Is it possible to build a Headspace app clone using the AI coder Replit and simple prompts?

It's an ambitious goal, but we decided to put it to the test.

Throughout this experiment, we'll share valuable tips for getting the most out of Replit Agent and how to build applications similar to Headspace.

In this blog post, we'll walk you through the process of creating a meditation app using Replit's AI-powered tools.

We'll cover everything from initial design to testing and debugging, and even attempt to integrate Google authentication.

Let's dive into the world of no-code app development and see how far we can push the boundaries of AI-assisted app creation.

Getting Started with Replit AI App Builder

The first step in our journey is to visit Replit.com. Before we start coding, it's crucial to have a design reference for our Headspace clone. We found a template for a meditation app on Figma, which we'll use as a visual guide for our project.

To get started:

1. Go to Replit and click on "Attach File"
2. Upload your design reference images
3. Create a product requirements document (PRD) using AI tools like Google's Gemini or ChatGPT
4. Type out your PRD in Replit (don't copy-paste, as this may cause issues)

Pro tip: When creating your PRD, be specific about your app's purpose. In our case, we specified that we wanted a meditation app tailored for professionals.

Learn more about creating a PRD here:

Building the Headspace App Clone

Step 1: Initial Prototype Creation

Once you've provided Replit with your PRD, it will analyze the information and ask if you want to build the initial prototype. You'll also have the option to include additional features like a database. For our Headspace clone, we opted for a database but skipped advanced analytics, offline mode, and customizable meditation program creation.

Step 2: Testing the Prototype

After Replit builds the initial prototype, it's crucial to test what has been created. Here's what we found:

• The welcome screen didn't match our design reference
• Some UI elements were missing or incorrectly styled
• Functionality for login and account creation was incomplete

Step 3: Implementing Database Functionality

To enable user accounts and data storage, we needed to add a database. Replit prompted us to do this, and we followed its instructions to implement the database functionality.

Step 4: Testing Login and Account Creation

With the database in place, we tested the login and account creation process. We encountered several issues:

• Logic errors prevented saving user preferences
• The onboarding process was incomplete
• Some UI elements were still not functioning correctly

Testing and Debugging the Meditation App Clone

Throughout the development process, we continuously tested and debugged our Headspace clone. Here are some key areas we focused on:

Identifying Missing Elements and Functionality

• Profile page was initially missing
• Notification alerts weren't functional
• Meditation playback feature was missing

Resolving Logical Errors and Inconsistencies

We encountered numerous logical errors that required prompting Replit to fix. These included issues with saving user preferences and problems with the onboarding flow.

Improving User Experience and Interface Design

We noticed several UI/UX issues, such as buttons blending into the background. We had to prompt Replit multiple times to improve the components and ensure consistency across the entire application.

Adding Advanced Features: Google Authentication Integration

As a final challenge, we attempted to integrate Google authentication into our Headspace clone. This process highlighted some limitations of AI app builders:

• Replit provided instructions for setting up Google authentication, but they were inconsistent (sometimes suggesting Firebase, other times the Google Developer Console)
• Following the instructions without technical knowledge led to errors and non-functional authentication
• Successfully implementing Google authentication required additional prompting and debugging

Comparing Replit to Other No-Code Tools

After our experiment with Replit's AI app builder, it's clear that while these tools have potential, they also have limitations:

• Complex applications like Headspace are challenging to replicate fully using AI app builders
• Replit performs well for simpler use cases and prototypes
• Other no-code tools like Lovable and Bubble may offer different features and capabilities

While AI app builders are improving, they still require users to have some technical knowledge and product development expertise to create fully functional applications.

Lessons Learned from Building a Headspace Clone

Our experiment with Replit's AI app builder taught us several valuable lessons:

1. Having a clear design reference and product requirements document is crucial
2. Continuous testing and debugging are essential throughout the development process
3. AI app builders can create basic prototypes quickly, but complex features require more effort
4. Technical knowledge is still necessary to resolve issues and implement advanced features
5. Patience and persistence are key when working with AI-powered development tools

While we weren't able to create a perfect Headspace clone, this experiment showcased both the potential and current limitations of AI app builders like Replit.

Want to learn more about AI app builders? Check out this comparison between Tempo and Lovable.​

If you're interested in learning more about no-code development and AI-powered tools, consider signing up for No Code MBA. Our platform offers in-depth, high-quality courses on no-code and AI taught by industry experts, helping you stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of app development.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can Replit's AI app builder create a fully functional Headspace clone?

While Replit's AI app builder can create a basic prototype, it currently falls short of producing a fully functional Headspace clone. Complex features and integrations still require significant manual intervention and technical knowledge.

What are the main challenges in using AI app builders for complex applications?

The main challenges include resolving logical errors, implementing advanced features, ensuring consistency in UI/UX design, and integrating third-party services like Google authentication.

How does Replit compare to other no-code tools like Bubble or Webflow?

Replit's AI app builder is more suited for quick prototypes and simpler applications. Tools like Bubble or Webflow offer more robust features for building complex applications but may require a steeper learning curve.

Is technical knowledge necessary when using AI app builders?

While AI app builders aim to reduce the need for coding, some technical knowledge is still beneficial. Understanding basic programming concepts, database structures, and API integrations can help users troubleshoot issues and implement more advanced features.

What types of applications are best suited for Replit's AI app builder?

Replit's AI app builder works well for creating simple tools, games, and basic prototypes. It's particularly useful for quickly testing ideas and concepts before moving on to more robust development platforms. If you're looking to build more complex AI applications, you might need to explore other options or combine multiple tools.