What is the Factory Method Pattern in Java?

Can you explain the Factory Method Pattern in Java?

Sure! The Factory Method Pattern is a creational design pattern that provides an interface for creating objects.

How does it differ from the Simple Factory Pattern?

The Simple Factory Pattern is not a formal design pattern and uses a single method to create objects, while the Factory Method Pattern defines an interface for creating objects, allowing subclasses to alter the type of objects that will be created.

Can you give me a code example?

Absolutely! Here's a simple example:

// Product interface
interface Product {
    void use();
}

// Concrete Product
class ConcreteProductA implements Product {
    public void use() { System.out.println("Using Product A"); }
}

// Creator
abstract class Creator {
    public abstract Product factoryMethod();
}

// Concrete Creator
class ConcreteCreatorA extends Creator {
    public Product factoryMethod() { return new ConcreteProductA(); }
}

// Usage
Creator creator = new ConcreteCreatorA();
Product product = creator.factoryMethod();
product.use();

What are the benefits of using this pattern?

The benefits include improved code maintainability, flexibility in adding new products, and adherence to the Open/Closed Principle.