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Google Bard vs ChatGPT: Discover the ultimate coding assistant

February 15, 2024

Google Bard vs ChatGPT: Discover the ultimate coding assistant
Radu PoclitariRadu Poclitari, Copywriter

Generative AI has transcended the realm of buzzwords and emerged as a game-changer in various fields. When it comes to coding, the advent of tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard has ignited curiosity and raised questions about their capabilities. While these AI assistants may not replace seasoned coders, they certainly hold promise as valuable allies capable of generating beginner-level code or providing a solid foundation for human developers to build upon.  

Tech companies AI integration


In this engaging article, we will delve into the nuances that set Google Bard and ChatGPT apart, evaluating their effectiveness and utility for developers.

Let’s get started! 

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What is Google Bard?

Bard is a cutting-edge AI chat platform that functions similarly to ChatGPT. With its advanced natural language processing capabilities, Bard can also be used to generate a wide range of content types that cater to various industries and niches, including programming.

Powered by state-of-the-art natural language processing capabilities, Bard excels at understanding the context and requirements of your prompts, generating unique and tailored text based on the given inputs.

Here are three standout features that set Bard apart:

  1. Seamless Google integration: Bard is designed to seamlessly integrate with the Google ecosystem, harnessing the vast knowledge and resources available through products like Google Search and Scholar. By tapping into these valuable sources, Bard delivers real-time and up-to-date information to its users. What's more, it personalizes the experience by leveraging user search history and preferences, ensuring accurate and relevant responses.
  2. Voice-based interaction: Take your interaction with Bard to the next level with voice-based communication. With voice commands, users can efficiently navigate through a variety of tasks, from accessing information and searching the web to scheduling appointments and more. This feature is particularly beneficial for busy individuals or those with accessibility needs, as it enables hands-free operation.
  3. Code generation and debugging: Responding to high user demand, Google Bard extends its capabilities to programming and software development. It excels in tasks such as code generation, debugging, and code explanation across more than 20 programming languages, including popular ones like Python, Java, JavaScript, and C++. Additionally, Bard allows for seamless code export to Google Colab and even assists in writing functions for Google Sheets. If you encounter errors in your code, simply prompt Bard by saying, "This code didn't work, please fix it," and it will help you debug the code. Bard can also explain code snippets and provide insights into code within GitHub repositories, similar to the code assistance features offered by GitHub's Copilot.
Google Bard coding assistant


Empowering developers: How Bard enhances coding efficiency?

When it comes to programming, Bard is a valuable companion for developers at any level. It's designed to enhance productivity, foster creativity, and streamline efficiency, making it a must-have tool in every programmer's arsenal.

Let's dive into how Bard can revolutionize your coding journey:

  • Sparking ideas: Need fresh inspiration for your projects, features, or algorithms? Bard is there to ignite your creativity, helping you generate innovative ideas that breathe life into your code.
  • Writing code: Bard lends a helping hand in code creation. Whether it's generating code snippets or offering helpful suggestions, Bard streamlines the writing process, saving you time and effort.
  • Debugging code: Tackling bugs can be a headache, but Bard has your back. It assists in pinpointing the root causes of errors, providing valuable insights and suggestions to debug and optimize your code.
  • Documenting code: Bard effortlessly generates documentation or offers suggestions to help you document your code effectively, ensuring clarity and maintainability.
  • Collaborative tool: Bard offers a collaborative platform, facilitating seamless communication and teamwork, so you can achieve coding greatness together.
  • Language learning companion: Bard acts as your trusty guide, providing interactive tutorials and exercises to help you grasp new languages with ease.
  • Staying ahead of the curve: Stay up-to-date with the latest programming trends, as Bard keeps you informed about cutting-edge technologies and tools through timely news and updates.

Also read: 12 most in-demand programming languages to learn in 2023

Now let’s take a look at ChatGPT – the hottest trend today in coding. 

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT, also known as Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT), is an advanced language model developed by OpenAI. It harnesses the power of machine learning to understand and generate human-like text, revolutionizing the way we engage in conversations.

Let's delve into the three remarkable features that make ChatGPT a game-changer:

  1. Natural Language Processing mastery: ChatGPT excels in understanding and processing natural language. Its deep learning algorithms enable it to grasp the nuances of complex sentences and context, empowering it to provide accurate and contextually relevant responses in real-time. 
  2. Embracing linguistic diversity: With its multilingual support, ChatGPT breaks down language barriers. It effortlessly comprehends and responds to user queries in a wide array of languages, opening doors for businesses to engage with a global audience. From English and Spanish to Chinese and Arabic, ChatGPT has you covered.
  3. Empowering developers: Developers seeking a versatile and programmatically accessible AI tool will find ChatGPT to be their perfect ally. With an easy-to-use API, developers can integrate ChatGPT into their own applications, unlocking a world of possibilities. Customized conversational experiences, increased productivity, and reduced errors are just a few benefits developers can harness. By leveraging ChatGPT, developers can elevate their skills, fuel their creativity, and streamline their tasks, ultimately becoming more efficient and effective in their roles.
ChatGPT coding assistant

Empowering developers: How ChatGPT enhances coding efficiency?

ChatGPT is a valuable tool for programmers. Its capabilities extend far beyond generating text, bringing tremendous value to various aspects of the coding process. 

Let's explore how ChatGPT can assist programmers in unleashing their full potential:

  • Testing: With ChatGPT, developers can conduct real-time or prompt-driven code testing, ensuring a more streamlined and efficient coding experience.
  • Debugging companion: By leveraging its deep understanding of code logic, developers can rely on ChatGPT to identify errors, provide error messages, and assist in the debugging process.
  • Seamless documentation: ChatGPT can analyze complex code, comprehend its functionality, and generate clear explanations.
  • Code generation: Whether it's generating boilerplate code or assisting in building complex algorithms, ChatGPT has your back.
  • Data preprocessing: ChatGPT can efficiently clean, transform, and prepare datasets for testing and training, saving developers valuable time and effort.
  • 3D designs: Integrating ChatGPT into the Unity Editor unlocks a world of possibilities. Developers can harness its capabilities for extensive 3D modeling and in-game design.
  • Threat detection: ChatGPT can aid in threat detection by generating code and analyzing existing code to identify potential vulnerabilities.
  • Customized extensions: Developers can customize ChatGPT to suit their specific needs by generating extensions based on their unique usage patterns and preferences.

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6 ways developers can use Google Bard

In Bard's FAQ, Google answers the question "Can Bard help with coding?" with the answer, "Yes, Bard can help with coding and topics about coding, but Bard is still experimental and you are responsible for your use of code or coding explanations. You should therefore use discretion and carefully test and review all code for errors, bugs and vulnerabilities before relying on it. Code may also be subject to an open-source licence, and Bard provides related information.” 

Beyond the hype, here are some practical ways Bard can become your trusty companion in software development:

  1. Code generation

With Bard, you can simply provide basic information about what you want your code to do, and it will generate the code for you. This saves you time and effort, letting you focus on the bigger picture.

  1. Debugging

If you encounter an error or the code doesn't meet your requirements, just ask Bard to fix it by saying, "This code didn't work, please help me debug it." Bard will roll up its virtual sleeves and assist you in identifying and resolving the issue.

  1. Code optimization

Bard can optimize your code, making it faster and more efficient. Simply respond to Bard's initial output with a request like, "Could you please make this code faster?" or "Find any error handling clauses I might have missed." Bard will analyze your code and provide suggestions to enhance its performance. Below is an example of it: 

Code optimization with Google Bard
  1. Translation

Bard can translate code between 20 different programming languages. This feature is a game-changer for developers working on projects involving multiple languages, enabling seamless collaboration and understanding across teams.

  1. Explanation

Bard can explain code snippets, breaking down intricate concepts into more digestible terms. Say goodbye to puzzling over cryptic lines of code and hello to clarity and understanding.

  1. Limitations and precautions

While Bard is a powerful tool, it's still in its early stages of development. Keep in mind that it may occasionally provide inaccurate or misleading information, despite presenting it confidently. When it comes to coding, always double-check Bard's responses, thoroughly test your code, and review it for errors, bugs, and vulnerabilities. Exercise caution and use your expertise to ensure the reliability and security of your code.

Looking to hire high-performing AI developers? Discover the talent you need today. 

Google Bard FAQs

Q: Can Bard write programming code?

A: Bard can generate code in various programming languages like Python, Java, and C++. Whether you need code for data analysis or machine learning, Bard has got your back.

Q: Can Bard format my code?

A: Yes! Here's how Bard can format your code:

  • Adhering to specific programming language or organizational style guidelines
  • Enhancing readability and comprehension
  • Boosting efficiency and maintainability

Q: Can Bard find errors in code?

A: Bard can identify different types of errors, including syntax errors, logical errors, and runtime errors. 

Q: Can Bard test my code?

A: Bard is still learning the ropes of testing, but it can offer assistance in testing your code. Bard can provide feedback on your code's structure and logic and can even help you pinpoint potential errors to fine-tune your code.

Q: Can Bard generate deployment scripts for my code?

A: Bard can generate a deployment script tailored to your needs. Just provide Bard with essential information such as the programming language, platform, dependencies, and configuration settings. Bard will create a text file with simple and clear commands to deploy different parts of your code effectively.

Also read: Flutter vs React Native vs Kotlin: Which will drive app development in 2023?

7 ways developers can use ChatGPT

ChatGPT goes beyond when it comes to coding possibilities. Let's explore some practical ways ChatGPT can revolutionize your coding experience.

  1. Generating codes

Instead of producing basic functionality like Bard, ChatGPT can generate complex code snippets, such as creating an entire class or module. It's a game-changer for developers of all skill levels. Check out how ChatGPT can create a React component based on your requirements.

ChatGPT generating React component
  1. Generating documents

ChatGPT's natural language processing skills come to the rescue. It can accurately generate documents by understanding your requirements. See how ChatGPT generates documentation for a code snippet.

ChatGPT generating documentation for a code snippet
  1. Simplifying code and explaining complex snippets

ChatGPT simplifies this process by generating natural language explanations for code snippets. It's like having a coding mentor by your side. Discover an example where ChatGPT explains a small code snippet for beginners.

Code snippet explanation in ChatGPT
  1. Translate code to another language

With its extensive training in multiple programming languages, it can accurately port code between them. Just provide ChatGPT with the prompts, and it will work its magic. Take a look at how ChatGPT seamlessly ports PHP code to JavaScript.

PHP code to JavaScript
  1. Debugging assistance

ChatGPT excels in debugging code. In fact, a study found its bug-fixing performance comparable to advanced deep learning approaches. Check out the benefits of ChatGPT for code debugging.

Debbuging code in ChatGPT
  1. Optimize a block of code

ChatGPT can optimize your code by suggesting improvements or generating an optimized version. Witness the transformation as ChatGPT optimizes a JavaScript code snippet.

Optimized version of a JavaScript code

There's more! ChatGPT's prowess extends to other areas too. It can even create mini-games like snake and pong using JavaScript and HTML5.

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ChatGPT FAQs

Q: Will ChatGPT replace programmers?

A: Not at the moment, and probably not in the near future either. While ChatGPT can write code at the level of a talented first-year programming student, it has limitations. It may reduce the demand for entry-level programmers to some extent, but currently, it mainly simplifies the coding process and assists programmers. However, who knows what the future holds? By 2030, things may change significantly.

Q: How can I get coding answers from ChatGPT?

A: Simply ask! When using ChatGPT, keep in mind that it won't magically do all your work with just one question. However, you can use it as a helpful resource and assistant. It can provide you with a wealth of useful information. As always, it's important to test and verify the information it provides.

Q: Which programming languages does ChatGPT know?

A: ChatGPT is knowledgeable about most programming languages. You can try popular modern languages like PHP, Python, Java, Kotlin, Swift, C#, and many more. Additionally, it can even handle obscure languages like COBOL, Fortran, Forth, and LISP.

Summing up

After thoroughly evaluating Google Bard and ChatGPT in various problem-solving scenarios over the past months, it is evident that while Google Bard excels in generating creative written content, ChatGPT emerges as the more suitable choice for coding-related tasks. With its conversational capabilities, comprehensive understanding of programming languages, customizable options, and strong developer community support, ChatGPT proves to be a valuable tool for developers seeking coding assistance, code suggestions, and guidance. 

However, Bard still has its merits. We hope that this article serves as a helpful resource in your day-to-day programming endeavors.

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