Most recent developments listed first.
September 2024
Any new updates for Oracle Java v17, 18, 19, 20 – which were initially no-cost under the NFTC agreement – will now be released under the OTN. So a subscription will be required for almost all types of usage. Oracle programs do not use these versions of Java, so existing Oracle customers will not be able to claim an Oracle program usage exception. We expect Oracle will be tracking downloads very closely and reaching out to any customers who download the latest patches for Java 17-20.
2024 generally
Oracle ramping up actual audits of Java customers.
October 2023
Oracle blocking legacy subscription renewals for many clients unless installation/hardware data is shared from all machines – Oracle is requiring data from all machines/environments, even machines that do not have Java!
July 2023
- Oracle ramps up “stealth” audits of Java.
- Non-contractual Java license FAQ now reads, “Customers of the legacy Java SE Subscription may, to the extent permitted in their existing order, renew their legacy Java Subscription, subject to confirmation that current usage is reflective of license counts in such existing order.” Oracle added a “validation” requirement for customers to renew legacy Java licenses under Processor or Named User (essentially must agree to an Oracle audit to renew the subscription every year).
- Oracle adding language to legacy Java customer contracts that forbid a future renewal (must move to Employee subscription model if renewed in the future).
- Updates will not be free starting in 2024.
Read more about the July 2023 Java license FAQ change.
January 2023
- Oracle announces it’s no longer offering subscription Java on Processor or Named User Plus models.
- Only Java model available is Employee-based license – need to license all FT, PT, temp employees, and contractors.
- Existing Java subscription clients can renew Java contracts under the same “terms” and “Metrics”.
Find out more about the January 2023 changes to how Oracle licenses Java.
2022
- Java is still easily downloadable.
- Oracle sales ramps up selling Java.
- Quasi audits.
- Oracle LMS and SIA are getting involved with audits.
- Customers who want to buy Java and need e.g. 500 licenses are being told they’re not going to get a quote until they tell all about their virtualization.
- Java ULAs.
Watch our October 2022 video summary of the changes to how Oracle licenses Java.
2021
- Oracle changes the way it licenses Java.
- Oracle starts using collected data (time/date, version of installation, and IP address of the installer) in licensing and compliance “conversations” with clients.
- September – Oracle introducing the NFTC license for Java 17+. Where Java and subsequent updates are not cost-based on LTS release schedules, then updates/patches will transition to licensable unless customers upgrade to next LTS version.