What Is New in Jakarta EE Platform 9.1
Jakarta EE 9.1 is a compatible update that focuses on delivering the new core profile and integrating the latest versions of its component specifications. It builds directly on the foundational namespace change from javax.* to jakarta.* introduced in version 9.0.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| New Profile | Introduction of the Jakarta EE Core Profile |
| Specification Updates | Integration of newer versions of key specs like JSON Processing and Concurrency |
| Compatibility | Maintains full compatibility with Jakarta EE 9.0 |
What is the new Core Profile?
The headline feature of Jakarta EE 9.1 is the official introduction of the Core Profile. This profile defines a streamlined subset of the full platform, offering a lighter-weight foundation for modern applications.
It includes essential APIs like CDI, Jakarta REST, JSON Processing, and Jakarta Servlet, but omits larger specifications geared toward more complex, traditional applications. In practice, this is perfect for developing microservices or smaller-scale applications where the full Jakarta EE Web or Platform profiles would be overkill.
Which specifications received updates?
Jakarta EE 9.1 pulls in newer, compatible releases of several component specifications. This ensures all integrated specs are aligned with the jakarta.* namespace and include their latest minor improvements.
Updated Specifications
- Jakarta JSON Processing 2.1
- Jakarta Concurrency 2.1
- Jakarta JSON Binding 2.1
- Jakarta Server Pages 3.1
- Jakarta Standard Tag Library 3.1
- Jakarta WebSocket 2.1
Is this release compatible with Jakarta EE 9.0?
Yes, absolutely. Jakarta EE 9.1 is a fully compatible release with its predecessor, version 9.0. This means any application written for Jakarta EE 9.0 will run unchanged on a Jakarta EE 9.1 compatible implementation.
The primary goal was to add the new Core Profile and integrate specification updates without introducing any breaking changes. This makes the upgrade path from 9.0 to 9.1 straightforward and risk-free for development teams.
FAQ
Do I need to change my code to move from Jakarta EE 9.0 to 9.1?
No. Jakarta EE 9.1 is fully compatible with 9.0. Your existing code should run without any modifications on a 9.1 implementation.
What is the main use case for the new Core Profile?
The Core Profile is designed for modern, lightweight applications like microservices. It provides essential APIs (CDI, REST, JSON, Servlet) without the overhead of the full platform or web profiles.
Are there any new APIs I need to learn for 9.1?
No, there are no brand-new APIs. The release integrates updated versions of existing specs, so you'll be working with the same APIs but potentially with minor enhancements from their respective point releases.
Why would I choose 9.1 over 9.0 for a new project?
You get the benefit of the latest stable versions of all component specifications and the option to use the new, lighter Core Profile if your architecture calls for it.
Where can I find the official specifications for Jakarta EE 9.1?
The complete Jakarta EE 9.1 Platform and Core Profile specifications are available on the Jakarta EE website for detailed reference.