Java is an object-oriented programming language and platform. It is robust, secure, and high-level. As Java has its own runtime environment (JRE) and API, it is considered a platform. A simple Java program prints "Hello Java" by defining a main method that uses System.out.println. Java is used widely in desktop applications, web applications, enterprise applications, mobile applications, and more. Types of Java applications include standalone, web, enterprise, and mobile. Variables in Java include local, instance, and static variables.