There are open source and non-Oracle Java virtual machines you can buy support from if Oracle isn't your cup of tea.

It's not really a legal liability either. Lawyers for companies who use Java go over those agreements with a fine tooth comb and approve them before they're signed. There are no surprises (if your attorneys aren't frauds.)

Google's was not using Oracle's virtual machine, and their attorneys were not frauds, but they've been tied up in litigation for most of a decade and are facing potentially ten billion dollars in penalties.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oracle_America,_Inc._v._Google....

Java is not a responsible or ethical choice for anybody to use for any purpose.

Google's case is less one of "using" Java, and more one of reimplementing it. It's an entirely different legal beast.

They just screwed Sun, created Android J++ with applause from wannabe be Google employees, and turned down the opportunity to buy Sun and own Java.

They deserve what they get.

I am pretty sure IBM has a couple of patents regarding VM implementations.