Cursor, Codex, Runable: Devs embrace AI agents but fear losing core skills
A senior dev says AI now handles 80% of their workflow, and it's dangerously addictive.
In a viral Reddit post titled "Coders in 2030," user u/Happy_Macaron5197 reveals they've shifted nearly their entire development workflow to AI agents. Tools like Cursor and OpenAI's Codex handle backend logic, while Runable manages UI components. Figma and Stitch are used for quick mockups, though they still require manual CSS tweaking. The developer, who claims a strong technical background and comfort with database schemas, says the speed is addictive: what used to take a full week—wiring authentication and designing a non-Bootstrap layout—now takes minutes.
But the post raises a pressing concern: Are developers with deep technical skills formatting themselves to eventually forget how to code from scratch? The user describes this as a "weird gray area"—professional speed gains weighed against potential atrophy of foundational abilities. The thread has sparked debate among developers about whether heavy reliance on AI agents is a natural evolution or a dangerous crutch. The post underscores a growing tension in the industry: as AI code generation tools become more capable, even senior engineers question the long-term health of their raw coding skills.
- Developer uses Cursor and Codex for backend logic, Runable for UI, and Figma/Stitch for mockups.
- Tasks that previously took a week (auth wiring, clean layout) are now handled in minutes by AI agents.
- Post sparks debate on whether heavy AI reliance erodes foundational coding skills over time.
Why It Matters
As AI code generation grows, even senior devs risk losing the ability to code from scratch.