AI has taken over most code writing tasks, leaving developers with new roles like design and management. Senior engineers at Spotify haven’t written a single line of code since December, while Anthropic uses AI to write 70-90% of its code. Google’s leadership says AI agents are now writing half of all code.
Developers are moving away from programming towards design and decision-making. They’re using judgment over JavaScript, rewriting what it means to be a software developer professional. This transition comes with pressures that must be handled carefully.
Google is helping teams keep up by training employees and sharing tips on new AI tools. The company appoints hundreds of employees embedded within engineering teams to learn new tools and capabilities. They hold workshops and office hours where coworkers can share tips and tricks.
While AI improves coding accuracy, it also creates burnout due to the constant switching between tasks. Developers may feel more productive but less in control of their time. Google’s senior director emphasizes the need for human-side change management as the industry continues to evolve.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-coding-changing-software-developer-role-2026-3