Apple's Swift Playgrounds will teach the world to code

Apple introduced a new coding language called Swift two years ago with the goal of appealing to a new generation of developers. Now, it's releasing a new app called Swift Playgrounds, which will help kids learn how to code in Apple's language.

Swift Playgrounds teaches kids basic programming concepts and uses a cutesy animated character that performs simple challenges to make learning more enjoyable. There's even a feature that suggests language for code, acting as an autofill in a way. Apple CEO Tim Cook says that this free app is "a powerful new way for kids to learn to code."

Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi, added, "Swift Playgrounds is the only app of its kind that is both easy enough for students and beginners, yet powerful enough to write real code. It’s an innovative way to bring real coding concepts to life and empower the next generation with the skills they need to express their creativity."

While the app features a comprehensive library of lessons, Apple intends to release new standalone challenges over time so that students can continue to hone and develop their skills.

The final version of Swift Playgrounds will be released this autumn and will be free.