When updating my Java installation I was pointed to this notice: https://java.com/en/download/release_notice.js which announces Oracle's intention to require licensing for commercial use as early as next year, and probably for all use after 2020: Public updates for Oracle Java SE 8 released after January 2019 will not be available for business, commercial or production use without a commercial license. If you are a CONSUMER using Java for individual, personal use, you will continue to have the same access to Oracle Java SE 8 updates as you do today through at least the end of 2020. In most instances, the Java-based applications you run are licensed separately by a company other than Oracle (for example, games you play on your PC are likely developed by a gaming company). These applications may run on the Java platform and be dependent on Oracle Java SE 8 updates beyond 2020. Accordingly, Oracle recommends you contact your application provider for details on how they plan to continue to provide application support to you. If you are a DEVELOPER, Oracle recommends you review the roadmap information for Java SE 8 and beyond and take appropriate action depending on the type of application you develop and your distribution model. Are there plans in place to handle Oracle's move? I think they should be publicised prominently. If there are not, it seems a plan is required urgently.