Philippe Ensarguet argues that artificial intelligence represents a fundamental transformation of software, comparable to previous major computing revolutions, rather than a simple incremental improvement. His analysis rests on the observation that every computing platform shift has radically redefined the very nature of software: from the mainframe era to personal computers, then to the web, to mobile, and now to AI.
The central thesis is that platform shifts do not merely improve existing software but fundamentally rewrite how applications are designed, developed, and used. Each transition created new possibilities that were impossible or unthinkable within the previous paradigm. AI follows this historical trajectory by introducing qualitatively different capabilities.
Ensarguet identifies five defining characteristics of AI-era software: it will be adaptive (adjusting its behavior based on context and user), composable (dynamically assembling modular capabilities), intent-driven (understanding goals rather than following explicit commands), context-aware (integrating complex situational information), and conversational (favoring natural dialogue over traditional interfaces).
The article warns against the most common temptation for established organizations: simply adding AI to their existing workflows and products. This approach, according to Ensarguet, misses the opportunity to fundamentally reimagine what software can accomplish. He compares this mistake to early attempts to "port" desktop applications to the web without rethinking the user experience to leverage the web's unique capabilities.
For technology leaders, Ensarguet recommends a strategy of proactive adaptation. Rather than waiting for established best practices to emerge, organizations must actively experiment with new interaction models and build AI-native architectures. This approach requires accepting the uncertainty and ambiguity inherent to platform transitions.
The article highlights the structural advantage startups hold during these moments of transition. Unencumbered by legacy systems and established mental models, they can explore new possibilities more freely. Established companies must consciously overcome their organizational inertia to compete with this agility.
The practical implications include the need to rethink the fundamental problems software seeks to solve, rather than simply optimizing existing solutions. Teams must explore new interaction paradigms where the user expresses intent and context rather than following predefined workflows. Systems must be designed to be flexible and adaptive from the outset.
Ensarguet concludes with a powerful observation: "Platform shifts are inevitable. How quickly we adapt to them is not." This quote encapsulates the strategic imperative for technology leaders: recognizing that AI transformation is not optional, but that the timing and manner of adaptation can determine organizational success or failure. The future of software will not consist of improved versions of today's applications, but of fundamentally different applications that we are only beginning to imagine.