Apple Swift programming language

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The discussion centers around the suitability of Apple's Swift programming language for someone looking to return to programming after a long hiatus. While some participants express skepticism about Swift due to its proprietary nature and potential lack of long-term support, others advocate for its modern features and enjoyable programming experience compared to established languages like Java and Python. Concerns are raised about Swift's compatibility with non-Apple hardware and the risk of Apple discontinuing or altering the language significantly in the near future. Additionally, a personal anecdote highlights challenges faced with programming in Flash, emphasizing the importance of user-friendly languages for beginners.
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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.
 

Thread 'For those who ask: "What programming language should I learn?"'

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