STX Next, a European software development company specialising in the Python programming language, released its findings in a 2023 Python Tech Radar Report. Insights from the report, AI and ML are the third-most popular area for training among developers, following web development and software development. 

This is on the backdrop of a mere 6% seeing AI and ML as being integrated into Python in the future. The report still calls for the end of further support for software developers in their current AI and ML projects since “AI and ML are here to stay,” according to Ronald Binkofski, CEO at STX Next.

“Future updates to Python – and other popular programming languages – should focus on implementing improved AI and ML tools as a matter of course. Updates to other areas such as performance and security are always crucial, but making it easier to carry out AI-related projects has to be a priority from now on as well,” he said. 

Even if 6% of developers predict AI and ML functions in future Python versions, 17% of respondents see it as “the next big thing”, ranking higher than any other area in the survey. Even among the developers undecided on big trends, 36% of them expressed curiosity to explore the subject. 

“There is a strong appetite among software developers for building and growing their skills in this area, and they recognise its potential in helping them complete more innovative and ambitious projects,” said Binkofski.

“However, there is still some ground to make up to ensure that developers have the tools at their disposal to elevate their skills to a new level.”

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According to the report, 25% of developers already aim to enhance their AI and ML skills. However, Binkofski points out that developers should be encouraged to take up the subject by their organisations. 

“If organisations emphasise holistic training for their employees in this area – covering everything from wider AI-related concepts, all the way through to the intricacies of coding for AI – they will set themselves up for a successful future,” he said.  

To read and download the report, click here.