I would definitely like to know the compatibility status for this.

Here is something related.

I haven't been able to automatically download Java 6 but I found a link to download it.

Here: http://connect.apple.com/cgi-bin/WebObjects/MemberSite.woa/wa/getSoftware?bundleID=20773
A free Developer Account is needed.

Thanks Rolandius.

The problem is, the OpenJDK is notoriously incompatible with most Java applications (they will run, but behave unexpectedly), and doesn't include Mac OS X integration like the Apple JDK does.

As Apple has dropped support for the JRE as of 10.7 Lion, and it's being developed open-source, this is the first time where I'm uncertain just how compatible my applications will actually be.

Perhaps I should find a way to test this myself. Is it possible to install the 10.7 preview in a virtual machine, or on a separate partition using BootCamp? I'd prefer to continue using 10.6 at the same time as my main OS. Will see if I can find out…

Edit: To clarify, I have no doubt that it will be available and working, the question is just how compatible it will actually be, and what features are included in terms of integrating into the Mac OS X environment and acting like a native Mac application.

You should be able to install 10.7 on something like a separate partition or an external hard drive.

I thought BootCamp had to do with installing Windows on a Mac though?

As far as I am aware BootCamp is simply a tool that makes it easier to partition your hard drive. Correct me if I'm wrong¹.

That means you can then install any OS that supports the hardware on the new partition: Windows, Linux, or another version of Mac OS X.

I see. I thought Disk Utility did that stuff.

I'm a fairly new Mac owner, so I may misunderstand a couple things.

However, I've just taken a quick look at Disk Utility and I don't think it allows you to partition the hard drive like BootCamp does.

I can see options to backup and restore via disk image, and mount/unmount/eject any detachable drives (which can already be done by dragging to the trash can anyway). Other than that, Disk Utility doesn't seem to do much from what I can see.

It can do those things. Below that though, when the drive is selects, it shows First Aid, Erase, Partition, RAID, and Restore. :)