Speaking on Joe Rogan’s podcast, Zuckerberg suggested AI could soon take over many coding roles, signaling a shift in how software development is approached in the tech industry.
Zuckerberg predicts that by 2025, Meta and other tech companies could rely on AI to handle most coding tasks. This trend could reduce the need for mid-level engineers, who currently earn salaries in the mid-six figures at Meta.
“We will get to a point where all the code in our apps and the AI it generates will also be written by AI engineers instead of people engineers,” Zuckerberg explained.
Industry-Wide Trends
Meta isn’t alone in leveraging AI for software development:
- Google: CEO Sundar Pichai revealed that over 25% of Google’s new code is now AI-generated, with human engineers focusing on final reviews.
- IBM: CEO Arvind Krishna stated in 2023 that AI could replace up to 30% of the company’s back-office roles.
These developments point to a broader industry shift where AI takes over repetitive coding tasks, potentially reducing the number of junior and entry-level coding positions.
Risks and Opportunities for Developers
While AI adoption may eliminate some roles, it could also reshape the industry:
- Fewer Routine Jobs: Junior and mid-level developers may see fewer opportunities for routine coding tasks.
- Focus on High-Level Skills: Engineers will likely need to prioritize strategic and creative problem-solving that complements AI’s capabilities.
Human expertise remains essential for complex issues beyond AI’s scope, ensuring that skilled engineers will continue to play a vital role in the long term.
Klarna’s Example: AI Dominance in Action
Klarna, a fintech leader, has embraced AI-driven automation, reducing its workforce by 20% without hiring replacements. CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski stated that AI now handles nearly all tasks previously performed by humans, marking another step toward an AI-dominated workforce.
The company’s headcount dropped from 4,500 to 3,500 due to natural attrition, reflecting a broader trend in tech companies adopting AI to streamline operations.
Zuckerberg’s vision of an AI-driven future underscores the need for developers to adapt. As AI takes over routine coding, engineers must focus on high-level skills that add value beyond automation. While the role of traditional coders may diminish, opportunities will emerge in AI oversight, strategic development, and solving complex challenges.