AI startup Replit has announced the launch of its new 'Mobile Apps' feature, leveraging 'vibe coding' to transform how individuals develop applications for iOS and Android platforms. 'Vibe coding,' a term gaining traction in the AI community, refers to the process of instructing AI agents to generate code based on natural language prompts, effectively allowing users to describe their app ideas in plain English rather than writing traditional code. This feature empowers creators to build functional mobile applications rapidly, with the potential to turn concepts into working prototypes within minutes. The platform's new capability extends to publishing these AI-generated apps directly to app stores, although an Apple Developer account is required, and applications must undergo Apple's stringent review process. Replit has also integrated Stripe for seamless monetization options within the created applications. This move positions Replit at the forefront of accessible AI development, particularly for small business owners and creators who may lack traditional programming expertise, enabling them to bypass complex coding entirely. Simultaneously with this product launch, Replit is reportedly in advanced discussions to secure a new funding round that could push its valuation to approximately $9 billion. This marks a significant increase from its previous valuation of $3 billion in September 2025 (or 2024 in some reports). While the promise of rapid app development is significant, some reports highlight potential challenges, including navigating Apple's app store guidelines and addressing security vulnerabilities that have been identified in AI-generated code. For instance, a study by Tenzai found vulnerabilities in apps created using various AI coding agents, including Replit. Experts suggest a hybrid approach, using vibe coding for prototyping and concept validation, followed by professional development teams for production-ready applications.