AI agents are transforming what it's like to be a coder: 'It's been unlike any other time.'
Business Insider
February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
AI agents powered by large language models are revolutionizing software engineering, reshaping how coders spend their time and approach their work. These tools can generate code with remarkable efficiency, enabling startups and established companies alike to achieve unprecedented productivity levels. Jesal Gadhia, cofounder of Cora, noted that his six-person team produced an extraordinary amount of code in its first year—something that would have required 20 to 30 engineers just five years prior. Similarly, at Canva, AI agents handle tasks overnight, freeing up senior engineers to focus on reviewing AI output and overseeing projects rather than writing code from scratch.
The rise of AI agents has sparked a shift toward human-AI collaboration, often referred to as the "centaur phase" in software engineering. While these tools automate routine coding tasks, they still require skilled engineers to define problems precisely and ensure the accuracy of AI-generated solutions. At Canva, for instance, teams draft detailed instructions for agents to execute, while engineers apply a "human touch" to meet quality standards. This partnership model highlights how AI is evolving from a tool to an integral part of the development process.
Despite their potential, AI agents face challenges such as technical limitations and scalability issues. For example, hallucinations—AI-generated errors—remain a concern. Additionally, industries are still grappling with how to integrate AI into workflows, validate its output, and adapt to these changes. While some fear mass job losses, others see AI as augmenting rather than replacing human roles. Experts like Mustafa Suleyman caution that AI could eventually handle most professional tasks within 12 to 18 months, while others argue the impact on white-collar jobs may be less severe.
The broader implications of AI in software engineering extend beyond coding, raising questions about its potential to disrupt other fields. As AI grows more capable, workers must continually redefine their roles, focusing on strategic thinking and oversight rather than repetitive tasks. This shift underscores the need for businesses to adapt by redesigning jobs to support AI adoption and fostering collaboration between humans and machines. Ultimately, while AI agents are transforming coding and reshaping industries, their success depends on leveraging human expertise to guide and refine their capabilities.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/15/2026