What it does
Kotlin is a concise, statically typed programming language developed by JetBrains and contributors. The official documentation describes it as interoperable with Java and usable for JVM, Android, JavaScript, WebAssembly, and native targets. Developers can start in IntelliJ IDEA or Android Studio, where Kotlin is included, or use the standalone command-line compiler. This record covers the language and compiler project, not either IDE as a separate product.
Start with a console application
The Kotlin getting-started guide recommends an IDE-supported workflow for many users. Its JVM tutorial creates a project in IntelliJ IDEA through File | New | Project, selects Kotlin, then writes and runs a small console application; it also introduces a unit test. Those are documented setup directions, not UI actions performed for this listing.
A reader who prefers a terminal can install the standalone compiler and follow the command-line guide instead. The IDE and command-line routes use the same language, but the surrounding build and project configuration differ. Choose the target platform before adding dependencies, since a JVM application, Android app, JavaScript bundle, and native binary need different build arrangements.
Kotlin's compiler and standard library are open source. The repository's license README says Apache 2.0 applies to code copyrighted by JetBrains and that some third-party sections use other licenses. This listing is about the language toolchain; it does not imply that IntelliJ IDEA or Android Studio has the same license or pricing model.
Strengths
- The language supports JVM and other documented targets while interoperating with Java.
- Official documentation offers both an IDE-first console-app tutorial and a standalone compiler path.
- The compiler repository publishes Apache 2.0 terms for JetBrains-copyrighted code and identifies third-party license exceptions.
Watch out for
- Project setup and dependencies depend on the selected target and build workflow.
- Kotlin is a language and compiler toolchain, not a standalone editor; the IDEs used with it have separate terms.
Best for
- Developers who want a statically typed language for JVM or multiplatform application work
- Learning Kotlin through a small console app and first unit test
Sources
- Kotlin programming language site (Oct 25, 2026)
- Get started with Kotlin (Oct 25, 2026)
- Create a console app tutorial (Oct 25, 2026)
- Kotlin command-line compiler (Oct 25, 2026)
- JetBrains Kotlin upstream repository (Oct 25, 2026)
- Kotlin third-party license scope (Oct 25, 2026)
- Kotlin Apache License 2.0 (Oct 25, 2026)