The booklet on modern languages such as TypeScript, Kotlin, Rust and Go, which promise more efficient and low-maintenance code, is now available in the voonze shop.
Software development is constantly changing: From generation to generation, new programming languages are appearing that take different paths than before – but also build on the tried and tested. From the first code in assembler to high-level languages such as FORTRAN and COBOL to today’s dominant languages such as C/C++, Java and JavaScript, an almost unmanageable variety has emerged. Supposedly no wishes remain unfulfilled with this selection. But new patterns bring fresh concepts for other programming languages that face the growing challenges with new approaches.
Programming Languages – Next Generation
In the iX Developer special issue “Programming Languages - Next Generation”, developers will find a curated selection of articles that focus on the four next-generation languages TypeScript, Kotlin, Rust and Go. These four compete against the established competition with specialized skills: TypeScript brings type safety to JavaScript, Kotlin mixes functional concepts with object-oriented programming on the JVM (Java Virtual Machine). Compared to C, Rust’s ownership concept brings memory security without the overhead of a garbage collector, and Go aims at concurrent programming with a view to cloud computing and distributed applications in the cluster.
TypeScript, Go & Co.: a question of type
The chapter on TypeScript is dedicated to the powerful type system of the JavaScript superset. Four articles cover the benefits and aspects of the type system, which contributes to low-maintenance code and helps developers avoid programming errors, among other things. The interfaces in Go are also purely a type thing, because they give Go the flexibility of dynamically typed languages. In his contribution to the interfaces, Andreas Schröpfer explains how programming professionals use Go interfaces, what they should bear in mind and how an interface becomes a specific type again.
The chapter on Kotlin starts with a basic introduction. The Java alternative scores with a clear structure and good readability. Kotlin also combines functional concepts with object-oriented programming on the Java Virtual Machine, but can also be used beyond the JVM. In his article, Nils Kasseckert shows how Kotlin Multiplatform Mobile can be used to develop native applications for different platforms, while retaining the business logic for the cross-platform apps.
Rust: indispensable in everyday developer work
With its ownership model, the programming language Rust proves that memory management can be designed efficiently and securely without a garbage collector or manual intervention. The approach requires new structures and a rethink on the part of developers, but in return it solves a large number of problems and makes memory and runtime efficient programming possible, as Stefan Baumgartner shows in his contribution. Another characteristic feature of the language are the Rust macros, which, according to Alvin Ramskogler and Rainer Stropek, can quickly prove to be an indispensable tool in everyday developer work. They are therefore less error-prone and have the potential to simplify code and increase development speed – for example by dispensing with manual duplication of code.
Ready for the quantum leap
TypeScript, Kotlin, Rust and Go are undoubtedly among the next-generation programming languages that are currently popular. The iX Developer special closes with an outlook on promising things in established languages. The programming of quantum computers, for example, promises to be forward-looking. In his introduction to Q#, Kay Glahn explains how programs for quantum computers can be created with Microsoft’s quantum language and the supplementary Quantum Development Kit. Even established programming languages can always assert themselves against the emerging competition with new functions and concepts, as further articles show. The issue offers insights into the C++20 concepts and illuminates Java 17, whose release with clear syntax and long-term support is considered mature.
Promotional package print and PDF, also with Rust book
The PDF version of the special issue is now available in the voonze shop at a price of EUR 12.99. The printed edition can be ordered from the voonze shop for EUR 14.90 – postage free until September 15th. The print booklet and PDF can also be ordered together for EUR 19.90 (booklet and digital access), around 30 percent cheaper than purchasing them individually.
If you are interested in the Rust programming language, watch out: The booklet version and PDF are also available at a special price of 47.80 euros in a package with the book “Rust – Basics and Advanced Techniques” by Amann, Baumann, Koch (this corresponds to a discount of around 20 Percent). From September 8, 2022, the print issue will also be available in well-stocked newsagents.
