How has portability concerns changed in recent Java versions?

Portability concerns in Java have evolved significantly with recent versions. Historically, Java was designed with the "write once, run anywhere" principle, which meant that Java applications could run on any device that had the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). Recent advancements have focused on enhancing this portability, especially with the introduction of features like modularization, native image generation, and cloud-native capabilities.

For instance, Java modules (introduced in Java 9) have improved the portability of applications by allowing developers to create more modular and maintainable code. This modular approach ensures that applications can be packaged and run across diverse platforms more easily.

Furthermore, tools such as GraalVM enable the compilation of Java applications into native images, significantly reducing runtime overhead and making it easier to deploy Java applications in environments such as microservices and serverless architectures.

The ongoing improvements and emphasis on compatibility with different operating systems and architectures reflect a commitment to maintaining Java’s core portability benefits while adapting to modern development practices.