In a major step toward democratizing software development, Google has officially integrated Opal, its no-code, AI-powered mini app builder, directly into the Gemini web interface. Originally launched as a Google Labs experiment in July 2024, Opal is now accessible to Gemini users as an "Experimental Gem," allowing anyone to build functional tools through simple conversation.
Opal represents a shift in how we interact with technology—moving from simple chatbot queries to creating reusable, multi-step applications. It follows the "vibe coding" movement, where a user’s intent and natural language replace traditional programming syntax.
Instead of writing lines of Python or JavaScript, a user simply describes a workflow (e.g., "Build an app that takes my meeting notes, extracts action items, and formats them into a professional email"). Opal then builds the logic, chains the necessary AI models, and provides a functional user interface.
Key Features of Opal in Gemini
- No-Code Workflows: Chain together prompts, model calls, and external tools using visual blocks or natural language commands.
- Visual Editor: A side-by-side view that converts your text prompts into a list of actionable steps, making it easy to see exactly how your app functions.
- Remix & Reuse: Users can take pre-made "Gems" created by Google Labs (like Recipe Genie or Claymation Expert) and remix them to suit their specific needs.
- Instant Hosting: Google handles all the backend hosting, meaning your mini apps are ready to be used or shared immediately without a web server.
How to Build Your First AI Mini App
Accessing Opal is seamless for current Gemini users:
- Open Gemini: Go to gemini.google.com.
- Navigate to Gems: Click the hamburger menu (top left) and select Gems.
- Create New: Look for the banner: "Build AI apps, a new kind of Gem from Google Labs."
- Describe Your Idea: Start your prompt with "An app that..." and be as detailed as possible.
- Refine & Share: Use the visual editor to tweak specific steps or move to the Advanced Editor (at opal.google) for granular control.
Who is Opal For?
While professional developers can use Opal for rapid prototyping, its primary audience includes:
- Students: Building custom study aids or note-summarizing tools.
- Marketers: Creating content generators tailored to specific brand voices.
- Small Business Owners: Automating repetitive tasks like invoice generation or customer feedback analysis.
Note: Because Opal is an experimental Google Labs tool, data generated within these mini apps may not appear in your standard Gemini Apps Activity, and users are encouraged to double-check AI-generated outputs for accuracy.
