July 23, 2026

Competition invites developers to build real-world applications using Java 26

PHOENIX – July 23, 2026: Hackster.io, an Avnet community, has launched Modern Java in the Wild, a US-focused design challenge encouraging developers, engineers and makers to create innovative applications using Java 26, the latest release of the Java programming language.

Open through August 16, 2026, the competition invites participants to develop solutions that address real-world challenges across health, hobbies and home life. From AI-powered assistants and wellness applications to smart home automation and connected devices, participants are challenged to use Java 26 to bring creative ideas to life.

“Some of the most exciting innovations happen when developers apply familiar technologies in unexpected ways,” said Dianne Kibbey Senior Director, Community Strategy and Hackster.io at Avnet. “Modern Java in the Wild challenges our community to take Java 26 beyond traditional use cases and create solutions that address real-world needs. We’re excited to see how developers use the latest version of Java to solve everyday challenges, explore new ideas and bring their creativity to life.”

The challenge includes three project categories:

  • Best Health Solution for projects that support personal health, wellness or accessibility.
  • Best Hobby Solution for projects that enhance recreational activities, creativity or personal interests.
  • Best Home Solution for projects that address everyday lifestyle challenges through automation, insights, data analysis or artificial intelligence.

Participants are encouraged to combine Java 26 with existing devices and platforms, including smartphones, cameras, wearables, microcontrollers, and IoT hardware, creating solutions that bridge software innovation and the physical world.

Thousands of dollars in prizes will be awarded to the top four qualifying projects based on innovation, technical execution, impact and overall project quality.  Winners will be announced in September 2026.

For more information and to register, visit https://www.hackster.io/contests/modern-java-in-the-wild.

About Hackster.io 

Hackster.io, an Avnet community, is the world’s largest network of hardware and embedded developers where more than 2 million members come to learn, program, build and share electronics projects. Avnet’s ecosystem provides support to bring fresh ideas to market, with access to a network of 300-plus supplier partners, global supply chain expertise and technical know-how, guiding the journey from prototype to production.