Future Software Trends That Will Define Development
Software, as always, is in a feverish rush forward, and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. Now that big data, quantum computing, VR and other things are becoming more of the norm, developers are under a lot of pressure to make sure their work is up-to-date. If you’re a solo developer or running a software business, here are some of the trends that are starting to define modern programming…
Client-Server Hybrid Systems Are Growing
As we get further and further into 2017, we’re going to see more and more software systems which blur the line between local and cloud computing in a range of different proportions. When you look at the traditional methods of web programming, a given browser connects to a backend server, which in turn will take care of all the processing. In app programming, the programs operate locally, and get everything they need from the device itself. However, we’re now seeing an increasing number of hybrids hitting the market. For example, Xbox One games can use a massive amount of processing power from the console, and still incorporate the big multiplayer component of online gaming. As an increasing amount of software is built in this way, the lines between local and cloud computing will blur even more, to the point where it can be set up on any point in the spectrum.
VR is Becoming Mainstream
After years of development, virtual reality is finally on the brink of going mainstream. As I write, developers all over the world are working on projects which will make VR devices increase in their capability, and decrease in size. If you thought interactive graphics and live video SDK was tough to integrate with some online asset, you haven’t seen anything yet! When Virtual Reality goes totally mainstream, one critical thing to pay attention to is that transitional period where the majority of consumers adopt the new tech while still relying on the apps and services that are based on the current “flat” user interface. The most successful products hitting the market will be from developers who are able to create a UI that can be experienced in either 2D or 3D. In order for current VR to thrive, the majority of 3D apps will need to map back to their 2D base at some point.
Devices Are Shrinking (Again)
As transistors begin to be measured in atoms and nanometres, people are getting ready to wave goodbye to Moore’s law. However, tech giants are starting to hire in specialists in quantum computing who will work on cutting-edge engineering projects, which may soon result in actual quantum computers. One of these would be able to carry out all its calculations significantly faster than a standard transistor-based computer, which will in turn open up the way for smaller, more powerful devices. As devices carry on shrinking, we’re expected to see Apple and Microsoft starting to work on a single, most likely wearable, super-device that will make phones, tablets and laptops obsolete in the space of a decade or two!