Only 9% of developers think AI code can be used without human oversight, BairesDev survey reveals

Senior software developers are preparing for a major shift in how they work as artificial intelligence becomes central to their workflows, according to BairesDev’s latest Dev Barometer report published today. VentureBeat was given an exclusive early look and the findings below come directly from that report. The quarterly global survey, which polled 501 developers and 19 project managers across 92 software initiatives, finds that nearly two-thirds (65%) of senior developers expect their roles to be redefined by AI in 2026. The data highlights a transformation underway in software development: fewer routine coding tasks, more emphasis on design and strategy, and a rising need for AI fluency.From Coders to StrategistsAmong those anticipating change, 74% say they expect to shift from hands-on coding to designing solutions. Another 61% plan to integrate AI-generated code into their workflows, and half foresee spending more time on system strategy and architecture.“It’s not about lines of c