Java is a popular, object-oriented programming language that is used for building web, mobile, and desktop applications. It was developed by Sun Microsystems (now part of Oracle Corporation) in the mid-1990s and has since become one of the most widely used programming languages in the world.

One of the key features of Java is that it is platform-independent, meaning that Java programs can run on any device that has a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) installed, regardless of the underlying hardware and operating system. This makes Java a popular choice for building applications that need to be deployed across a wide range of devices and platforms.

Java is known for its simplicity, reliability, and security, and it is used in a variety of settings, including enterprise software development, scientific computing, and financial applications. It is also widely used in Android app development, as the official programming language for Android.