Article by Ayman Alheraki on January 11 2026 10:35 AM
C++ is one of the oldest and most influential programming languages in modern software development. However, with the emergence of Rust, many developers are questioning: will C++ continue to thrive in the face of Rust's innovations? To answer this, we must explore the challenges C++ currently faces, the opportunities for improvement, and how these factors influence the decisions of new developers.
Complexity in Library Management and Linking:
Tools like CMake and the reliance on the #include system add complexity to building large-scale projects and linking libraries.
Compared to Rust, which offers a streamlined and comprehensive solution through its Cargo package manager, C++ appears to lag behind.
Although tools like vcpkg and Conan exist, they are not officially integrated or widely adopted.
Memory Management Complexity:
One of C++'s greatest strengths is its fine-grained memory control, but this also creates common pitfalls like memory leaks and race conditions.
Rust provides effective solutions with its Ownership system and Borrow Checker, ensuring memory safety without sacrificing performance.
Learning Curve for Beginners:
C++ requires a deep understanding of low-level concepts and intricate details, making it less attractive to new programmers compared to languages like Python, Go, or Rust.
Slow Evolution:
Despite significant advancements, such as Move Semantics and Modern Templates, C++ evolves at a slower pace compared to Rust, which is designed with modern requirements in mind.
Power and Flexibility:
C++ remains the first choice for low-level system development, operating systems, and high-performance 3D gaming, making it hard to replace in the near term.
Widespread Support:
Due to its long history, C++ enjoys extensive support from libraries, tools, and frameworks. This legacy makes transitioning to Rust or other languages challenging for many organizations.
Ongoing Innovation:
The introduction of Modules as a replacement for #include in C++20 is a groundbreaking step toward simplifying large-scale project management and reducing compilation times.
Future updates, possibly in C++29 or beyond, are likely to include innovative memory management features to rival other languages.
Dominance in Legacy Projects:
Millions of lines of existing C++ code are in use today, making it impractical to rewrite them in Rust or any other language.
Unified Package Management:
C++ must adopt an integrated, official package manager like Rust's Cargo to simplify building and linking projects.
Memory Management Solutions:
Introducing an optional memory safety system that lets developers choose between manual control and automated safety could be revolutionary.
Simplified Tools:
Developing user-friendly tools that integrate directly with the language could reduce reliance on external tools like CMake.
As time progresses and newer generations of programmers emerge, there are genuine concerns that C++ may lose its appeal to developers seeking more modern and user-friendly tools. However, this does not guarantee Rust will entirely replace it.
Future Generations Will Prefer Rust If:
C++ continues to have the same level of complexity.
No effective solutions for package management and memory safety are introduced.
C++ Will Remain Competitive If:
Innovations like Modules gain widespread adoption.
Memory management features surpass those of Rust.
Efforts are made to simplify learning and attract new developers.
2025-2029:
Broader adoption of Modules, streamlining code management and reducing compilation times.
Development of official, integrated package management systems.
2030 and Beyond:
Without comprehensive solutions for memory and package management, C++ may become less popular among new developers.
Conversely, if C++ introduces groundbreaking features, it could remain a primary choice for critical systems.
C++ is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, but its longevity depends on how well it adapts to modern demands. The C++ community must address the barriers that discourage new developers, such as complex library management and memory handling. If C++ can overcome these challenges, it will continue to be a dominant force in software development for decades to come.