Maven check for updated dependencies in repository

Question

Is there a Maven plugin that allows you to check if there are newer versions of dependencies available in the repository?

Say, you are using dependency X with versio

Answer 1

You can use the Versions Maven Plugin[1] to generate reports in your Maven site to get a list of possible updates. With regard to Spring's irregularity, it appears to use the Mercury versioning system[2]. When configuring the Versions plugin, you can add a special rule for Spring stuff:

1. http://mojo.codehaus.org/versions-maven-plugin/
2. http://docs.codehaus.org/display/MAVEN/Mercury+Version+Ranges