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We’re on the cusp of an exciting era in app development, where AI is making it possible to create powerful, focused apps that solve everyday problems without the complexity of traditional apps. I call these “AI Microapps,” and I believe they have the potential to disrupt incumbent players who are often slow to adopt cutting-edge AI features due to the constraints of their existing user base.

This shift allows builders to focus on solving problems we’re passionate about, rather than on monetization. My first experiment? An AI-powered wine microapp designed to help casual enthusiasts like myself better understand and enjoy wine.

The Problem: Wine Confusion

As a casual wine drinker, I’ve faced several challenges:

  • Feeling lost when choosing wine at stores or restaurants
  • Struggling to remember names and regions, which are crucial for understanding wine
  • Difficulty finding wines I’ve enjoyed in the past or being discouraged by price fluctuations

A conversation with a wine-savvy friend revealed a key insight: focusing on wine regions, rather than just names or producers, could be a simple approach for understanding and discovering wines.

The Solution: AI-Powered Wine Discovery

Here’s how the microapp will work:

  1. Smart Input: upload a photo, spreadsheet, or text about your wine collection or preferences.
  2. AI Visuals: The app creates a visualization of your preferred regions and a detailed data table.
  3. Learn: Learn the basics about the regions you like to aid further discussion and discovery.
  4. Easy Rating System: Rate wines based on enjoyment and value, or import your custom rating system.
  5. AI Recommendations: Get instant suggestions for new producers and similar regions based on your preferences.
  6. On-the-Go Sommelier: Snap a photo of a wine list when you’re out, and the AI will recommend what to choose and why.
  7. Sharing: Share your wine profile with friends, making it easier to discuss and discover together.
  8. Data Ownership: Export your data anytime in CSV format for portability.

Want to help?

  • What features would make this app a must-have for you?
  • Do you have a spreadsheet or list of your wine data you’d be willing to share for testing?
  • What do you think about this rating system for wines?
    • - Did you love this wine? Thumb up / down
    • - Would you buy it (or buy it again) for the price paid? Thumb up / down

Thank you in advance for helping me uncork this idea.