[KAFKA-17145] Reinstate Utils.join() method in org.apache.kafka.common.utils

• Type: Bug
• Status: Resolved
• Priority: Major
• Resolution: Won't Fix
• Affects Version/s: 3.8.0
• Component/s: connect
• Assignee: Vikas Balani
• Reporter: Vikas Balani
• Created: 16/Jul/24 12:32
• Updated: 16/Jul/24 19:03
• Resolved: 16/Jul/24 15:44

Description

Description:

The Utils.join() function has been removed from the org.apache.kafka.common.utils package. This utility function is widely used by many connector plugins, which are now failing due to the absence of this method.

Example of affected code:

The S3 Sink Connector uses this method here: link

Impact:

1. Connector plugins that depend on this method are failing.
2. This change breaks backward compatibility for plugins and custom code relying on Utils.join().

Proposed Solution:

1. Partially revert https://github.com/apache/kafka/pull/15823
2. Restore the Utils.join() method in org.apache.kafka.common.utils.
3. Maintain the usage of JDK API within Apache Kafka codebase instead of Utils.join().
4. Add a deprecation warning to Utils.join() to indicate future removal.