Continuous integration plays a pivotal role in software development by streamlining the process of integrating and testing code changes. By enabling frequent commits to a shared repository, developers can identify and address bugs or conflicts promptly. This practice fosters collaboration and enhances code quality, reducing the time spent on troubleshooting. Automated testing ensures that new changes do not compromise existing functionality, contributing to a more stable codebase. Ultimately, continuous integration accelerates the development cycle, allowing teams to deliver features and updates faster while maintaining high standards of quality.