From native code gems to Java treasures with jextract by Ana-Maria Mihalceanu

Rust Python

Discover how jextract automates Java-native code integration through Project Panama's FFM API. Learn to generate bindings for C, Python & Rust libraries efficiently and safely.

Key takeaways

jextract is a tool that automates generating Java bindings for native libraries with C headers, replacing manual JNI code
Project Panama aims to replace JNI long-term with FFM (Foreign Function Memory) API for simpler native interop
FFM API has been stable since JDK 22 and provides more efficient memory management through Arenas
Key native library integration examples demonstrated:
- C time libraries
- Python integration
- Rust libraries
- OpenGL/Graphics libraries
Common jextract workflow:
1. Start with native library header files (.h)
2. Generate Java bindings using jextract command
3. Use generated bindings in Java code through FFM API
Important jextract flags:
- -I for include paths
- -t/--target for target library
- --output for generated code location
- --source for filtering specific functions
For Mac systems, additional flags and XCode installation may be required
Arena management is crucial for memory safety when working with native code
The Panama team actively accepts feedback and contributions from developers
Growing ecosystem includes adaptations like jextract-swing for specialized use cases

From native code gems to Java treasures with jextract by Ana-Maria Mihalceanu

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