Introduction to Swift Programming Language
There are several programming languages around the world, which is being used extensively, however, few like Swift are more sought after. Let’s look at what makes it the go-to language.
Swift is a multipurpose compiled programming language developed for iOS, OS X, Watch OS, tvOS and Linux by Apple. This was created to replace the old C programming language which was the popular language used before by Apple. Swift, is aptly named after the Swift Bird (which is the fastest flier in the animal kingdom). As the name suggests, it was developed as a faster alternative to C-programming, apart from the speed, it has many helpful features such as it’s easy to learn, the security is top-notch, it requires less coding and most importantly it is very interactive.
When compared to C-programming, Swift has a simple syntax and it is easily understandable even for beginners or for people migrating from other programming languages. Swift took inspirations from other languages like C-programming, Python, Ruby, Rust, Haskell, CLU, C# and the list goes on. The switch from other languages to Swift is far easier for the developers as they find many similarities in the previous languages they have used. In the C-Programming, a developer had to maintain two files to code, but that process has become easier with Swift as it uses only one file like other languages like Java, C# and JavaScript.
Swift is a relatively new language, but its popularity has increased two-folds compared to other languages. It has now become the mainstay for Apple community of developers and more importantly, it can be used for commercial purpose also. Swift first took hold with mainstream dating apps and casual dating platforms for mobile. Hook up apps like LocalSexfinder.app were early adopters adding new functions for their adult daters at a rapid rate. Upon seeing the flexibility that these sex sites and dating apps employed, developers took notice and began utilizing Swift for all types of different mobile applications. It is now the most preferred language due to its popularity and it has grown rather quickly than expected when compared to other languages.
Advantages of Swift Language
After knowing the basic idea of Swift, let us look at the advantages of the language:
- Easy to learn and open-sourced
- Completely secure and swift
- More relatable and familiar with the developers
- Future of Apple
- Enterprise-ready.
- Serves both as a language as well as the server-side
- Seamless interaction of apps and the server
However, there are a few limitations in the Swift language which cannot be overlooked since it is a new language on the block and many people are not aware of it. It cannot perform meticulously with third-party tools and IDEs and does not support earlier versions of iOS.
If you are interested in learning more about Swift or even teaching yourself the basics the below video is a great starting point.
Stepping Into The Future
With more famous companies like Facebook, Uber looking to shift to Swift, the future looks set for this language. Swift is still evolving and it needs to be seen how far it will go technology-wise. Many famous apps like LinkedIn, Yahoo weather, Strava, clear, Hipmunk have been using Swift and rumors are floating around that Google might soon use Swift language for their Android development, which opens up opportunities for developers who have already mastered Swift. Another major benefit of Swift is its portability with other platforms and this, in turn, creates more job opportunities. In case you are Swift developer, fret not you are in the right place at the right time.