Java is a popular programming language released in 1995. It is object-oriented, platform independent, and allows programs to run on many systems. Java programs can be developed for desktop applications, mobile apps, games, and enterprise software using powerful tools like Eclipse and NetBeans. There are three key Java platforms: Java SE for standard edition, Java EE for enterprise applications, and Java ME for micro devices. Java is widely used today for web applications, servers, and more due to its advantages of being easy to use, secure, and reliable.