How “TuringBots” are reshaping the developer’s role

Forrester‘s latest research pivot highlights how autonomous coding through AI agents is rapidly transforming software development beyond simple code generation. This strategic shift in research focus recognizes that the convergence of generative AI and autonomous agents represents the next evolution in software engineering—what Forrester calls “TuringBots”—creating comprehensive systems capable of independently creating, testing, and delivering applications without human intervention.

The big picture: Forrester analyst Christopher Condo is dedicating significant research resources to understanding how AI-powered autonomous coding solutions will revolutionize the entire software development lifecycle.

• The research will build upon foundational work already established by VP and principal analyst Diego Lo Giudice through reports like “The State Of TuringBots” and “The Future Of TuringBots.”
• This strategic pivot reflects Forrester’s assessment that the pace and scale of innovation in autonomous coding is too significant to approach casually.

Key details: Condo and Lo Giudice will collaborate on a comprehensive “TuringBot Landscape” research initiative focused specifically on the coding aspects of the software development lifecycle.

• The research aims to identify core and extended use cases for coding TuringBots, as well as mapping their essential functional capabilities.
• This landscape analysis is scheduled for completion in Q4 2025, suggesting a substantial research undertaking.

What’s next: Forrester is actively seeking engagement with vendors in the autonomous coding space to inform their upcoming research.

• Condo will be proactively reaching out to companies offering autonomous coding solutions in the coming months.
• The research scope extends beyond basic code generation to include AI capabilities in planning, backlog management, and testing—signaling a comprehensive examination of AI’s potential across the entire development process.

Why this matters: This research initiative reflects how rapidly AI is transforming software development from augmented coding assistance to fully autonomous development capabilities.

• By dedicating significant resources to this area, Forrester is positioning itself to help organizations navigate the disruptive potential of autonomous coding technologies.
• The strategic timing suggests Forrester anticipates autonomous coding will reach mainstream adoption faster than many organizations might expect.