FT readers describe how AI is changing translation and coding work

In short: Readers of the Financial Times say AI tools are changing day to day work in translation and software development, often by shifting people into more checking and coordination.

What's going on

The Financial Times published a special “postbag” edition of its AI and work newsletter, based on messages from readers about how their jobs are changing.

Several software developers said AI is not only helping them write code faster, it is also making the work feel more mechanical. One reader said the “creative” parts of the job are being replaced by the tedium of checking what the machine produced, and that writing less code can make skills fade over time.

Another reader argued AI could change where companies hire developers. If software can be built in much shorter time frames, teams may value being in the same place or time zone more than saving money by hiring far away. In simple terms, if work moves from long projects to rapid bursts, it can matter more that everyone can talk quickly and meet in person (like trying to cook a meal together versus mailing ingredients back and forth).

Readers also described a growing split between junior and senior developers. A more junior developer said AI is good at producing small pieces of code, which used to be a common junior task. That can push junior workers toward bigger “how should this be built” decisions, which require coaching from experienced staff.

Translators echoed similar themes. Some said basic translation is now treated like a cheap, high volume service, with humans paid to polish machine output. Others said specialist translators still have strong prospects when mistakes could cause legal or financial harm.

What to watch

The FT writers said they will look for more evidence on whether AI leads companies to hire more locally, and how different jobs adapt as AI becomes a regular workplace tool.

Source: Financial Times