Kotlin

Definition

Kotlin is a modern, statically typed programming language developed by JetBrains that runs on the Java Virtual Machine and is the preferred language for Android application development.

Overview

Kotlin was created by JetBrains, the company behind popular IDEs, to address frustrations with verbose Java syntax while staying fully interoperable with existing Java code and libraries. Because it compiles to the same bytecode as Java and runs on the JVM, teams can adopt Kotlin gradually inside an existing Java codebase, mixing both languages in the same project without a full rewrite. Kotlin introduces features aimed at reducing common sources of bugs and boilerplate, including built-in null safety that distinguishes nullable from non-nullable types at compile time, data classes that eliminate repetitive getter and setter code, and coroutines for writing asynchronous code in a sequential, readable style rather than deeply nested callbacks. These features made Kotlin popular well beyond Android, including server-side development with frameworks like Spring Boot. Google announced first-class support for Kotlin on Android alongside Java, and it has since become the language Google recommends for new Android app development, commonly used together with tools like Android Studio and Gradle for building and packaging apps. Kotlin Multiplatform has further expanded its reach, letting teams share business logic across Android, iOS, and other targets from a single Kotlin codebase.

Key Features

• Full interoperability with existing Java code and libraries
• Built-in null safety enforced at compile time
• Concise syntax with data classes and reduced boilerplate
• Coroutines for readable, sequential-style asynchronous code
• Official first-class language for Android development
• Kotlin Multiplatform for sharing code across Android, iOS, and other targets
• Strong tooling support through JetBrains IDEs

Use Cases

Frequently Asked Questions

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