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Since its inception in February of 2025, searches for “vibe coding” have skyrocketed by a whopping 6,700%. Based on artificial intelligence, vibe coding is a new model of programming that allows users to create apps without writing a single line of code. On the contrary, users can develop simple solutions using natural language. One of the most disruptive emerging web development trends, this new kind of programming has already taken several industries by storm. But what is vibe coding, and is it as transformative as we think? In this article, we’ll explore the vibe coding explanation, discuss its advantages and limitations, as well as take a look at some use cases.
Before we explore the topic further, let’s answer the question, ”What is vibe coding?” Vibe coding is a colloquial term for AI-assisted coding coined by one of the founders of OpenAI, Andrej Karpathy. While traditional coding requires extensive knowledge and in-depth understanding of at least one programming language, vibe coding tools bridge that gap. Using plain language, users can request a complete app or just a code snippet that the GenAI platform will then produce.
Also known as AI coding assistants, vibe coding tools output AI-generated code, thus helping you develop software of your choice. Even if you know nothing about coding, you can engineer a prompt that highlights the functionality you’re seeking to integrate or a problem you’re trying to solve. Based on that, AI models can then write code or ask follow-up questions if something is not yet clear.
The vibe coding industry is extremely new but has already produced specialized software solutions for various needs. For example, Lovable and Replit are ideal for beginners, offering end-to-end support in web and mobile app development. From generating test code and fixing bugs to one-click deployment and version control, these types of AI tools are great for hobby projects as well as experimentation. Experts prefer GitHub Copilot, Cursor, and Windsurf, advanced platforms with code editing and refactoring features, perfectly suited for seasoned software developers.
According to the originator of the term himself, the paradigm shift that vibe coding brought lies in the way users approach software development. In traditional manual coding, developers have to analyze code versions and identify improvements within the lines. Even in low-code development, users have to perform manual tasks to create a program. In contrast, vibe coding allows people to gauge code’s functionality based on how the software runs. However, experts urge users to continue applying traditional coding practices to ensure a high quality of programs.
There are also some concerns about the future of programming that pose a threat to our ability to retain control over coding. On one hand, AI models limit our control over the code base, but at the same time, they enable the creation of endlessly complex programming to the point where it can exceed human comprehension.
Vibe coding opens the doors to countless opportunities, especially for those who aren’t well-versed in programming languages. Now, AI-generated code can foster an environment where anyone can realize their ideas without investing in expensive software engineers or learning coding themselves. However, this approach is relatively new and is likely to improve and mature over the course of the next few years.
First of all, vibe coding utilizes large language models that fail to disclose their thought process behind the code created. As a result, users may not be able to fully understand how the system makes decisions. Secondly, using vibe coding without proper technical skills makes debugging impossible since this step requires a profound understanding of the programming language, app logic, and debugging techniques.
Additionally, without proper comprehension of coding, users are constrained to approaches chosen by AI systems, which can harm long-term maintainability and flexibility. Though they admittedly cut software development speed and offer convenience, vibe coding tools might put a non-tech user in danger of creating simplified or limited solutions.
Despite its novelty, vibe coding is already reshaping the industry, including developers’ roles, startup growth, and skill training. Using coding assistants, software engineers can now focus on creating architectures, innovating functionality, and improving user experience. Instead of writing every single line of code manually, they can use natural language and apply their technical skills to review AI-generated code.
Software development education has also been impacted by AI-assisted coding. Although teaching coding fundamentals remains crucial, the training focus has shifted to how to work with AI models. From crafting appropriate prompts and using digital assistants to solve different problems to reviewing AI-generated code and integrating it into larger projects, the curriculum incorporates the use of AI coding.
Lastly, vibe coding is a game-changer for startups that have been halted by the monopolized technology sector. Much like with any disruptive technological advancement, startups are actually in an advantageous position compared to larger companies. While big corporations have to carefully assess the new technology, rearrange their practices and protocols, and take risks, new companies have nothing to lose. They can build products at a higher speed, come up with AI-powered solutions, and drive innovation without worrying about losing market share or revenue.
What are the main benefits of using vibe coding in software development? In this section, let’s take a look at the potential advantages of using AI coding assistants and the current shortcomings of vibe coding.
AI platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, and specialized ones like Replit and Windsurf allow companies to swiftly create digital products. Let’s take a look at the vibe coding benefits that businesses can yield.
Finding the right talent for a project is taxing, even with the growing trend of remote work. Among the biggest vibe coding benefits is the ability to jumpstart a new project without hiring developers. With just a few sentences, anyone can swiftly generate a prototype or basic app to test their idea before investing in a costly technical workforce. Even though AI coding still demands technical expertise to finalize, it’s perfect for MVP software development.
One of the most industry-disrupting benefits of vibe coding is the ability to rapidly prototype and create early app versions. Traditionally, this stage took weeks of work and required seasoned technical experts to execute. With vibe coding, these repetitive tasks can be outsourced to an AI model, allowing programmers to focus on the bigger picture. Additionally, this instant generation of MVPs makes it possible to quickly test ideas and experiments without exceeding budgets and timelines.
Finally, generative AI product development is a way to cut the development cycle and dedicate resources to innovation. Vibe coding is not simply a method of task automation but a complete shift in the paradigm. To maximize the output from AI-powered coding, it’s imperative to think outside the box and “embrace exponentials,” as Andrej Karpathy so eloquently put it.
Not to downplay the disruptive nature of artificial intelligence, vibe coding is not without its limitations. Among the most alarming concerns are security risks, code quality, and potential overreliance on AI.
Unfortunately, data protection remains the biggest point of contention in the AI zeitgeist. A lot needs to be done to pacify the safety concerns around vibe coding, meaning current businesses must be extra careful when relying on AI systems. Unlike low-code development tools that provide easy-to-use drag-and-drop interfaces, vibe coding solutions literally write code for you.
Without double-checking AI-generated code, companies are at risk of exposing themselves to vulnerabilities and data breaches. This can occur because AI assistants can’t distinguish between secure and insecure patterns, which can pose threats to the safety of your data.
Another important drawback of vibe coding—particularly when applied across various projects in mobile and web development or broader AI development—is the concern over code quality. While machine-generated code may seem functional at first glance, it often contains hidden issues that non-technical users might easily overlook.
Сustomization also makes AI tools insufficient for complex scenarios like refactoring and creating data pipelines. Whether it’s inefficient, cumbersome, or causes performance issues, the AI-generated solution might experience serious issues down the line.
Additionally, the more we begin to use AI and let go of control, the more reliant we will eventually become. As increasingly more people start using AI for code writing, they will fail to develop strong technical skills themselves. As a result, we’ll end up in a situation where most users don’t understand the code, which can lead to more issues in the long run.
Even though vibe coding capabilities are quite new, industry experts have already found numerous ways to adopt them in their work. In this part, we’ll explore a few vibe coding use cases and sectors that benefit from this new paradigm.
First, let’s take a look at some of the most popular and helpful vibe coding use cases.
As already discussed, vibe coding is the holy grail for prototyping and MVP development, allowing companies to spontaneously build things. The vibe coding business opportunities are truly endless, empowering startups and larger organizations to experiment and innovate completely risk-free. Small, incomplex applications can also be swiftly put together. Using AI-powered assistants, companies and individuals can develop basic functionality that automates tasks, consolidates databases, and personalizes existing solutions.
Through vibe coding, programming students can ease into technical complexity and learn on the go. Even experienced software engineers can master another language and improve their limitations by using AI systems. This learning by exploration technique enables users to make a change and immediately see the results of working code, helping them develop a deeper understanding of the technology.
However, it’s important to note that AI can be used for learning by those who are willing to do so. If a user simply approves an AI-generated script without first trying to investigate it, they will not enhance their knowledge. Vibe coding can be a great self-learning tool when utilized properly, otherwise, it will only cause more issues down the line.
Finally, developers can now automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks, including adding logging, maintaining documentation, and converting data formats. Software developers spend a lot of time on these mundane chores that not only eat away their time but also reduce motivation.
For agencies and consultancies, vibe coding can streamline custom software development projects, especially when clients need transparency and iteration. Real-time collaboration, live demos, and integrated deployment make it easy to show progress, gather feedback, and make changes on the fly.
Forward-thinking companies can use vibe coding to run internal hackathons and innovation challenges. It provides the tools employees need to form teams, experiment with ideas, and build working prototypes—fostering a culture of innovation and uncovering new business solutions from within.
Let’s discuss some vibe coding real-world examples across industries and how they are already changing the fabric of these sectors. For instance, the gaming industry has been the trailblazer of technological advancements since the 1990s, continuing this trend to this day. Startups are creating simple games with little to no manual coding using available AI systems. Even with a free-tier ChatGPT, you can generate basic games, explore various ideas and scenarios, and immediately test the results.
Vibe coding is also widely used in the business environment to automate workflows and streamline internal processes. In the future, business employees will be able to instantly customize their toolkits, generate reports and databases, visualize their findings, and optimize their performances, with minimal input from the IT department. Similarly, education technology can leverage vibe coding to personalize their studies, create interactive quizzes, and learn how to code.
AI assistants can also help companies stay in alignment with their environmental and sustainability goals. For instance, they can develop software that tracks their energy consumption and carbon footprint and provides solutions that enhance their efficiency.
So, how can AI assist coders in a meaningful way? First of all, make sure you’re using vibe coding in the most efficient way. This includes idea validation, prototyping, and task automation. If you have a compelling idea, write a quick prompt and see what happens. Using vibe coding as an assistant can also be a great support in fixing simple bugs and glitches and implementing code snippets into a large database of scripts.
However, using vibe coding for complex algorithms and nuanced programming is not a good idea. The AI-generated code imitates human-written code from the training data, making it unoriginal by definition. In other words, AI coding is not likely to develop something that has never been done before. Especially if you’re working on a highly specialized program that requires unique code blocks, large language models aren’t likely to produce desired results. Finally, you can’t share proprietary information with a public AI platform, as this might create safety issues.
Despite its current limitations, vibe coding is clearly the future of software development, especially when used in conjunction with traditional engineering practices. If you would like to develop a custom solution securely, refer to developers you can trust.
NIX is a software development company with years of experience across domains and technologies. We combine our decades-long expertise with the latest innovations to build tailored applications quickly, safely, and error-free. Get in touch with our top experts to discuss your project idea and create a solution that helps you achieve your goals.
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