Kotlin is a statically typed programming language that runs on the JVM, Android, and other platforms. It was developed by JetBrains and offers simple yet powerful syntax and seamless interoperability with existing Java-Code. Kotlin is also increasingly being used as an alternative to Java Used in Android development and is also gaining importance in other areas such as the backend.
Areas of application of Kotlin
Kotlin is versatile and can be used across platforms:
- Android: Develop native Android apps with Kotlin.
- Multi-platform mobile: Develop cross-platform apps with Kotlin Multi Platform (KMM).
- Server-side: Develop scalable server-side backend applications with Kotlin.
Notable features of Kotlin
Benefits
Kotlin is a very modern programming language that supports many modern features and concepts, such as lambda expressions, function enhancements, zero-safety, and much more.
Kotlin is easy to learn, especially for developers who already have experience with Java. Kotlin's syntax is simple and clear, making it easy to write code.
Kotlin is fully interoperable with Java, which means that Kotlin code can easily be used in a Java environment and vice versa. As a result, any Java library can also be used, which automatically provides Kotlin with a very extensive ecosystem.
Kotlin reduces the amount of boilerplate code needed to write an application. This means developers have to spend less time dealing with code that only serves to maintain the structure of the application.
Kotlin can be used to develop applications for various platforms including Android, iOS, web, and desktop. This allows developers to write an application just once and run it on different platforms.
Through open source, the entire source code is public and can be viewed, modified and used free of charge.
Drawbacks
Since Kotlin is a newer programming language, there is still no comparable community as with older programming languages.
Kotlin saves a significant number of lines of code thanks to numerous features. However, developers must first become familiar with the new notation before they can use it efficiently and correctly. Otherwise, the readability of the code may suffer.
Another downside of Kotlin is its reliance on Jetbrains as the main developer of the language and developer tools, which could pose a potential risk should Jetbrains reduce or change its support in the future.
Our Conclusion
Overall, Kotlin offers a modern, intuitive and effective way to develop applications, whether for Android, cross-platform apps, or server-side applications.
We currently use Kotlin primarily in the backend and have had almost exclusively positive experiences so far. However, it remains to be seen whether Kotlin will also convince us with cross-platform apps.
For more information about Kotlin, visit the webpage from the manufacturer.