Future trends in software development 2026: What you need to know

The world of software development** is in constant change. New technologies, methods and paradigms change the way we design, develop and operate software. In this article we look at the most important trends that will shape the industry in 2026 and beyond.

Top Trends 2026

AI-based development

Artificial intelligence revolutionizes software development itself. AI assistants like GitHub copilot generate code, detect bugs and optimize performance. Developers become "AI Orchestrators", which control AI tools and refine their output.

• Automatic code generation and completion

• AI-based code reviews and quality testing

• Intelligent test generation

• Predictive Maintenance for Software

Low code and No code platforms

Democratisation of software development progresses. Low-code and no-code platforms also allow non-developers to create applications. For complex individual software, however, they remain a supplement, not a substitute.

• Citizen Developer in Departments

• Fast prototypes and MVPs

• Integration with professional development

• Automation of standard tasks

♪ Edge computing

The processing of data shifts closer to the source. Edge computing allows real-time analysis, reduces latency and relieves central systems. Particularly relevant for IoT, autonomous systems and industrial applications.

• Processing directly at the device or gateway

• Reduced dependence on cloud connections

• Real-time decisions without latency

• Improved data protection by local processing

Sustainable software development

Green IT becomes a competitive factor. Energy-efficient algorithms, optimized resource use and sustainable cloud infrastructure are gaining importance. Software carbon footprints can be measured and optimized.

• Energy-efficient algorithms and architectures

• Optimization of cloud resource consumption

• Measurement and reporting of CO2 emissions

• Sustainable development practices

Quantum-Ready Software

Although quantum computers have not yet arrived in the mainstream, predictive companies are already preparing. Quantum-safe encryption and hybrid algorithms are developed.

• Post-quantum cryptography

• Hybrid classic quantum-based algorithms

• Preparation for Quantum Supremacy

• New problem solution approaches

What does this mean for your company?

These trends are not distant visions of the future, but are already affecting decisions today. When planning new software projects, you should consider these developments to create future-proof solutions.

Other important developments

Platform Engineering

Internal developer platforms (IDPs) become standard. They provide developers self-service access to infrastructure and tools while they provide governance and