The Future of Software Development: How to Prepare for a Mobile-First World
The world of software development is evolving rapidly. With 60-70% of global internet users relying on mobile devices, the way software is built and delivered is changing. Whether you're just starting out as a programmer or developer or looking to adapt to the quickly changing landscape of computer technology, staying ahead means embracing a mobile-first, web-first, and cloud-first approach. Why Mobile and Web Technologies Matter In the past, software was primarily built for desktops, but today, web and mobile technologies dominate. Instead of costly native app development, businesses are shifting toward more accessible solutions: Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): These apps run in a browser but offer offline functionality, push notifications, and mobile app-like performance—without requiring app store downloads. WebAssembly (WASM): Allows high-performance applications (games, AI tools, and more) to run in the browser at near-native speeds. For developers, learning these technologies is essential to building scalable, cost-effective, and widely accessible applications. Key Skills for Future Developers To stay competitive in this evolving landscape, focus on: Web Development (JavaScript, TypeScript, WASM): The web is the universal platform. Mastering JavaScript frameworks (React, Vue, Svelte) and exploring WASM (Rust, C++) is a strong career move. Mobile & Hybrid Development (Kotlin, Flutter, React Native): Android leads globally, and hybrid frameworks allow development across multiple platforms. Cloud & Backend (Python, Node.js, Go, Rust): Cloud computing is transforming software development. Understanding cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure) is a major advantage. Foundational Languages (C++, Rust): While niche, these remain essential for performance-critical applications, such as cybersecurity, embedded systems, and game development. Explore cloud platforms: Understanding how modern applications run on AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure can set you apart. The future of software development belongs to web-first, mobile-first, and cloud-powered applications. Developers who adapt to these trends—regardless of location, age, or background—will be best positioned for success. The key is to stay curious, keep learning, and embrace new technologies that make software more accessible to users worldwide. Ben Santora - February 2025

The world of software development is evolving rapidly. With 60-70% of global internet users relying on mobile devices, the way software is built and delivered is changing. Whether you're just starting out as a programmer or developer or looking to adapt to the quickly changing landscape of computer technology, staying ahead means embracing a mobile-first, web-first, and cloud-first approach.
Why Mobile and Web Technologies Matter
In the past, software was primarily built for desktops, but today, web and mobile technologies dominate. Instead of costly native app development, businesses are shifting toward more accessible solutions:
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): These apps run in a browser but offer offline functionality, push notifications, and mobile app-like performance—without requiring app store downloads.
WebAssembly (WASM): Allows high-performance applications (games, AI tools, and more) to run in the browser at near-native speeds.
For developers, learning these technologies is essential to building scalable, cost-effective, and widely accessible applications.
Key Skills for Future Developers
To stay competitive in this evolving landscape, focus on:
Web Development (JavaScript, TypeScript, WASM): The web is the universal platform. Mastering JavaScript frameworks (React, Vue, Svelte) and exploring WASM (Rust, C++) is a strong career move.
Mobile & Hybrid Development (Kotlin, Flutter, React Native): Android leads globally, and hybrid frameworks allow development across multiple platforms.
Cloud & Backend (Python, Node.js, Go, Rust): Cloud computing is transforming software development. Understanding cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure) is a major advantage.
Foundational Languages (C++, Rust): While niche, these remain essential for performance-critical applications, such as cybersecurity, embedded systems, and game development.
Explore cloud platforms: Understanding how modern applications run on AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure can set you apart.
The future of software development belongs to web-first, mobile-first, and cloud-powered applications. Developers who adapt to these trends—regardless of location, age, or background—will be best positioned for success. The key is to stay curious, keep learning, and embrace new technologies that make software more accessible to users worldwide.
Ben Santora - February 2025