Software Engineering Radio - the podcast for professional software developers
SE Radio 650: Robert Seacord on What's New in the C Programming Language
Jan 17, 2025
Robert Seacord, Standardization Lead at Woven by Toyota and an expert on C programming, dives into the latest advancements in the C language. He outlines the significance of the upcoming C23 standard, sharing eight key features that enhance safety and portability. The conversation also touches on C's pivotal role in automotive systems and compares its safety measures to Rust. Seacord emphasizes the importance of robust coding standards and tools, while highlighting why understanding C remains crucial for developers in 2025.
50:02
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The upcoming C23 standard introduces modern features like type inference and improved type safety, enhancing usability and security in programming.
- C remains vital in safety-critical systems like automotive applications due to its performance, precision, and ability to closely control hardware.
Deep dives
History and Importance of the C Standard
The C programming language was created in the early 1970s at Bell Labs as a system implementation language for Unix. The standardization of C began in the late 1970s when ANSI initiated efforts to formalize the language due to the divergence in different implementations. The first standard, known as C89, laid the foundation for a consistent programming language that allowed developers to write portable code across various compiler implementations. This standard acts as both a manual for implementers and a contract between compiler developers and users, ensuring a uniform coding experience.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
