Not really … Java is for big applications, desktop applications and mobile phones.
PHP is for light websites.

They really have different markets.

Java is not open-source, as in OSI aprooved.
The first and most important point on the OSI rules for open-source licenses is … free distribution.
Java’s license does not curently comply.

Also, you can only modify the source code for experimental purposes.
You cannot distribute modifications to the JRE, unless you pass the TCK … which costs money (first of all).

Java’s current license is a far from being open-source (as in OSI aprooved), and as a result … MONO, the .NET clone is more widespread among various Linux distros that Java … now isn’t that ironic ?

I hope they don’t take too long “figuring out”, and just do that already.

Well, it’s not that easy decision anyway as it deeply involves sun’s future business model.

Java is already effectively open source

I tend to agree on this.

The flip side is compatibility really matters. I don’t think anybody wants to see a diverging Java platform. One of the great values of Java has been that we’ve been able to keep it together—something you can all rely on in terms of its consistency and value and evolution

How would you reply to this “fear”?
No arguing, just interested in the topic.