Minecraft: Java Edition is the original version of the game for computers, while Bedrock is a newer version available on nearly every device.

Which version you want will depend a little bit on your needs. If you're playing on a console or mobile device--an Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, or Android/iOS device, you'll be playing Bedrock.

Microsoft's official announcement post also references cross-play, which would seem to imply that Java and Bedrock Edition players will finally be able to play together.

Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions mostly offer the same gaming experience. However, they have some striking differences in various aspects.