Continuous integration is a software development practice where developers frequently merge their code changes into a shared repository. Each integration is automatically tested to detect errors quickly, ensuring that new code works well with existing code. This process helps maintain a stable codebase and reduces integration problems later in the development cycle. By using automated testing and build tools, teams can identify issues early, making it easier to fix bugs and improve software quality. Continuous integration encourages collaboration among team members, as everyone works with the latest version of the code, leading to faster development and more reliable software releases.