote for your favorite (and/or least favorite) feature!

Examples will demonstrate dataoriented programming concepts, combining sealed interfaces, records, pattern matching for switch, and more. Other examples will access RESTful web services, integrate with AI tool, and refactor existing Java 8 code to take advantage of new features.