Remember those moments when a tech giant throws a curveball, only for the underdog to dodge it in style? That’s exactly what just happened with Anything. For those of you who don’t know, it is an AI-powered app builder that allows users to build mobile and web apps using simple text input.
Last week, Apple removed the app from the App Store, citing its usual policy on code execution and app “autonomy.” The move felt like part of a broader push toward so-called “vibe coding” tools, where building software is starting to feel as casual as texting a friend.
Apple pulled the app… and everything got creative
Instead of giving in, the Anything team went into chaos mode, and in a good way. They rebuilt the core experience in iMessage, effectively turning a messaging app into an app creation tool. Yes, actual app creation… through texts.
Not only did it work, it exploded. The workaround went viral, people loved the genius, and the narrative changed almost immediately. What started as “Apple said no” quickly turned into “Wait, that’s really awesome.” Memes followed, timelines filled, and suddenly it felt like Apple had been outdone at its own game.
And now, quite simply, it’s back
Just a few days later, Apple quietly brought “Anything” back to the App Store with a few changes, but the basic idea remains the same: Build apps with simple text prompts, preview them instantly, and ship them directly from a phone. The comeback also feels like a subtle change in dynamic. AI makes creation faster, easier and much more accessible. And when developers can bypass limitations with something as simple as iMessage, it becomes harder to toe that line.
As AI makes creation effortless, even tightly controlled platforms are forced to adapt. And if this saga proves anything, it’s that creativity always finds a way around the rules.
