Apache Kafka has evolved to support real-time data processing through Kafka Connect, a feature introduced in version 0.9, which simplifies the building and management of stream data pipelines. This development allows businesses to transition from traditional batch data processing to real-time data integration, positioning Kafka as a central hub for data flow across diverse systems. Kafka Connect abstracts common challenges in stream data integration, such as schema management, fault tolerance, and offset management, enabling scalable and reliable data pipelines. By supporting parallel processing through partitioned streams, Kafka Connect facilitates large-scale data integration and enhances interoperability between different systems. The framework is deployment-agnostic, allowing for flexibility in resource management and operational tools, and encourages open-source contributions to expand its ecosystem of connectors. As Kafka continues to evolve, with new features in subsequent releases like Apache Kafka 3.8.0, it remains a critical element in modern data architecture, providing a unified approach to managing both stream and batch data sources.