Replit CEO Amjad Masad discusses the evolution of computing, from mainframes to AI agents creating software on demand. This talk explores the future of software engineering, predicting a significant shift in how businesses operate and work gets done. Masad details the infrastructure needed to support AI agents and the rising levels of autonomy.
Amjad Masad is the co-founder & CEO of Replit, now valued at $3B after a recent $250M Series C. He’s spent nearly a decade making programming accessible to all—and with the rise of AI, that vision is closer than ever. In this talk from AI Startup School on June 17, 2025, Amjad traces the arc of computing from mainframes to personal computers to a future where AI agents can create software on demand. He explains why the value of traditional software will approach zero, fundamentally reshaping how companies are built and how work gets done.
Apply to Y Combinator: https://www.ycombinator.com/apply Work at a startup: https://www.ycombinator.com/jobs Chapters:
00:22 – Evolution of Computing
01:27 – The Rise of Software Engineering
02:16 – Replit’s Vision: Making Programming Accessible
02:42 – The Role of AI in Software Development
04:32 – Challenges and Infrastructure for AI Agents
05:03 – Building a Scalable and Secure Environment
06:08 – Future of Software Engineering Agents
09:25 – Autonomy Levels in AI Agents
15:56 – Predictions for the Software Market
18:31 – Impact on Business and Employment
19:58 – The Role of Generalist Employees
26:00 – Audience Q&A