JSRs

JSR stands for Java Specification Request. It is a formal document submitted to the Java Community Process (JCP) that describes a proposed specification for the Java platform. A JSR may define new APIs, language features, runtime requirements, or other aspects of the platform. Each JSR is assigned a unique number and, once completed, represents an official Java specification or API.

The JSR process typically begins with a proposal developed by an Expert Group (EG) composed of industry participants and experts. The draft specification goes through public reviews and comment periods, after which it may be revised. A final approval vote by the JCP Executive Committee determines whether the JSR becomes part of the platform. Upon approval, accompanying deliverables usually include a reference implementation (RI) and a Technology Compatibility Kit (TCK) to test conformance. The RI and TCK help ensure interoperable implementations across Java runtimes and environments.

Impact and scope: JSRs formalize standards across Java platforms, including core Java APIs, language features, and runtime behaviors. They provide a mechanism for coordinated development, compatibility, and portability, helping libraries and frameworks rely on stable interfaces and semantics. The status and history of individual JSRs are tracked on the JCP site, with labels such as Final, Active, or Maintenance.

Governance: The JCP is an open process that accepts participation from individuals, companies, and organizations. JSRs are managed by specification leads and expert groups under the oversight of the JCP program. This framework aims to balance innovation with compatibility and broad ecosystem support, coordinating feature development, licensing considerations, and conformance testing.