Replit launches AI mobile app builder as valuation reportedly nears $9 billion

AI coding startup Replit has introduced its groundbreaking AI mobile app builder, a feature that lets users build and publish mobile apps using only natural language prompts, just as the company is reportedly nearing a funding round that would triple its valuation. As reported by CNBC, the startup is close to securing capital at a valuation of $9 billion (Dhs 33 billion).

The new tool, called 'Mobile Apps on Replit', aims to lower the barrier for entrepreneurs and creators who want to launch apps on Apple's App Store without writing complex code. This development comes amid a surge in 'vibe coding' tools—platforms that allow users to build software through conversation rather than traditional programming.

If the reported valuation holds, Replit would cement its status as a major player in the generative AI landscape, competing directly with heavyweights like OpenAI and specialised coding assistants like Cursor.

Key takeaways

• Replit is reportedly raising funds at a $9 billion (Dhs 33 billion) valuation.
• The new feature allows users to build and publish iOS apps using natural language.
• Integration with Stripe enables immediate monetization for creators.
• The company faces competition from Anysphere (Cursor) and Lovable.
• Security concerns remain a hurdle for AI-generated code.

Exploring Replit's New AI Mobile App Building Feature

Replit's latest offering for AI mobile app development allows users to describe an app idea to an AI agent, which then generates the code, interface, and functionality. The system is designed to handle the entire process from creation to deployment.

According to the company, users can preview and test their apps immediately. Crucially for small businesses, the tool integrates with Stripe, meaning creators can monetise their apps from day one. This could be particularly relevant for the UAE's growing ecosystem of solopreneurs looking for SME growth opportunities without huge technical overheads.

However, the 'vibe coding' approach isn't without friction. Users must still navigate Apple's strict App Store review process. While Replit simplifies the build, Apple's guidelines on design, privacy, and functionality still apply.

Replit Valuation Nears $9 Billion Amidst AI App Builder Success

The reported $9 billion valuation represents a significant leap for Replit, which was valued at $3 billion (Dhs 11 billion) in a fundraising round just last September. This rapid appreciation reflects intense investor appetite for AI coding tools.

The market is becoming crowded. Anysphere, the company behind the popular Cursor editor, raised $2.3 billion in November at a massive $29.3 billion valuation. Meanwhile, European competitor Lovable was recently valued at $6.6 billion. Replit's move to focus specifically on mobile app creation—a segment often more complex to automate than web apps—appears to be its strategy to differentiate itself in this high-stakes race.

Security concerns

While the speed of development is impressive, security remains a valid concern for businesses considering these tools. A recent study by cybersecurity startup Tenzai found that popular AI coding agents, including Replit and Anthropic's Claude Code, frequently ship apps with critical vulnerabilities.

The study noted issues such as failure to prevent brute force attacks. As we've seen with other rapid tech advancements, like Google's personal intelligence features, convenience often precedes robust security protocols. Users building commercial apps will need to be vigilant about auditing the AI-generated code before releasing it to the public.

Valuation comparison

Here is how Replit's reported growth stacks up against its primary competitors in the AI coding space:

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