How to Create a Simple App Using AI Tools in Just 2 Hours

As indie hackers and solo founders, we often find ourselves juggling multiple tasks, from ideation to execution. The thought of building an app can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not a seasoned developer. But what if I told you that you could create a simple app in just 2 hours using AI tools? In 2026, thanks to advancements in AI coding tools, this is not just a pipe dream—it's entirely possible.

Prerequisites: What You Need Before You Start

Before diving in, let’s make sure you have everything ready:

• A computer: Any device capable of running a web browser will work.
• An internet connection: You'll need this to access the AI tools.
• Basic idea: Have a simple app concept in mind (e.g., a to-do list, a weather app, etc.).
• Accounts for AI tools: Set up accounts with the tools we’ll be using.

Step 1: Choose Your AI Tools

Here’s a list of AI coding tools that will help you build your app quickly:

| Tool Name | What It Does | Pricing | Best For | Limitations | Our Take | |----------------|--------------------------------------------|-------------------------------|-------------------------------|----------------------------------------------|--------------------------------| | Bubble | No-code platform for web apps | Free tier + $29/mo pro | Prototyping | Limited customization for complex apps | We use this for rapid prototyping. | | Adalo | No-code app builder for mobile apps | Free tier + $50/mo pro | Building mobile apps | Performance issues with complex logic | We don’t use it due to pricing. | | Zapier | Automation tool to connect apps | Free tier + $19.99/mo pro | Workflow automation | Limited to app integrations it supports | Great for automating repetitive tasks. | | OpenAI Codex| AI-powered code generation | Starts at $20/month | Writing code snippets | Might generate inefficient code | We use it for quick code fixes. | | Figma | Design tool for UI/UX | Free tier + $15/mo pro | Designing app interfaces | Can be overwhelming for beginners | Essential for UI design. | | Thunkable | Build native mobile apps without coding | Free tier + $50/mo pro | Prototyping mobile apps | Limited capabilities for advanced features | We don’t use it due to limitations. | | AppGyver | No-code platform for web and mobile apps | Free forever | Rapid prototyping | Complex logic can be cumbersome | Perfect for quick builds. | | Glitch | Collaborative coding environment | Free | Quick web app prototypes | Limited scalability for production apps | Great for collaborative projects. | | Voiceflow | Create voice apps easily | Free tier + $15/mo pro | Voice app development | Limited to voice interfaces | We don't use it unless needed. | | Retool | Build internal tools quickly | Free tier + $10/user/mo | Internal dashboard creation | Not for public-facing apps | We use this for internal tools. | | Webflow | Visual web development tool | Free tier + $16/mo pro | Building responsive websites | Learning curve for complete beginners | Great for landing pages. | | Glitch | Collaborative coding platform | Free | Quick web applications | Limited resources for large projects | Perfect for small prototypes. |

What We Actually Use

In our experience, we typically rely on Bubble for web apps and OpenAI Codex for coding assistance.

Step 2: Build Your App in 2 Hours

Hour 1: Designing the Interface

1. Open Figma and create a new project.
2. Sketch your app layout: Focus on the main screens (e.g., home screen, settings).
3. Export components: Save your designs for use in your app builder.

Hour 2: Developing the App

1. Open Bubble: Create a new project.
2. Upload your Figma designs: Use the design elements you exported.
3. Set up workflows: Define actions for buttons and user inputs.
4. Test your app: Use Bubble's preview feature to check functionality.

Troubleshooting: What Could Go Wrong

While building your app, you might encounter some roadblocks:

• Design elements not aligning: Make sure your exported elements are sized correctly in Bubble.
• Workflows not triggering: Double-check your workflow conditions and actions.
• Performance issues: Simplify your app logic if it's running slowly.

What's Next: Progressing Beyond the Basics

Once your simple app is up and running, consider these next steps:

• User feedback: Share your app with friends or potential users for insights.
• Iterate based on feedback: Make improvements based on what users say.
• Explore monetization options: Consider how to turn your app into a revenue-generating product.

Conclusion: Start Here

Creating a simple app in just 2 hours is entirely feasible with the right AI tools. Start by selecting a tool like Bubble for app building, complement it with Figma for design, and leverage OpenAI Codex for coding assistance.

If you haven't yet, give it a shot! You might just find that building your app is easier than you thought.