Why is it necessary to compile code?

Code is compiled to convert high-level source code (e.g., Dart in Flutter) into low-level machine code that a computer's processor can directly execute.

Main reasons:

• Performance: Machine code executes significantly faster than interpreted code.
• Distribution: An executable file is created, which can run on the target platform without the need for source code or an interpreter.
• Obfuscation: Compiled code is harder to read and modify, providing some level of intellectual property protection.
• Optimization: The compiler can perform optimizations to improve the efficiency and size of the final code.

Flutter uses native code compilation (ahead-of-time, AOT) for release builds on mobile devices and desktops, ensuring high performance. For debugging, JIT compilation (just-in-time) or interpretation is used for quick iterative development and hot reload.