The OpenJDK project has released the first code for the Apple-backed open source version of Java Development Kit 7 for Mac OS X.

The initial code – a BSD port – is now available from the new Mac OS X Port Project on the OpenJDK website. The project already offers a mailing list and project wiki, and a bug reporter in on the way. The latest developments are available from the project status page.

In mid-November, weeks after Apple said it would deprecate the existing incarnation of Mac Java, Steve Jobs and company calmed developer fears by announcing they would join Oracle's OpenJDK effort, contributing "most of the key components, tools, and technology" for a Java SE 7 implementation on Mac OS X. This includes a 32-bit and 64-bit HotSpot-based Java virtual machine, class libraries, a networking stack, and the "foundation" for a new graphical client.

Java SE 6 is still available with Mac OS X Snow Leopard, and it will also be included with the upcoming Lion release of the OS. But after Lion's release, all future versions of the OS will not include Java. Instead, developers will obtain Java for Mac from Oracle. ®

Update: This story has been updated to make it clear that the initial code is a BSD port.

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