Use free AI tools to turn any website into an app

Turning a regular website into an app sounds like something reserved for developers, but free AI tools now make it accessible for anyone curious about creating.

With simple drag-and-drop platforms, spreadsheets, and templates, people can quickly design functional apps. No need for coding knowledge, just creativity and the right resources.

This is a guide by Insiderbits designed to help you build and publish easily on all platforms. Keep reading and discover the best strategies to start building today!

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Zero-code or low-code: how it works for beginners

Zero-code and low-code platforms are changing how people think about creating apps. Instead of complex coding, they focus on intuitive tools that allow anyone to bring ideas to life.

These platforms offer ready-made components, templates, and visual editors. With them, even someone new can connect data, adjust layouts, and transform a website into an app.

Beginners usually start small, maybe building a portfolio, a product catalog, or a directory. The important part is realizing that technical skills aren’t required to get started.

What “drag and drop” really means

Drag and drop isn’t complicated. It simply means moving prebuilt elements like text boxes, images, or buttons into place, shaping your app the way you imagine.

By rearranging blocks, adding colors, and linking functions, users can design screens that look professional. It’s about freedom to arrange elements without worrying about technical details.

From spreadsheets to functional apps

Most people already use spreadsheets for organizing tasks or managing contacts. These platforms let you connect that same data directly, turning rows into interactive app features.

Imagine linking your spreadsheet of inventory with an interface that customers can browse. Suddenly, the same information you manage daily is powering a fully functional app.

Why anyone can build without coding

App creation feels intimidating when you think about lines of code, but these tools remove that barrier. They focus on simplicity, making development approachable for anyone.

Even without technical knowledge, users can transform ideas into working solutions. By connecting data sources and adjusting design, anyone can bring a website into an app quickly.

How to turn website into an app for free

Creating an app no longer demands advanced coding. Free AI-powered platforms make development accessible, giving anyone the chance to build functional mobile applications.

These tools simplify workflows, helping you organize projects, launch online stores, or manage data. With intuitive interfaces, turning ideas into practical digital solutions becomes faster.

By using no-code platforms, it’s now possible to transform a simple website into an app, reaching wider audiences across devices while keeping costs completely under control.

Choosing the right platform for your project

Each platform comes with its own strengths. Some focus on simplicity with templates, while others offer more flexibility for users who want extra customization options.

Before starting, think about your goal. A portfolio, an e-commerce store, or a delivery app may require different resources, so the platform choice really matters.

Connecting your data in simple steps

Most platforms allow easy integration with everyday tools. Google Sheets, Airtable, or Excel can serve as reliable sources to feed your app with real information.

You simply connect your chosen data source, and the platform generates fields, lists, and buttons. It feels like linking puzzle pieces that suddenly fit perfectly together.

Customizing design without technical skills

Visual editors allow anyone to arrange layouts, select colors, and add branding. Adjusting fonts and buttons becomes as simple as formatting a presentation slide.

This is where creativity meets accessibility. By choosing colors, images, and fonts that represent your idea, you can turn your personal vision or website into an app.

Generating your app with one click

Once your data and design are ready, platforms let you generate a functioning app automatically. The process is fast, without complicated steps or hidden requirements.

With a single click, the platform compiles everything into a functional app. From there, you can share it online or prepare it for mobile publishing.

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Glide vs. Softr vs. AppGyver: which is better for you?

Comparing app-building platforms can feel tricky at first, especially with so many names circulating. Glide, Softr, and AppGyver stand out for their practicality and wide range of uses.

Each platform has its own personality. Some focus on making things easy for beginners, while others give advanced options for bigger projects. Choosing depends on your goal.

Glide Apps

Glide makes building apps feel approachable with its clean interface and drag-and-drop style. It lets you quickly turn a website into an app even without coding skills.

The platform works with drag-and-drop features that let anyone design layouts, add images, and organize buttons. It feels simple, yet still powerful enough for creating professional projects.

Customization is flexible yet simple. Users adjust colors, icons, and layouts with a few clicks. The result feels professional, while staying easy enough for complete beginners.

Glide Apps’ best features

• Simple data integration: Glide connects directly with spreadsheets and databases, automatically transforming information into functional app features;
• Visual editing tools: drag-and-drop design lets you personalize layouts, buttons, and colors, making it simple to create functional and engaging apps without technical skills;
• Fast publishing options: with just a few clicks, Glide generates fully working applications ready to be shared instantly on mobile devices or the web.

Softr

Softr simplifies app creation by turning Airtable or Google Sheets data into interactive pages. Its intuitive tools let users design functional and visually appealing applications easily.

With Softr, you can quickly transform a website into an app. Templates for marketplaces, directories, and client portals make customization simple while keeping everything professional.

Publishing options are versatile and efficient. Softr apps run well on the web or mobile, supporting personal projects, small businesses, and collaborative teams needing solutions.

Softr’s best features

• Flexible building blocks: Softr offers predesigned components for pages, forms, and lists, allowing anyone to assemble apps quickly with clear and intuitive customization;
• Data-driven functionality: direct integration with Airtable or Google Sheets turns information into fully functional apps, allowing users to build powerful and dynamic tools;
• Effortless publishing: Softr apps can be launched instantly on the web or shared on mobile devices, providing broad accessibility without additional technical requirements.

AppGyver

AppGyver helps users create professional apps without coding by using a clean visual editor, enabling developers to turn a website into an app efficiently.

Its drag-and-drop builder integrates with spreadsheets, databases, and APIs. Users can design dashboards, e-commerce tools, and internal systems while keeping projects highly organized.

Publishing is seamless and flexible. Apps built with AppGyver can run on Android, iOS, or web browsers, allowing broader sharing without extra costs or complexity.

AppGyver’s best features

• Advanced visual builder: it offers a drag-and-drop editor with powerful logic options, making complex app creation possible without coding knowledge;
• Data connections: integrates with APIs, spreadsheets, and databases, enabling you to transform content into dynamic apps while keeping everything easy to manage;
• Cross-platform publishing: apps can be launched on Android, iOS, or web browsers, ensuring projects are accessible everywhere with minimal setup and zero extra costs.

Best use cases: portfolio, e-commerce, directories, and more

Turning creative ideas into functional apps begins with clear goals. People want to showcase portfolios, sell products or organize projects without needing advanced programming know-how.

These platforms simplify development with templates, drag-and-drop tools, and data integration, making it possible to transform an existing website into an app in a practical way.

From e-commerce shops to business directories, these solutions provide accessible options for creating customized applications that are both visually appealing and highly functional.

Turn a personal site into a portfolio app

A portfolio app helps showcase skills and past projects in a more engaging way. Instead of static pages, interactive elements highlight achievements dynamically.

Adding images, links, and descriptions is simple. Anyone can build a professional-looking portfolio app that’s accessible on phones, tablets, or desktops with minimal effort.

Build an e-commerce without developers

Selling online often feels complicated, but no-code platforms simplify the process. They give store templates, payment options, and inventory tools ready to customize.

With these resources, anyone can set up product pages, connect payment gateways, and start selling. It’s a straightforward path to creating a functional online store.

Create community directories and listings

Directories for events, restaurants, or local services are easier to manage through apps. Platforms allow you to collect data and display it clearly.

This approach works for schools, clubs, or neighborhoods. By connecting spreadsheets or forms, it becomes possible to create a practical directory or transform a website into an app.

Internal management apps for small teams

Small teams often need tools for tracking tasks, managing clients, or monitoring inventory. Building apps for these needs saves time and reduces scattered workflows.

Custom fields, lists, and dashboards can be created without coding. These apps centralize processes, making collaboration smoother and keeping everyone updated in real time.

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Tips to publish your app on Android and iOS

Successfully publishing an app is the final reward after building it. With the right approach, sharing your creation across different platforms becomes smooth and manageable.

From quick web releases to full Android and iOS launches, the process is beginner-friendly, whether you’re starting from scratch or turning a website into an app.

Publishing on the web instantly

Web publishing is usually the fastest option. Most platforms generate a shareable link that makes your app accessible to anyone with internet access.

This method is perfect for testing, sharing with friends, or presenting to a small group before committing to mobile app stores and larger audiences.

Steps to launch on Google Play

Publishing on Google Play requires a developer account and a few setup tasks, but the process is straightforward once you know the essentials.

• Create developer account: register on Google Play Console by paying a one-time fee and providing accurate personal or business details for approval;
• Prepare app assets: upload icons, screenshots, and descriptions that represent your app clearly while respecting Play Store design and policy guidelines;
• Upload APK or AAB file: add your compiled app package to the console and configure settings like permissions, categories, and version information before review;
• Submit for review: Google checks compliance with policies and security. Once approved, your app becomes available to millions of users worldwide.

Submitting your app to the App Store

Apple’s App Store requires stricter guidelines, but following them ensures quality and security. This step is essential when transforming a website into an app.

• Enroll in developer program: register for Apple Developer Program with an annual fee, gaining access to tools, certificates, and publishing features;
• Prepare App Store listing: add descriptions, keywords, and images that represent your app while meeting Apple’s strict design and policy requirements;
• Upload using Xcode or Transporter: submit your app package with the correct certificates and provisioning profiles required for distribution on Apple devices;
• Submit for review: Apple carefully checks functionality and compliance. Once approved, your app is published and becomes available on iOS.

Your idea can already live as an app!

Your ideas can easily become functional apps. With accessible tools and a touch of creativity, anyone can turn concepts into digital solutions that genuinely serve a purpose.

This guide from Insiderbits explored how free platforms allow creators to transform a website into an app, unlocking practical opportunities for building tools and experiences online.

Insiderbits continues sharing engaging resources and insights for creators. Keep exploring our articles to discover new ways to develop projects and bring innovative ideas to life.