Explore techniques for optimizing Apache Spark application processing time in this 25-minute Databricks session. Learn how to improve a Spark structured streaming application's micro-batch time from ~55 to ~30 seconds through real-world use cases. Discover optimization strategies for applications processing ~700 MB/s of compressed data with strict KPIs, utilizing technologies like Spark 3.1, Kafka, Azure Blob Storage, AKS, and Java 11. Gain insights into Spark configuration changes, code optimizations, and implementing custom data sources. Delve into topics such as input architecture, Spark Data Source implementation, partitioning strategies, dynamic task allocation, optimal partition numbers, and Garbage Collection analysis, including the Garbage First (G1) GC.