Bolt.new
Bolt.new is an AI-powered full-stack app builder by StackBlitz that runs entirely in your browser. You describe what you want, and Bolt generates, runs, and lets you edit a complete web application — all without installing anything locally. The secret is WebContainer technology: a Node.js runtime that executes inside the browser tab itself, meaning the app actually runs and you can see it working in real time as Bolt writes the code.
How It Works
Most AI app builders generate code but can't run it — you have to copy the output into your own environment to test. Bolt is different:
- 1. Type your prompt: "Build a recipe app with search, bookmarks, and ingredient substitution suggestions"
- 2. Bolt generates the full project — files, dependencies, config
- 3. The WebContainer boots Node.js inside your browser tab and runs npm install
- 4. A live preview of the running app appears next to the editor — update as Bolt makes changes
- 5. Iterate by chatting: "add a dark mode toggle", "fix the mobile layout"
- 6. Deploy to Netlify or export to GitHub
What It Builds
Supported stacks
- • React, Next.js, Remix
- • Vue, Svelte, Astro
- • Node.js / Express backends
- • TypeScript throughout
- • Tailwind CSS, shadcn/ui
- • Supabase, Firebase integrations
Good project types
- • MVPs and prototypes
- • Landing pages and portfolios
- • CRUD apps with auth
- • Developer tools and utilities
- • API exploration and testing UIs
- • Teaching projects and demos
Key Features
Zero-install workflow
No Node.js, no npm, no local environment needed. The entire development environment runs in the browser. Works on any computer with Chrome or Edge — Chromebook, work laptop with locked-down IT, a borrowed machine.
Live preview
The app runs in a side panel as Bolt writes code. You see changes reflected immediately — no build step, no manual refresh cycle. Catch UI issues the moment they appear.
GitHub export
Push the generated project to a GitHub repo at any point. Take it into your local editor, continue in VS Code, or hand off to a developer. No lock-in.
One-click deploy
Deploy directly to Netlify from within Bolt. Get a live public URL without touching a terminal. Good enough for demos, client reviews, and early-stage MVPs.
Bolt.new vs Lovable
Both are AI app builders in the same space — the main practical differences:
| Bolt.new | Lovable | |
|---|---|---|
| Environment | In-browser (WebContainer) | Server-side |
| Database | Supabase, Firebase (manual setup) | Supabase (auto-provisioned) |
| Live preview | Yes — runs in browser tab | Yes — hosted preview |
| UI editing | Chat-based | Chat + Visual Edits (click to edit) |
| Best for | Rapid prototyping, zero-install demos | Production MVPs with auth + payments |
Limitations
- • WebContainer runs in-browser — heavy server-side workloads or background jobs need real infrastructure
- • Token/credit limits apply; complex apps with many iterations can hit limits quickly
- • Not suited for native mobile apps or complex real-time systems
- • Production deployments beyond Netlify require exporting and self-hosting
Checklist: Do You Understand This?
- What is WebContainer technology and why does it matter for Bolt.new?
- How does Bolt.new differ from Lovable in terms of environment and database setup?
- What is the deployment option built into Bolt.new?
- When would you choose Bolt over a local development environment?