OpenAI shows progress in using AI to modernize COBOL code

The Verge reported that many critical systems worldwide, including those at the IRS, banks, airlines, and government infrastructure, still rely on COBOL, an outdated programming language developed in 1959.

OpenAI announced notable advancements in its latest AI models that improve their ability to migrate legacy software written in older languages like COBOL into modern code, aiming to assist organizations in maintaining and modernizing these older systems.

COBOL remains deeply embedded in essential services, with IBM stating it supports over 40% of online banking systems, 80% of in-person credit card transactions, and 95% of ATM transactions, as well as numerous government programs such as Social Security and the IRS.

Despite decades of attempts to replace COBOL, it continues to be widely used because of the risks involved in changing these critical systems, making AI-driven modernization a potentially significant development.