Kotlin is a cross-platform, statically typed, general-purpose high-level programming language featuring type inference. It was designed to be fully interoperable with Java, and its standard library for the Java virtual machine (JVM) relies on the Java Class Library.
The language offers a more concise syntax than Java while incorporating null-safety features intended to reduce common runtime errors. While it primarily targets the JVM, Kotlin can also be compiled into JavaScript or native code using LLVM. Development costs for the language are borne by JetBrains, and the Kotlin Foundation is responsible for protecting its trademark.