AI startup Replit launches feature to vibe code mobile apps

Replit, the innovative AI coding startup, has launched a groundbreaking feature that enables users to design and publish mobile applications for Apple devices by simply using natural language prompts. This new capability, introduced on Thursday, is part of what the company calls 'vibe-coding' and promises to transform the app development landscape. With the Mobile Apps on Replit feature, entrepreneurs and creators can turn their ideas into functional applications in mere minutes and have them ready for submission to the App Store within days. This significant advancement not only streamlines the development process but also integrates with Stripe, providing users with an avenue to monetize their creations. This development marks a notable progression in the realm of AI-powered coding, offering an accessible solution that outpaces offerings from tech giants like OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google. For instance, a stock trader can instruct the system to "create an app that tracks the top 10 public companies by market cap," and Replit will generate a complete mobile app featuring a working interface, allowing users to preview and test their product. Vibe-coding has emerged as a leading trend within the generative AI sector, gaining traction as we move into 2026. This momentum is partly fueled by Claude Code, a product from Anthropic that has gained significant popularity in technology circles. In December, Anthropic revealed that Claude Code had achieved $1 billion in annual revenue within just six months. Replit's valuation soared to approximately $3 billion following a recent funding round in September. Cursor's parent company, Anysphere, emerged as a key player in the field, raising $2.3 billion with a whopping $29.3 billion valuation last November. Europe’s frontrunner in this space, Lovable, recently reached a valuation of $6.6 billion. However, the rise of vibe-coding technologies has raised concerns among investors regarding the stability of software stocks, which have already faced challenges in the AI-dominated market. The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF, which includes major firms like Salesforce, Adobe, and ServiceNow, has seen an 11% decline over the past three months as apprehension about AI-based coding tools grows. Before users can publish their Replit-created apps, they must navigate Apple’s rigorous review process, known for its strict App Store guidelines and user data agreements. Apple claims that 90% of submissions are reviewed in under 24 hours. Despite its promise, vibe-coded software has faced scrutiny for security vulnerabilities. A recent investigation by cybersecurity startup Tenzai revealed that many AI coding agents, including Replit and Claude Code, often produce applications with critical security flaws, such as inadequate protection against cyberattacks and password brute force attempts. For those curious about the potential of Replit, the TechCheck team has vibe-coded and published apps such as Market Bling, which tracks leading companies by market capitalization, and Pattern Haven, a community platform for sewing enthusiasts.