I Built a $1M AI App [No Code]

Updated: 5/27/2024


Summary

David, a full-time employee, built an AI app called XL for real bot (formerly known as Excel Formula Bot) using no-code tools like Bubble.io during his paternity leave. The app helps people work faster and smarter with data, offering AI-powered features like formula generation, text-to-formula translation, and data analysis within Excel and Google Sheets. Despite having no coding experience, David managed to launch the app and gain thousands of users through viral marketing strategies on Reddit and other platforms. Initially offering the app for free, he faced high API costs from OpenAI but persevered by accepting donations and running ads. Eventually, he introduced a paid subscription model, and the app now has around 750,000 users, with 5,000 paying for unlimited access, generating $226,000 in monthly recurring revenue. David's success stemmed from solving his own problem, iterating based on customer feedback, and continuously expanding the app's features to stay ahead of competitors like Microsoft and ChatGPT. His vision is to build a product that cannot be replicated by AI assistants or tech giants, offering convenience, customization, and unique capabilities that set it apart in the market.

David's Background and Idea

David Brusser, a full-time employee, had an opportunity to take a 6-week break when his youngest child was born. During this time, he decided to build a product to solve his own problem of helping colleagues with Excel-related tasks. He asked an AI application for a name and came up with 'Excel Formula Bot'.

Building with No-Code

Despite having no coding experience, David built the initial version of Excel Formula Bot using the no-code platform Bubble.io. He relied heavily on YouTube tutorials and documentation to learn and overcome challenges.

Initial Launch and Viral Growth

David first shared the app with colleagues, then posted it on Reddit's Excel subreddit and the 'Internet Is Beautiful' subreddit. The app went viral, gaining thousands of users within days.

Monetization and Challenges

Initially, David incurred high costs from the OpenAI API and had to recoup some expenses through donations. He experimented with ads and sponsorships before launching a paywall and subscription model. Competition from similar apps and the rise of ChatGPT posed challenges.

Product Evolution and Vision

Through customer feedback and addressing their needs, Excel Formula Bot evolved into a broader data analytics platform. David's vision is to build a product that cannot be replicated by ChatGPT or Microsoft's AI offerings, focusing on unique features and customization.


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FAQ

Q: What is the name of the app David built?

David built an app called XL for real bot (formerly called Formula Bot).

Q: How did David build the app without coding experience?

David used a no-code platform called Bubble.io to build the initial version of the app.

Q: How did David get his first users?

David posted about his app on Reddit, specifically on the Excel subreddit and the InternetIsBeautiful subreddit, which helped the app go viral.

Q: How did David start monetizing the app?

Initially, David recouped some costs through donations and sponsorships. Later, he launched a paid subscription model with a paywall and logins.

Q: How does David plan to differentiate his app from competitors like Microsoft and ChatGPT?

David plans to build features and products that cannot be replicated by ChatGPT or Microsoft's AI-integrated Office suite, focusing on unique capabilities beyond just formula generation.