LLM Time (graydon2.dreamwidth.org)

In a candid reflection, a software professional discusses the transformative impact of large language models (LLMs) on the software industry, particularly noting how their capabilities have significantly advanced over the last year. This evolution has altered the day-to-day realities of coding, with many developers now relying heavily on LLMs for substantial portions of their work. The author highlights a shift from manual coding to generating vast amounts of code effortlessly, while also facing an increasing wave of security vulnerabilities that the LLMs can exploit more effectively than they can write clean code. This phenomenon creates an ongoing "arms race" in security and development. The author expresses concern over the community's fracturing, fueled by fears of job loss and identity crises among programmers as they grapple with the rapid changes in work dynamics. Some developers embrace LLMs, while others resist, leading to tensions, resignations, and debates over software licenses. The situation has led to a chaotic environment where traditional workflows are upended, and the future remains uncertain. As the economic implications of these tools become more pronounced, the author reflects on the profound and disconcerting changes within the profession, emphasizing that 2025 and early 2026 may mark a pivotal moment in software development.