Turn Prompts into Profit: Replit Launches Vibe-Coding for Mobile Apps
Replit has launched a feature to build and monetize mobile apps via prompts. Discover how vibe-coding is challenging software giants and what it means for the App Store.
The gap between a fleeting idea and a functional, monetizable product just closed. AI coding pioneer Replit just unveiled a feature allowing users to build, publish, and monetize mobile apps for Apple devices using nothing but natural language prompts. Announced on January 15, 2026, this move marks a significant leap in the evolution of 'vibe-coding'.
Key Features of Replit Mobile Apps Vibe-Coding
The 'Mobile Apps on Replit' feature is designed for creators and small business owners who lack deep technical expertise. The workflow is strikingly simple: a user describes their app idea—such as a tracker for the top 10 public companies by market cap—and Replit generates a functioning mobile interface in minutes. By integrating with Stripe, Replit isn't just offering a playground for experiments but a legitimate path to revenue. This specific use-case goes a step further than the broader AI offerings from OpenAI or Google, focusing directly on the mobile-first economy.
Vibe-Coding Momentum and the Threat to Software Giants
The momentum behind vibe-coding is reflected in staggering financial figures. Anthropic's Claude Code reportedly reached $1 billion in annualized revenue within just six months. Replit itself holds a valuation of $3 billion, while competitor Anysphere (the creator of Cursor) was valued at $29.3 billion last November. This rapid rise is putting pressure on established software players like Salesforce and Adobe. The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF has dropped 11% over the last three months as investors fear AI agents might erode traditional software moats.
Security Risks and Strict Guidelines
It's not all smooth sailing. A study by cybersecurity firm Tenzai warns that AI-generated apps often ship with critical vulnerabilities, including weak resistance to password brute force attacks. Furthermore, creators must still navigate Apple's notoriously strict App Store review process. While Apple claims 90% of apps are reviewed within 24 hours, the compliance burden for novice 'vibe-coders' remains a potential hurdle.
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