General
What is Bloom?
What is Bloom?
Bloom is a full-stack mobile app builder that lets you create cross-platform apps using natural language. Describe what you want to build, and Bloom generates a working app with a native UI, database, authentication, and real-time sync. No coding required.
Do I need to know how to code?
Do I need to know how to code?
No. Bloom is designed for everyone, from complete beginners to experienced developers. You describe your app in plain language, and Bloom handles the technical implementation. If you do know how to code, you can export your project and continue development in your own environment.
What platforms can I build for?
What platforms can I build for?
Every Bloom app runs on iOS, Android, and the web from a single codebase. The frontend is built with Expo (React Native), which compiles to native code on mobile devices.
Can I export my code?
Can I export my code?
Yes. Your code is fully exportable and can be synced with GitHub. You own everything you build. If you want to continue development outside of Bloom, you can export your Expo + Convex project at any time.
Building Apps
How long does it take to build an app?
How long does it take to build an app?
Simple apps can be generated in minutes. More complex apps with multiple features might take a few hours of iteration. The time depends on the complexity of your idea and how much refinement you want.
What kinds of apps can I build?
What kinds of apps can I build?
Bloom is great for SaaS products, consumer apps, marketplaces, internal tools, education platforms, and AI-powered apps. See What You Can Build for examples and inspiration.
Can I build apps with AI features?
Can I build apps with AI features?
Yes. Bloom supports integrations with AI models like GPT. You can build apps with chatbots, content generation, image analysis, and other AI capabilities using Bloom’s API connections.
How do I make changes to my app?
How do I make changes to my app?
Use the chat interface to describe what you want to change. For example: “Add a dark mode toggle” or “Make the buttons larger.” Bloom will update your app and show the changes in the live preview.
What if Bloom builds something I don't like?
What if Bloom builds something I don't like?
Just tell Bloom what’s wrong. Describe what you expected versus what happened, and Bloom will iterate on the design. You can refine your app as many times as needed.
Backend and Data
Do I need to set up a database?
Do I need to set up a database?
No. Every Bloom app automatically includes a Convex backend with a database, real-time sync, and file storage. Just describe what data your app needs to store, and Bloom handles the rest.
Is my data secure?
Is my data secure?
Yes. Bloom uses Convex for the backend, which provides enterprise-grade security, automatic backups, and encryption. Authentication is handled through OAuth providers (Google, GitHub, Apple), so passwords are never stored in your app.
Can my app handle lots of users?
Can my app handle lots of users?
Yes. The Convex backend is serverless and scales automatically. Whether you have 10 users or 10,000, your app’s performance stays consistent without any configuration on your part.
Does Bloom support real-time features?
Does Bloom support real-time features?
Yes. Convex provides real-time data sync out of the box. When data changes, all connected clients update instantly. This is great for chat apps, collaborative tools, live dashboards, and more.
Sharing and Publishing
How do I share my app with others?
How do I share my app with others?
Can I publish to the App Store and Google Play?
Can I publish to the App Store and Google Play?
Yes. When your app is ready for a public launch, Bloom supports publishing to both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. See Deploying Your App for the process.
Do I need a developer account to publish?
Do I need a developer account to publish?
Yes. Publishing to app stores requires an Apple Developer account (25 one-time fee) for Android. These are set up directly with Apple and Google, not through Bloom.
Can I use my own domain?
Can I use my own domain?
Custom domains are not currently supported for shared apps. Apps are shared via Bloom-generated links. If you need a custom domain, you can export your code and deploy it to your own hosting.
Pricing and Plans
Is Bloom free to use?
Is Bloom free to use?
Bloom offers a free tier that lets you build and test apps. Paid plans unlock additional features, more generations, and higher usage limits. See Pricing & Credits for current options.
What happens if I exceed my plan limits?
What happens if I exceed my plan limits?
You’ll be notified when you’re approaching your limits. You can upgrade your plan at any time to continue building. Your existing apps won’t be affected.
Can I cancel my subscription?
Can I cancel my subscription?
Yes. You can cancel your subscription at any time from your account settings. You’ll retain access to your plan features until the end of your billing period.
Technical Questions
What technology stack does Bloom use?
What technology stack does Bloom use?
Bloom apps are built with Expo (React Native) for the frontend and Convex for the backend. This gives you native mobile performance, real-time data sync, and a serverless infrastructure that scales automatically.
Can I use my own API keys?
Can I use my own API keys?
Yes. While Bloom provides auto-provisioned API keys for quick setup, you can add your own API keys for services like OpenAI, Stripe, and others. See API Connections for details.
Does Bloom support push notifications?
Does Bloom support push notifications?
Yes. You can add push notifications to your app by describing the notification behavior you want. Bloom will configure the necessary infrastructure using Expo’s notification system.
Can I integrate with external services?
Can I integrate with external services?
Yes. Bloom supports integrations with many external APIs and services. You can connect payment processors, analytics tools, AI models, and more. See Integrations for supported services.