As programming languages are integral components of software development, advances in software engineering must foresee and impact programming language and vice-versa.
Programming languages have changed significantly, from the introduction of basic languages like Fortran and COBOL to languages like Python and JavaScript.
The next ten years will likely witness more of the changes as new technologies emerge and our needs for software change. So, what innovations, languages, and paradigms can we anticipate shaping the next ten years of software development? We will explore more in this article, so follow along for all the information you need.
Key Trends Influencing Programming’s Future
The software technology landscape is changing rapidly, and keeping up with the latest trends is very important.
In the years ahead, several technical developments will influence many of the most widely used programming languages:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AI and ML have been used to develop new languages, and the increasing dependence on these tools shows that languages that enable them will continue to be very important.
- Cybersecurity: As cyber threats increase, more people will choose languages that prioritise security and memory protection.
- Cloud Computing and Edge Computing: As cloud technology advances, programming languages for cloud-based applications will continue to flourish.
- Low-Code/No-Code Development: These platforms allow people to create software without writing code. Platforms that support this make programming more accessible to non-developers and lead to the explicit development of new programming languages designed for low-code or no-code development.
- Quantum Computing: Specialised languages will be developed to handle quantum computing as it becomes more practical.
Now, knowing of these key influencers, what programming languages do you think are likely contenders for the coming years? As for me, the following programming languages are going to be the leading contenders for the next decades.
- Python: The AI and Data Science Powerhouse.
Python – a general programming language – is being used to develop AI and MI systems. The readability and simplicity of features, as well as its extensive libraries, like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Pandas – make it a popular choice for programmers across all fields.
Python continues to be a powerhouse in AI, MI, and data science. However, its limitations in system-level programming may prevent widespread dominance.
- JavaScript: The King of Web Development
Building dynamic and interactive web apps still requires JavaScript. Its ecosystem’s growth and adaptability guarantee its continuing significance.
The backend tools like Node.js make it a useful tool for full-stack development, while the frontend frameworks like React and Vue.js give users innovative interfaces.
- Rust: The Future of System-Level Programming?
Rust is well-liked by system-level programmers and dependability seekers because of its emphasis on speed and safety. Big companies – such as Microsoft and Mozilla – use Rust for system development and cybersecurity. Its great advantages in security-critical applications outweigh the difficult learning curve. - Go: The Champion of Cloud Computing
Golang – also called Go – has been growing in popularity because of its easy usage and the ability to multitask. In recent years, Go has gained recognition for cloud-based applications due to its effectiveness and ease of use. Go’s significance is expected to rise as cloud computing continues to expand.
- Swift and Kotlin: The Future of Mobile Development
Kotlin and Swift are modern programming languages created specifically for the mobile-first user economy, easing app development across devices. Kotlin is widely adopted for mobile development, while iOS prefers Swift. Both have their strength.
Leading Contenders of New and Specialised Languages
In specialised sectors, several developing languages could also become more widely used in the next few years:
- Julia: Originally intended for scientific computing, Julia has the potential to advance into data science and numerical computing.
- TypeScript: Popularly used in web development to enhance the quality of code. JavaScript’s statically typed superset is called TypeScript.
- Dart: Developed by Google, Dart gained popularity because of Flutter’s accomplishments in online and mobile programming.
- R: Being commonly used in academia and research, R is extensively useful in statistical computing and data visualisation.
In conclusion, programming is a dynamic field, and emerging technologies are shaping the languages that will be most widely used in the next decade.
Python and JavaScript will remain dominant because of their broad use and adaptability. Rust will become the industry leader in performance-critical applications, while Kotlin and Go will firmly establish themselves in cloud-native and mobile programming.
According to research, the software engineering field will grow by a massive 25% between 2021 and 2025.
However, the supply of skilled developers is not keeping up with the demand, and this talent shortage is expected to continue.
Developers must recognise and make use of these languages’ unique benefits if they want to stay up to date in the ever-evolving field of programming.
*Kudzai Gopfa is a seasoned software engineer passionate about leveraging technology to create impactful solutions. With extensive experience in software development, he has contributed to innovative projects and mentored aspiring tech professionals. Dedicated to pushing technological boundaries, Kudazi actively shares insights and champions excellence in the industry.
