Gleam v1.0.0 Released: A Type-Safe, Opinionated Language for Erlang VM and JavaScript Runtimes
Gleam, a programming language crafted for type-safe and scalable system development, has officially reached its first stable release with version 1.0.0. This milestone marks a significant step for Gleam, which was initially designed to simplify the creation of robust applications while maintaining a focus on ease of use and safety.
Developed by Louis Pilfold, a London-based programmer, Gleam compiles to both Erlang and JavaScript, offering versatility in deployment. Announced on March 4, 2024, Gleam 1.0.0 is accessible through the Gleam Language Tour page, where developers can explore its features. The language’s public APIs are detailed in its GitHub repository, which includes documentation on the language design, compiler, build tools, and package management. Currently, there are 234 packages available, enriching the ecosystem and providing resources for developers.
Pilfold describes Gleam as a language with a minimal surface area, making it straightforward for newcomers to grasp within a single afternoon. The language incorporates static analysis and a type system influenced by well-regarded languages such as Elm, OCaml, and Rust. This design choice aims to make refactoring both low-risk and stress-free, with the compiler acting as an intelligent assistant that provides context and support during code modifications.
Gleam’s compatibility with the Erlang virtual machine and JavaScript runtimes allows for versatile application across different platforms, including browsers and mobile devices. This cross-platform capability enhances Gleam’s utility, making it a viable option for various types of software development projects.
Looking ahead, Pilfold and the Gleam team have outlined several goals for the future. These include refining the Gleam language server, expanding libraries to support production systems, and focusing initially on web-based applications and services. The team is committed to enhancing the developer experience while preserving Gleam’s simplicity and avoiding unnecessary complexity. Crucially, Pilfold emphasizes that Gleam is a community-driven project with significant backing from sponsors, notably including Fly.io, the provider of the Fly micro-VM platform.
Overall, the release of Gleam 1.0.0 represents a promising development in the landscape of programming languages, offering a blend of simplicity, safety, and versatility that aims to support developers in creating scalable and efficient systems.