# Modernizing Java with Cursor and GitLab

AI and CI/CD integration in the transition from Java 8 to Java 21.

- **Source:** [GitLab](https://brifing.si/source/76101668-80db-4240-8676-e968d2b72546)
- **Published:** 2026-07-22
- **Topic:** [Software & Engineering](https://brifing.si/c/engineering)
- **Original article:** <https://about.gitlab.com/blog/modernize-java-with-cursor-and-gitlab/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/5bb0f9cb-80ae-4016-8f10-061512fdecb4

## The Complexity of Java Modernization

Transitioning from Java 8 to Java 21 may seem like a single task, but it impacts many areas including build, runtime, dependencies, APIs, and tests. AI and CI/CD tools play a critical role in this process.

## Focused Solutions with Cursor

Cursor, an AI-based coding tool, is effective at solving specific test failures or bounded issues. It reviews code, explains the problem, and runs tests.

## Safe Transition with GitLab

GitLab manages AI workflows with the Duo Agent Platform and certifies the work of coding agents. Processes like CI/CD, security scanning, and code review ensure safety.

## Java HTTP Metrics Collector

The Java HTTP metrics collector from the Tanuki IoT Platform checks HTTP endpoints and records metrics. This provides a visible application boundary for modernization.

## Fixing Errors with Cursor

Cursor analyzes a failed end-to-end test, identifies the root cause, and proposes a fix. When tests pass, it creates a branch and merge request.

## Code Review with GitLab

GitLab Duo Code Review examines changes using the project's Java-specific review instructions. This ensures every merge request meets the same standards.

## CI/CD and Security Scanning

A merge request automatically triggers CI/CD builds and tests. Security scanning and code review ensure the safety of changes.

## Problem Solving with Developer Flow

When code review identifies a concrete issue, it is resolved through the Developer Flow. This ensures that even quickly produced merge requests meet quality standards.

## Establishing a Behavioral Baseline

The fix made with Cursor addresses a real bug without mixing it with runtime migration. This establishes a behavioral baseline and facilitates the modernization process.

## HTTP Connection Management with Java 21

HTTP connection management is modernized with Java 21. This improves performance and allows leveraging new features.

## Adding Project Context

Adding project context is crucial in the modernization process. It allows Cursor to move quickly while maintaining safety.

## The Importance of Modernization

Java modernization improves code quality and allows leveraging new technologies. With AI and CI/CD tools, this process becomes safer and more effective.

## Sources covering this story

- https://about.gitlab.com/blog/modernize-java-with-cursor-and-gitlab/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._