"Vibe coding" simplifies web creation but lacks depth
"Vibe coding" is the latest trend that aims to simplify website creation for people with little to no tech skills. This approach uses AI models like ChatGPT to generate code based on simple prompts. However, experts warn that it might not be as easy as it seems. Some tech enthusiasts believe anyone can build a website just by using everyday language with ChatGPT. Andrej Karpathy, a cofounder of OpenAI, described vibe coding as a way to focus on ideas without thinking about the underlying code. He believes that by verbally expressing what you want, you can create web applications effectively. This concept gained attention when Kevin Roose, a New York Times columnist, claimed he created websites and apps without any programming knowledge. He suggested that with just an idea and some patience, anyone could achieve similar results. Generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini are designed to produce code on demand. While vibe coding could change how software is developed, experts say it won't make traditional coding irrelevant. There may be some job losses, especially for those in basic coding roles. In February, the tech sector in the U.S. lost nearly 10,000 jobs, marking a low point in employment. Yet, not everyone finds success with vibe coding. Many users without coding experience struggle to use these models effectively. They often lack the knowledge to evaluate AI-generated output properly. Additionally, understanding various tech concepts is crucial for creating a working application. Even for seasoned developers, navigating AI tools can be tricky. Claude Rubinson, a sociology professor, shared his own challenges in building an app using AI. He emphasized that his understanding of coding was essential to guide the AI effectively. Experts highlight that mastering the prompts given to AI is important. Many everyday users may not know how to do this, which affects how well they can utilize these tools.