Python surpasses JavaScript as the most-used language on GitHub; why does it matter?

The report, “State of the Octoverse 2024,” published by GitHub, reveals a major shift in the software development landscape: for the first time, Python has surpassed JavaScript as the most-used language on the platform.

Since 2019, Python had held the second position among the most-used languages on GitHub, surpassing Java and only trailing behind JavaScript. Now, Python has finally taken the lead, driven by a significant increase in generative AI projects and the popularity of Jupyter Notebook, an open-source tool widely used for development and data analysis, particularly in data science and machine learning.

According to the report, Python is seeing strong adoption among data science professionals, machine learning experts, and academics who appreciate its versatility and accessibility.

Another noteworthy data point shared by GitHub is a 98% increase in generative AI projects on the platform, along with a 59% rise in contributions to these projects. A new generation of developers and users, including many without traditional computer science backgrounds, are now participating in these projects.

Python: A Language that Attracts Diverse Talent

One reason for Python’s rise is its ability to attract professionals from diverse backgrounds.

The language is known for its simplicity and versatility, qualities that make it ideal for beginners, while also being powerful enough for complex applications in machine learning and data analysis.

Additionally, tools like GitHub Copilot and AI-powered platforms such as ChatGPT are making Python learning and software development easier, particularly for students and new users, including many in countries like Brazil and India.

Python vs. JavaScript

While Python has become the most-used language, JavaScript remains a strong and well-established foundation, especially in web development.

JavaScript is essential for creating interactive and dynamic web interfaces and continues to be the main language for front-end projects. On the other hand, Python is more commonly used in data science, automation, machine learning, and back-end applications, where its simplicity and extensive libraries provide strategic advantages.

The choice between Python and JavaScript often depends on project needs. For example, Python is ideal for data analysis, machine learning, and automation. A common example would be analyzing a company’s sales: with Python, large datasets can be organized, filtered, and summarized, quickly yielding insights on product performance, seasonality, and customer behavior.

JavaScript, however, is indispensable for web applications. For instance, an e-commerce site might use React, an open-source library based on JavaScript, to create a smooth, responsive browsing experience. JavaScript enables real-time updates, such as changing prices, adding items to the cart, or displaying product details without reloading the page, enhancing user experience.

NextAge Solutions: Supporting Python Adoption

Python’s emergence as the leading language on GitHub signals a significant transformation in the tech industry. With the rising focus on AI and data science, companies and developers are adapting to meet new demands, opening opportunities across sectors to leverage data and automation, integrating AI into their processes and products.

With over 16 years of experience in software development and application support, NextAge is well-positioned to help companies capitalize on Python’s growth and the expansion of AI. Our services include:

• Outsourcing 2.0: We provide access to specialized developers in Python and complementary technologies such as JavaScript, Node.JS, and .NET. Our experienced, certified professionals integrate seamlessly with client teams, ensuring low turnover, reducing costs, and boosting productivity.
• Systems Support 2.0: Ideal for companies needing continuous support for applications based on Python and other languages like Java, Angular, and React. With preventive support and a multidisciplinary team, we ensure systems operate at peak performance and security.

In addition to Python, NextAge supports a range of complementary technologies, including:

• JavaScript (ideal for front-end and interactive interface projects),
• Node.JS (excellent for full-stack development),
• Java and C# (suited for robust systems and enterprise integrations),
• React and Angular (essential libraries for dynamic, responsive applications).