Universe, the mobile website builder known for its no-code approach, has just unveiled an innovative AI-powered website designer called GUS (Generative Universe Sites). This cutting-edge tool is currently in beta and available for iOS users, allowing them to create and launch custom websites right from their devices.
Unlike traditional website builders that rely on templates, GUS takes a different approach. When you start using GUS, you’ll be greeted by the familiar Universe grid editor. However, instead of picking a template, you initiate a text conversation with GUS to begin the website creation process. GUS will ask you about the type of website you want to build and gather essential information about your vision. It might inquire about specific design preferences, color schemes, or the number of pages you intend to include.
Once GUS has a clear understanding of your requirements, it will generate a layout for your website. The best part is that this layout is fully editable, giving you the freedom to make changes without any coding knowledge. If you want to replace an image or modify any element, simply do so with a few taps. Once you’re satisfied with the outcome, you can easily publish your website.
Joseph Cohen, the founder and CEO of Universe, expressed their mission to empower everyone to create their online presence. GUS, with its generative AI capabilities, takes this mission to a whole new level, making website building accessible to a diverse range of users, from tattoo artists to general contractors, students, pragmatists, and visionaries, all through a simple conversation with GUS.
Currently available in beta for iOS users, Universe plans to expand GUS to the web in the future, ensuring that users without an iPhone or those who prefer desktops can also experience the power of GUS.
Universe’s GUS shares similarities with Wix’s AI Site Generator, which launched recently. Both tools aim to help small and medium-sized businesses overcome the challenges of launching and maintaining websites to drive sales. A 2022 survey revealed that nearly 27% of small businesses still don’t have a website, with low traffic and the complexities of adding advanced functionalities being among the top hurdles they face.
However, GUS and similar products aren’t just limited to business owners. They cater to anyone looking to create a website with ease, exemplifying Universe’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in web design. With its AI-driven capabilities, GUS empowers individuals from all walks of life to bring their creative visions to life on the digital canvas.
Since its founding in 2014, Universe has raised an impressive $47.3 million in funding, including a $30 million Series B round in December 2021, which featured investments from Google Ventures, Javelin Venture Partners, Box Group, and more. The company also received a $10 million Series A investment from Google Ventures in April 2020, solidifying its position in the website building space.
