AI startup Replit launches feature to vibe code mobile apps (www.cnbc.com)

AI startup Replit has launched a groundbreaking feature that enables users to create and publish mobile apps for Apple devices using just natural language prompts, significantly streamlining the app development process. This new functionality, branded as Mobile Apps on Replit, allows users to transition from concept to market-ready applications in a matter of days. By integrating payment processing through Stripe, Replit empowers creators and small businesses to monetize their apps directly within the platform. This development marks a notable step in the vibe-coding trend, which has gained traction thanks to the popularization of AI coding tools like Anthropic's Claude Code. The significance of this feature extends to potential disruptions in the software industry, as vibe-coding could diminish the competitive advantages held by established software companies. Leading to an influx of new app developers, this trend drives concerns about app security, particularly since a recent study revealed that AI-generated apps frequently exhibit critical vulnerabilities. Additionally, as demand for vibe-coding products rises, traditional software companies may face further financial pressures, evidenced by declines in stock values for major tech firms. While users can quickly build apps, they must still navigate Apple's stringent App Store review process, ensuring compliance with the platform's rigorous guidelines.