Apple Swift programming language

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the Apple Swift programming language, particularly its suitability for someone returning to programming after a long hiatus. Participants explore the merits and drawbacks of Swift compared to other programming languages like Java and Python.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in returning to programming with Swift and questions its viability as a choice.
  • Another participant suggests sticking to more established languages like Java or Python, implying that Swift may not be the best option.
  • In contrast, a different participant argues that Swift could be more enjoyable than Java or Python, citing positive impressions from reading its documentation.
  • A further participant raises concerns about Swift being proprietary to Apple, questioning its compatibility with non-Apple hardware and speculating on its long-term support and viability.
  • Another participant shares a past experience with programming in Flash, indicating challenges faced with that language, though this does not directly relate to Swift.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views regarding the suitability of Swift, with no consensus reached on whether it is a good choice for returning programmers.

Contextual Notes

Concerns about Swift's proprietary nature and potential lifespan are noted, but the discussion does not resolve these issues.

Algr
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I used to program in Microsoft Quickbasic before MS abandoned it. I wasn't too advanced - my best program was a variant on Minesweeper. That was ages ago, but I'd like to get back into programing.

Now Apple has this Swift programing language. Is swift a good choice for me?
 
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Way to fresh if you ask me. Keep to something well established - Java or Python.
 
It may be fresh, but I think you'll have a lot more fun with it than Java or Python. I've been reading the docs on it recently and it looks pretty good to me.
 
Before you spend much time on Swift, ask yourself two questions:

1. Is it proprietary to Apple?
2. Will it work on non-Apple hardware?

Then estimate its lifespan before Apple stops supporting it, or changes it to something incompatible. (I would bet on somewhere between 6 months and 3 years maximum, given their track record.)
 
I also tried programing in Flash, but couldn't get anywhere with it. It was really opaque and I couldn't figure out why the program wouldn't do anything.
 

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