Artificial intelligence will enhance, not replace, the role of software engineers: Bill Gates tells Nikhil Kamath

Microsoft founder Bill Gates assured the technology community that artificial intelligence (AI) will not replace software professionals, but rather increase their productivity. Gates made these remarks during the debut episode of Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath’s new podcast series: People, WTF.

During the 30-minute interview, Gates recalled his early days at Microsoft and discussed the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in various fields, including software engineering.

Addressing software professionals’ growing concerns about artificial intelligence, Gates emphasized: “We still need these software engineers because we’re not going to stop needing them.”

The role of artificial intelligence in increasing productivity

Gates assured listeners that artificial intelligence would not replace programmers in the foreseeable future, despite its potential to revolutionize several industries.

Gates described concerns about artificial intelligence replacing software engineers as “alarmist,” emphasizing that the technology will complement, not replace, human capabilities.

“The amazing thing about this technology is that we know it can help in key areas and we know it can create educational teachers. We have seen several projects in India and the US produce great results,” Gates said.

The potential and limitations of AI automation

Gates acknowledged that AI automation could reach the point where it could replace all jobs, but said such a scenario was unlikely within the next two decades. “Although I’m not sure about that,” he added, highlighting AI’s current role in increasing productivity and supporting existing roles, especially in key areas such as education and healthcare.

Gates’ relationship with India and the broader impact of artificial intelligence

Reflecting on his relationship with India, Gates shared how Microsoft’s partnerships with Indian computer science graduates have helped the company establish a strong presence in the country. “I have a fantastic relationship with India, starting with my experience with Microsoft, where we hired some very bright computer science graduates and brought them to Seattle. Then they came back and created a development center for us, which now has four locations and employs 25,000 people,” Gates said.

The conversation with Kamath covered a range of topics, including capitalism, socialism and the role of artificial intelligence in tackling global challenges such as healthcare, education and climate change. Gates also stressed the importance of responsible development of artificial intelligence and its potential to be a force for good.