Programming Languages – Latest Development & Round up

Technology has accelerated so much in the past decade that over 600 programming languages are out there for programmers to choose from. The popularity and demand for each language change every year, with newer editions possessing exciting features.

Computer coding and programming have just added to our convenience and are one of the most sought-after and rewarding skills today. Coding and programming skills are valued in several industries, including research, web design, IT, data analytics, and more.

With numerous programming languages out there, it may be challenging to choose which one is worth your time and investment. This article will go over some established programming languages which are mainstream in the software development sector, top-ranked by websites in terms of language programming, possess a diverse range of tools, and have a rising popularity rate.

Top 3 Popular Programming Languages

Python

Python ranks as the topmost preferred and popular programming language growing by 18.5% in the last five years and possesses a share of 30.44%. The language, which is supported by web and desktop applications, primarily focuses on ensuring a developer’s experience and is used for data science, web development, enterprise application, artificial intelligence, and more.

Python is rising at an accelerating pace in software development areas. With low barriers to programming, Python is a leading solution for programmers that consistently improves its performance and is ranked number one on the PYPL ranking site after gaining much attention in the preceding years. GitHub Octoverse predicts that Python still has a 50% chance of growth this year with its rugged design.

Python’s USP contains a unique language design, which is simple, effective, and powerful. Its top-notch integration with C/C++ allows a smooth offload CPU related tasks to C/C++. Not to mention the Python community is very involved and active.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Ideal language for visualizing data
• Simple syntax for a low learning curve
• Invincible flexibility

Cons

• Slow
• Threading limitations
• The simple syntax makes it complicated to switch between other languages

JavaScript/NodeJS

JavaScript is one of the oldest programming languages that has gone through a serious evolution in the past decade. Today reputable firms such as PayPal, Uber, and Netflix all rely on JavaScript to establish secure web pages.

JavaScript is mainly used for browser game development, backend development, web development, serverless computing, and more. Today, it has the most dynamic language design and ranks 3rd, just below Java on PYPL GitHub, with a share of 8.44%. Not to mention JavaScript has topped the charts on GitHub repository contributions for the past five years.

From mobile devices, apps, microcontrollers, servers, and browsers, JavaScript is a standard regulator for all and is an unquestionable master at programming. To entail I/O heavy tasks, JavaScript also provides programmers with event-driven programming.

Pros

• Stable speed regardless of calls to backend servers
• Easily inserted into web pages and is compatible with several applications like PHP and Pearl
• Extended functionality of web pages by producing JavaScript snippets for outsourced or third-party add-ons.

Cons

• Exposed to opportunities of malware through bugs on the site
• Lack of multiple inheritance support
• Lacks adequate debugging support as C/C++

Java

Java is a multi-paradigm programming language with an efficient, object-oriented design that supports programming for multi-threading. The programming language is used for web development, enterprise and android app development, and big data. Its runtime is outstanding, making it one of the most preferred virtual machines. Java currently possesses a share of 16.76% and is relied upon by approx. 90% fortune 500 firms for backend development and desktop apps.

Java offers high developer productivity, a neutral learning curve and is currently being made compatible for the cloud via the GraalVM initiative, which will add to the language’s functionality. Since most business applications require backward compatibility, Java fulfills this demand conveniently.

However, according to Google Trends, Java seems to be losing traction over the past five years, mainly due to competitors’ rise in the market.

Pros

• Objected oriented allows programmers to establish reusable codes and standard programs and less complicated than C++
• Does not require any software installment and is platform-independent
• Distributed computing that creates network applications adding to data and app functionality.

Cons

• Speed limitations and can be memory consuming
• The performance of an application is affected when the garbage collector runs, leading to disruptions in memory management
• The visualization of Java written GUI applications appears to be different from typical applications

Latest Programming Language Developments

Java domination– Considering reputable sites such as Amazon and native android apps are all being written in Java, Java’s simplicity ensures it will continue to dominate the programming landscape.

PHP continues to prevail– PHP powers a significant number of websites today. Its diversity and scalable yet robust platform make it one of the top trends for the coming years. Not to mention CMS and PHP go exceptionally well together, with WordPress being a noteworthy example. But in most cases, the PHP memory limit is 256M, which is usually more than enough for most applications.

Big Data trend– The stupendous data that analysts leverage to receive practical customer insights are collectively referred to as Big Data. Businesses will resort to Big Data to drive and acquire useful insights and predict future development for programming trends.

Video Source: Intellipaat YouTube