1. Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) in Java

Java is a true-blue object-oriented programming (OOP) language. It embraces fundamental OOP concepts like classes, objects, and inheritance. This strong support for OOP enables developers to create well-structured, modular, and easily maintainable code.

Classes & Objects: The building blocks of Java, where classes are blueprints and objects are instances of these blueprints.

Inheritance: Allows for inheriting attributes and methods from another class.

Polymorphism: Let developers use methods in different ways for different data types.

Encapsulation: Bundling of data and methods into a single unit or class.

Abstraction: Hiding complex implementation details and showing only the necessary features.

2. Java’s Platform Independence

The Java Virtual Machine (JVM) lets Java code run on any device. When Java code is written and compiled, it becomes bytecode. The JVM then runs this bytecode on any system, making Java versatile for different devices. 

This “write once, run anywhere” approach is why many choose Java for apps that work across platforms. Additionally, the JVM takes care of memory, security, and ensures the code runs efficiently.

3. Java Development Kit (JDK)

The Java Development Kit (JDK) equips developers with tools to create, compile, and debug Java apps. It contains the Java compiler, turning source code into executable bytecode, and standard libraries for various functions like networking. 

After installing the JDK, developers can use text editors or IDEs for coding. The JDK offers tools for compiling, running, and debugging, along with helpful documentation and examples

4. Syntax and Data Types

Java’s syntax, rooted in the C language, is familiar to many developers. It enforces clear rules for consistent, readable code. Java organizes code into classes, the core units containing methods and variables.

Java supports a wide range of data types, including primitive types such as integers, floating-point numbers, characters, and booleans. It also provides several reference types, such as arrays, classes, and interfaces, which allow for more complex data structures and object-oriented programming. 

5. Robustness and Security

Java, since its inception, has been developed with a clear focus on creating reliable and error-free applications. Its design principles prioritize the creation of stable software, reducing the chances of unexpected failures and vulnerabilities.

1. Exception Handling

Java’s robust exception handling allows developers to manage unexpected errors effectively. Instead of abrupt program termination seen in some languages, Java throws exceptions that developers can catch and address, ensuring smooth program execution and enhancing both user experience and application resilience.

2. Security Features

Java prioritizes security through several defense layers:

a) Bytecode Verification: Java checks bytecode before execution to ensure it meets safety standards, guarding against harmful alterations.

b) Runtime Security: Java continuously scans running applications for threats, halting any potentially harmful actions.

c) Sandboxing: Java applets in browsers run in a restricted ‘sandbox’ environment, preventing unauthorized access or modifications to the host system.”

6. Multithreading Capabilities

Java strongly supports multithreading and concurrency, allowing programs to run multiple tasks at once for better performance. Java’s Thread class represents threads, and its Thread API helps manage them. 

Built-in tools like locks ensure safe access to shared resources. Features like thread pools and the Executor framework make managing and executing tasks more efficient, enabling the creation of responsive and scalable applications.

7. Java’s Memory Management

Java’s automatic garbage collection ensures efficient memory usage.

Garbage Collector:  Its primary role is to scan and identify portions of memory that are no longer being used by applications. By doing so, it ensures efficient utilization of memory resources. Periodically frees up memory that is no longer in use, preventing memory leaks.

This automated system means developers don’t have to manually manage memory allocation and deallocation.

8. Rich Standard Library and frameworks

Java boasts an extensive standard library that covers a wide range of functions, from basic I/O operations to advanced data manipulation. This rich library simplifies common programming tasks and accelerates development by providing pre-built, reliable components.

Notable examples of Java libraries and frameworks include Spring for enterprise applications, Hibernate for database management, Apache Commons for reusable components, and Log4j for logging. These represent just a fraction of the resources available to Java developers.

9. Modern Features in Recent Java Versions

Java continues to evolve, with newer versions introducing features that enhance coding efficiency and readability. For instance:

Lambda Expressions: Allows for a concise way to write instances of single-method interfaces.

Modules: Helps in modularizing code, making it more maintainable.

Local-Variable Type Inference: Let developers use ‘var’ for variable declaration, making the code cleaner.

Java stands as a powerful and enduring programming language, known for its simplicity, platform independence, support for object-oriented programming, rich standard library, exceptional exception handling, multithreading capabilities, robust security features, and vibrant developer toolset. 

As a programmer, understanding these key features of Java will not only empower you but also expand your opportunities in the world of software development.