Chemaxon blog

Java version requirement plans for Chemaxon products

Written by Chemaxon | 11 11 2025

Chemaxon has been building Java based chemistry tools since 1996. Our focus has always been on making sure that our clients can rely on our products to run their business without any hiccups. We have always been at the frontier of adapting new technologies through the rise of applets, their removal from the JDK, and all other changes – our tools kept working. 

 

As you know, we receive a new Java version every 6 months. These updates add new features, but more importantly, older versions lose support (or at least free support). 

 

We plan to make version 25 the last release compatible with Java 17 in line with Oracle ending Java 17 premier support in 2026 September. We plan to still provide security and critical fixes to version 25 at least until the end of 2027.

 

Version 26, expected in 2026 Q1, will be the first version that requires Java 21 as a minimum Java version. That version is going to receive updates at least until the end of 2028. Based on the current plans of Oracle, we plan our version 27, expected in 2027 Q1, to still be on Java 21, and to provide updates to that version at least until the end of 2029.

 

Our version 28 is expected in 2028 Q1, and it is planned to be the first version that requires Java 25 minimum. This release is planned to receive updates at least until the end of 2030.

 

This is all dependent on Oracle’s Java updates, so take this as a declaration of intent.

Our plans may adapt to yet unknown challenges, but one thing is certain: business continuity for our customers remains our top priority. We keep working on providing the best chemistry products in the fastest, safest and most modern way possible.

 

See our planned timeline in the table below:

Release version Release date  Minimum Java version  Java premier support until Chemaxon active support until Chemaxon long-term support until 
Version 25 2025 January Java 17 2026 September End of 2025 At least the end of 2027
Version 26 2026 Q1  Java 21  2028 September End of 2026 At least the end of 2028
Version 27 2027 Q1  Java 21  2028 September End of 2027 At least the end of 2029
Version 28 2028 Q1  Java 25 2030 September End of 2028 At least the end of 2030
Version 29 2029 Q1  Java 25 2030 September End of 2029 At least the end of 2030
Version 30 2030 Q1  Java 29 2032 September (expected) End of 2030 At least the end of 2032