FEATURE: CODING
AI, navigating a balance between excitement and unease.
Some industry analysts suggest we are entering a phase of‘ augmented development’ where human expertise remains essential but the day-to-day act of coding becomes less central.
Others predict the role of a software developer will evolve to resemble that of a systems designer, strategist or auditor. Instead of writing every line of code, they will focus on defining requirements, guiding AI and ensuring that the end product aligns with ethical and technical standards.
Key takeaways from the survey
• AI is already part of the daily workflow for most developers.
• AI skills are becoming essential in hiring decisions.
• Concerns about privacy, job loss and trust remain widespread.
• Developers see AI more as an enabler than a threat.
• The biggest challenge may be ensuring understanding, not just usage.
The key will be upskilling. Developers who understand both coding fundamentals and AI orchestration are likely to be in high demand while those who resist may struggle to adapt.
Final thoughts: A future written with AI
The survey findings are said to underline a profound shift. AI is no longer a novelty – it’ s a core part of modern development.
Developers are not asking whether to use AI but how best to use it. The challenge now is not just adoption but integration – making sure that AI enhances rather than undermines quality, security and human creativity.
The fact that more than half of senior developers already believe LLMs can code better than humans is a sign of just how quickly perceptions are changing. Yet the same survey shows deep concerns about privacy, job security and trust.
The study says the future of software development will likely be defined by those who learn to work with AI responsibly – balancing its speed and scale with the judgment, ethics and creativity that only humans can bring.
For now, the study says, AI may not replace developers – but it is undoubtedly reshaping what it means to be one.
Methodology
Clutch surveyed 800 software professionals in June 2025 using Pollfish. All respondents work in development or engineering roles at companies based in North America. The sample included mid- and senior-level contributors with experience in hiring, product development or team management. p
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