Experimenting with AI just got a whole lot easier with Opal, Google Labs’ new no-code tool that turns simple prompts into fully functional mini-apps. Whether you want to prototype an idea, showcase a proof of concept, or build a custom AI workflow to boost productivity, Opal makes it possible with no coding experience required. The platform is currently in public beta in the U.S., giving early adopters a first look at what Google hopes will be a game-changer for creators.
Getting started is straightforward. Users describe what they want their app to do in plain language, and Opal transforms those instructions into a visual workflow. Each step represents an action, from user inputs to AI model calls and outputs, and can be tweaked, added to, or rearranged through a drag-and-drop interface. For those who prefer to type their way through changes, Opal also supports conversational mode, letting you update workflows with natural-language commands. Once finished, your mini-app can be shared with friends or colleagues via a link, allowing them to test it with their own Google account.
For inspiration, Opal features a gallery of starter templates, ready to use as-is or remix to your liking. It’s a perfect way to jump in without getting bogged down, while still giving power users full creative control. Google positions Opal as a tool to accelerate AI prototyping, streamline workflows, and even explore new productivity hacks.
The app arrives during a surge in interest around AI-powered creation tools, joining competitors like Canva, Figma, and Replit, all of which aim to make app-building accessible to non-technical users. AI Developer Karim Chaanine commented, “Interesting positioning against Microsoft’s recent moves. Opal feels like Google’s answer to Power Platform + Copilot Studio, with natural language app building and Gemini models underneath.” Venture capitalist Nabeel Hyatt added, “Interesting experiment in the AI apps workflow builder category.”
Whether you’re a developer, designer, or simply curious about AI, Opal lets you bring your ideas to life visually, quickly, and collaboratively. It’s an inviting playground for creativity, offering a fun, low-pressure way to experiment with AI applications without needing coding skills.
Google Opal is now available in public beta for U.S. users.
Conversation with Ting Wei is like chatting with a weird AI bot programmed only with One Piece lore and theories, sitcom quotes and other miscellaneous pop culture references. When he’s not sleeping, he’s highly likely reading manga. In fact, the only thing he reads more than manga is the Bible, and it’s honestly pretty close.
Si Jia
