C++ Continues to Climb the Ranks in Programming Language Popularity
C++ has solidified its status as a prominent player in the Tiobe programming language popularity index, showcasing remarkable growth throughout 2023. This month, the language recorded a substantial increase of 5.93% compared to the same period last year, surpassing the performance of other programming languages. According to Tiobe, this consistent rise underscores C++’s enduring relevance and adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of software development.
The accolades for C++ began with its designation as the Tiobe Programming Language of the Year for 2022, a recognition given to the language demonstrating the most significant growth in the index. Renowned for its ability to blend the low-level capabilities of C with the features required for large software systems, C++ has become the go-to choice for developers in various domains. Bjarne Stroustrup, the language’s creator, highlighted its diverse applications, which span across industries such as aerospace, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and biomedicine, further establishing its utility in modern technology.
The Tiobe index evaluates programming language popularity using a unique formula that tracks searches on major search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo. This method considers factors such as the number of courses offered, the availability of skilled engineers, and the presence of third-party vendors dedicated to each language. This comprehensive approach not only reflects current trends but also indicates the growing demand for proficiency in C++ among developers.
In addition to C++, the index has noted the rise of other emerging languages, including Rust and Scratch. Rust, which emphasizes safety and high performance, secured the 20th position with a year-over-year growth of 0.16%. Meanwhile, Scratch, designed for teaching programming concepts to beginners in educational settings, ranked 18th, growing by 0.13%. Among the established languages, C continues to hold a strong second place with a 1.3% increase, while Java ranks fourth with a growth of 1.07% in February. Visual Basic also remains notable, sitting sixth with a growth rate of 1.09%. These trends highlight the dynamic nature of the programming landscape, where established languages coexist with newcomers, each carving out their niche in a competitive environment.