Why Ada, a language from the disco era is suddenly popular again

GitHubAbout 2 min readJul 24, 2025Watch original
THE SUMMARYAI-generated

Key Concepts:

  • ADA programming language
  • TIOBE Index
  • Safety-critical systems
  • Built-in security features
  • Avionics and automotive industries
  • Software complexity

ADA's Resurgence in the TIOBE Index

The video highlights the unexpected return of the ADA programming language to the top 10 of the TIOBE index, surpassing more commonly used languages like Python and Java. This resurgence is particularly notable given ADA's origins in the disco era.

ADA's Strengths: Security and Safety-Critical Applications

The primary reason cited for ADA's renewed popularity is its built-in security features. According to the TIOBE CEO, this inherent security makes ADA particularly well-suited for safety-critical systems. Industries such as avionics and automotive are rediscovering ADA's value in these contexts.

Skepticism and Counterarguments

The video acknowledges some skepticism surrounding ADA's ranking. Some suggest that its rise in the TIOBE index might be a temporary fluke or potentially related to confusion with cryptocurrency.

Evidence of Growing Interest

Despite the skepticism, the video points to concrete evidence suggesting genuine renewed interest in ADA. This includes an increase in ADA developer events and anecdotal evidence of industry discussions about the language.

Implications of Increasing Software Complexity

The video concludes by suggesting that the increasing complexity of modern software systems may be a driving factor behind ADA's resurgence. As software becomes more intricate and the need for robust security grows, ADA's strengths become increasingly relevant. The video implies that it might be worthwhile to revisit ADA as a potential solution for complex and safety-critical applications.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

ADA, a language known for its security features, is experiencing a comeback, driven by the increasing demand for safety and reliability in complex software systems, particularly in industries like avionics and automotive. While some skepticism exists, the rise in developer activity and industry interest suggests a genuine resurgence.

AI summaries can miss context or contain errors. Check important details against the original video.

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