Batch applications are programs that run without human intervention to process large amounts of data. They are characterized by non-interactive processing, large input sizes, and long transaction times. Common examples of batch processing include payroll, billing, reporting, and analytics jobs. A batch application is made up of jobs that contain steps. Each step uses a reader to input data, a processor to apply logic, and a writer to output results. Batch applications are well-suited for data-intensive tasks like ETL and can take advantage of off-peak hours. Frameworks like Java Batch and Spring Batch provide models and APIs for developing batch jobs in Java/JEE environments.