Kotlin is a relatively new programming language developed by JetBrains for modern multiplatform applications. Nowadays, Kotlin is widely used for Android development instead of Java. It is because Kotlin is safe, concise, and fun to read and write.
To get started with Kotlin programming, visit our Kotlin Tutorials.
Features of Kotlin Programming
Open Source
Kotlin is distributed under Apache License, Version 2.0. The Kompiler (Kotlin compiler), IntelliJ IDEA plugin, enhancements to basic Java libraries and build tools all are open source.
Interoperable with Java and Android
It is 100% interoperable with Java and Android. This means all your current Java/Android code works seamlessly with Kotlin. For more information, visit Mixing Java and Kotlin in One Project.
Concise and Expressive
Rough estimation indicates that using Kotlin allows you to cut off the lines of code by approximately 40% (compared to Java).
Expressive means, it's easy to write code that both humans and compilers can understand easily.
Easy to Learn
Learning Kotlin is easy if you know other programming languages like Java, Scala, Groovy, C#, Javascript and Gosu.
Tool-Friendly
Kotlin is developed by JetBrains, a company renowned for creating development tools for professionals. No wonder, it is tool-friendly.
Safe
Kotlin is a statically types language. Hence, the type checking occurs at compile-time as opposed to run-time and trivial bugs are caught at an early stage.
Present and Future of Kotlin
Present
- Many companies like Netflix, Uber, Trello, Pinterest, Corda, etc are using Kotlin (along with other programming languages) to create applications.
- Google's Android team announced Kotlin as an official language for Android app development.
- You can replace Java code with Kotlin seamlessly. It is 100% interoperable with Java and Android.
Future
Possible future projects in Kotlin are:
- Cross-platform game development
- Cross-platform mobile application development
- Server-side and microservices
- Data analysis and machine learning
- Embedded system: Arduino/Raspberry Pi to professional controllers directly
How you can learn to code in Kotlin?
Learn Kotlin from Programiz
Programiz offers a complete series of easy to follow Kotlin tutorials along with suitable examples. These tutorials are targeted at absolute beginners with no prior knowledge of the Kotlin programming language.
The Kotlin Website (Official Site)
Kotlin Reference and Kotlin Tutorial from the official site is one of the most reliable sources to learn Kotlin. When in doubt, always follow the official resources.
Other useful Resources
Here are a few resources to expand your Kotlin knowledge and seek help when you stuck.
Final Words
Kotlin has already gained a reputation for being concise, expressive and safe. And, with Google's announcement (an official language for Android development), it's safe to say that Kotlin is here for the big run.
If you are a Java/Android developer, we recommend you to learn Kotlin when possible. It not only makes your CV better but also helps to increase productivity.