Enterprises relying on IBM i modernization (formerly AS/400 modernization) systems know it’s a powerhouse for mission-critical operations—trusted for reliability, performance, and cost efficiency. Yet modernizing legacy RPG-based applications remains a major hurdle: technical debt, scarce RPG expertise, and the risk of disrupting critical workflows transform a high-stakes challenge. To bridge this gap, IBM is introducing IBM watsonx Code Assistant for i, a generative AI powered coding assistant purpose-built to accelerate modernization with context-aware assistance directly in the developer’s IDE. IBM watsonx Code Assistant for i is at the center of a new wave of IBM i modernization, helping enterprises tackle RPG code challenges with AI-powered efficiency.
Purpose-Built for RPG & IBM i Workloads
Built on IBM’s flagship Granite code model, fine-tuned specifically for RPG and IBM i modernization applications, the assistant empowers developers—novices and veterans alike—with features to explain, document, and eventually generate or transform RPG code. Starting with context-aware code explanations, future updates will enable unit test generation, code transformations, and more, all integrated into Visual Studio Code environments.
This contextual intelligence addresses a glaring enterprise pain point: shrinking pools of RPG-trained developers. The RPG Code Assistant acts as a virtual mentor, helping newcomers understand complex codebases and veterans to accelerate enhancements—reducing ramp-up time and preserving institutional knowledge.
From Private Preview to Public Launch
Initially unveiled in early 2025 at IBM Think and later showcased at COMMON POWERUp, watsonx for IBM i is currently in private preview, with a public beta rolling out to early adopters soon. The first release will focus on code explanation features, with generation and test support arriving later in the year.
Clients will have cloud, on-prem, or hybrid deployment flexibility, aligning with governance models and data requirements. With AS/400 modernization becoming a pressing need, this flexibility ensures enterprises modernize at their own pace while maintaining compliance.
Why It Matters—Now
- Accelerated Modernization – Developers can quickly comprehend and document legacy code, speeding up modernization projects and reducing delays.
- Minimized Risk – Built-in intelligence and context-aware guidance help mitigate common errors and reduce disruption to critical business applications.
- Talent Enablement – Bridging skill gaps ensures continuity even as seasoned RPG developers retire.
- Future-Ready – With IBM AI coding tool transformation and test generation on the roadmap, enterprises can look forward to tangible productivity gains.
Prolifics: Your Trusted AI Modernization Partner
At Prolifics, we specialize in blending emerging AI capabilities into your core legacy modernization journey, safely and effectively. Here’s how we can help you activate IBM watsonx Code Assistant for i:
- Assessment & Strategy — We evaluate your current IBM i modernization AI architecture and pinpoint which applications would most benefit from RPG modernization.
- Pilot & Deployment – From private beta to production readiness, we provide hands-on deployment, integration into your existing IDEs and CI/CD pipelines, and enablement for your teams.
- Governance & Best Practices — Ensuring IP safety, code quality, and compliance remains core to our approach.
- ROI Realization – With context-aware code explanation and upcoming transformation features, you can expect faster project cycles, fewer errors, and stronger developer onboarding.
Take the Next Step Today
Ready to transform your IBM i modernization landscape with AI? Join the waitlist for IBM watsonx Code Assistant for i, and partner with Prolifics to unlock next-gen developer productivity and modernization speed safely and strategically.
Media Contact: Chithra Sivaramakrishnan | +1(646) 362-3877 | chithra.sivaramakrishnan@prolifics.com
