Just six months ago, the idea of building an iOS app seemed out of reach. I had limited background in coding and no idea where to start for a iOS app. The tutorials on youtube and resources online seemed incredibly limited too, which was kind of demotivating.

But then I discovered and harnessed the power of AI for learning and developing. With the right tools and approach, I made it happen—and faster than I thought possible.

Now, I built a fully functioning iOS app with AI functionalities, almost entirely with...AI

Let's get into it.

Here’s the tech stack I used:

• CursorAI
• ClaudeAI
• Perplexity
• ChatGPT
• v0 (by Vercel)

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how I turned an idea into a fully functioning app:

1. Perplexity: Laying the foundation

When I have an idea, I start with Perplexity to shape it. I ask questions like:

• “What features would make this app valuable?”
• “How can I differentiate it from existing apps?”
• “What APIs or tools could support the functionality I want?”

It provides detailed suggestions, competitor analysis, and even API recommendations. This step saves hours of research and ensures I start on the right track.

Tip: Be as specific as possible when asking for feedback or suggestions. The more context you provide, the better the results.

2. ChatGPT: Planning the roadmap

Next, I use ChatGPT to develop a detailed plan. I take the insights from Perplexity and ask ChatGPT for:

• A structured project plan
• App architecture (using SwiftUI in my case)

This step is critical. A clear roadmap makes the development process much smoother. I refine the plan by asking follow-up questions until I have a complete and actionable guide.

3. v0 by Vercel: Designing the interface

I turn to v0 for app designs. After finding design inspiration on platforms like Dribbble, I input the ideas into v0 and let it generate the screens.

Tip: Ask v0 to present designs in a mobile frame (e.g., iPhone) for better context. Even if the output is in JavaScript, I use it purely for visual reference.

4. ClaudeAI: Generating SwiftUI code

Using the designs from v0, I take screenshots and share them with ClaudeAI. I ask it to generate SwiftUI code based on the designs.

This provides me with functional screen layouts that are easy to integrate. Adjustments might be needed, but it’s far more efficient than starting from scratch.

5. CursorAI: Building the app

This is where all the pieces come together.

• I open Xcode and start a new project.
• I load the project folder into CursorAI.
• I create two key documents:
  • project-structure.md with the roadmap from ChatGPT.
  • project-documentation.md for API details and other references.

CursorAI acts as a guide and assistant. I:

• Use it to integrate the Claude-generated code.
• Ask it to troubleshoot and debug as needed.
• Build features step by step by providing specific instructions.

Important: CursorAI works best with clear and direct input. Keep your files organized and refer to them explicitly when asking for changes.

Next Steps

Continue building, iterating, and learning along the way. Once you get the process going and have a clear goal in mind, development becomes way smoother. Also, since you know what you want to build, you will learn much faster.

Key Takeaways

• Start with a solid plan. The more you invest in planning, the smoother development will be.
• Use the tools collaboratively. Each tool has strengths—use them to complement each other.
• Be precise in your instructions. The tools are powerful but only as effective as the input they receive.

With this approach, you don’t need to be a developer to bring an app idea to life. The tools handle the heavy lifting—you just need to guide them.

If you’re considering building an app with AI or have questions about the process, feel free to ask. I’m happy to share more.