The rise of AI in programming has sparked concerns about the future of coders, but experts argue that it's an evolution, not an extinction. AI is augmenting the work of software developers, making them more efficient and freeing them up to focus on higher-level tasks.
AI coding assistants, like the one used by 29-year-old computer scientist John Giorgi, can suggest code, recommend changes, fetch data, identify bugs, and even run basic tests. While AI makes some mistakes, it saves developers like Giorgi up to an hour of work many days.
The demand for software and skilled developers is unlikely to decrease, despite AI advancements. In fact, better tools have automated some coding tasks for decades, but the need for software and developers has only increased. AI will likely accelerate this trend, leveling up the art and craft of software design.
Industry experts, like Arnal Dayaratna, an analyst at IDC, agree that AI will change the skills required of software developers, but it won't eliminate the need for them. The future of coding will likely involve more collaboration between humans and AI, with AI handling repetitive and mundane tasks, and humans focusing on creativity, problem-solving, and high-level decision-making.
As AI continues to evolve and improve, it's likely that the role of software developers will shift, but it won't become obsolete. Instead, developers will work alongside AI, using their skills and expertise to create innovative software solutions that transform industries and improve lives.
