Artificial intelligence is changing how software is designed, developed and tested, but developers are unlikely to disappear from the process, according to AWS Distinguished Developer Advocate Darko Mesaroš.

Mesaroš said “vibe coding”, an approach in which developers use AI tools to generate software through natural-language instructions, is likely to remain part of the development landscape. However, he also highlighted the importance of a more structured method known as spec-driven development.

In spec-driven development, developers first define what a software application should do, including its requirements, features and expected behaviour. AI tools can then assist in generating code based on those specifications.

Mesaroš believes this approach can help developers maintain greater control over projects, particularly when working with increasingly capable AI coding assistants and autonomous agents.

The growing use of AI is also changing the responsibilities of software developers. Instead of focusing only on writing code, developers may need to spend more time defining problems, reviewing AI-generated output, testing applications and ensuring that software meets user requirements.

Despite advances in AI coding tools, challenges remain. AI agents can misunderstand instructions, produce incorrect code or struggle with complex development tasks that require broader technical context.

Mesaroš also discussed the role of AWS in supporting India’s developer ecosystem and the adoption of AI-assisted software development.
As AI becomes more deeply integrated into programming, the industry is increasingly examining how developers can combine automation with technical expertise, planning and human oversight.

The shift suggests that the future of coding may involve not just writing software, but also directing, evaluating and improving the systems that help build it.