Build Without Code: Flutter ChatGPT App with Custom Prompt using Nowa

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to build a customized ChatGPT-powered AI chat assistant app using Flutter, without any coding required. We will leverage the Nowa platform, which allows you to create mobile and web applications visually. In this instance, we will develop an AI chef assistant app that suggests healthy dessert recipes based on available ingredients.

Step 1: Create the Main Screen

• Begin by logging into your Nowa account.
• Create a new project and select a blank Flutter template.
• Design the main screen layout:
  • Add a header with the app title, e.g., "AI Chef Assistant."
  • Include a background image or color that fits the theme of cooking or desserts.
• Save your design and preview the main screen to ensure it looks appealing.

Step 2: Create the Text Field and Layout

• Add a text input field where users can enter available ingredients:
  • Drag and drop a Text Field component onto the main screen.
  • Set placeholder text to “Enter ingredients”.
  • Adjust the size and position for optimal user experience.
• Include a submit button next to the text field:
  • Label it as “Suggest Desserts”.
  • Style it to match the app’s theme.
• Ensure the text field and button are functional by linking them in the Nowa interface.

Step 3: Create the Chat Bubble

• Design an interactive chat bubble to display responses:
  • Use a container to create a visually appealing bubble.
  • Set the text style, font, and colors to match the overall design.
• Add a scrollable list to show multiple chat messages as the user interacts with the app.
• Test the chat bubble layout to ensure it responds well to different screen sizes.

Step 4: Connect to OpenAI API

• Access the OpenAI API:
  • Create an account on OpenAI and generate an API key.
  • In Nowa, navigate to the settings and input the API key for authentication.
• Set up the integration:
  • Use the Nowa interface to connect your app to the OpenAI API.
  • Ensure you configure the API endpoint to handle requests.

Step 5: Use the API Inside the App

• Implement functionality for sending user input to the OpenAI API:
  • Capture the text from the input field when the submit button is clicked.
  • Send a request to the API with the user's ingredients.
• Parse the API response:
  • Display the suggested dessert recipes in the chat bubble.
  • Ensure the app handles errors gracefully, providing feedback to the user.

Step 6: UI/UX Improvements

• Refine the user interface:
  • Enhance the chat bubble's animations for a smoother transition.
  • Improve the input field with character limits or suggestions as users type.
• Test the app’s usability on various devices to ensure an optimal user experience.
• Gather feedback from potential users and make adjustments accordingly.

Step 7: Whiteboard Time

• Use whiteboard sessions to brainstorm further improvements or additional features:
  • Consider adding a favorites section for users to save their preferred recipes.
  • Explore options for sharing recipes on social media.
• Plan out future updates based on user feedback and app performance.

Conclusion

You have successfully created a customized ChatGPT-powered AI chef assistant app using Nowa and Flutter. By following this guide, you can further enhance your app and even explore additional features in the future. Don't forget to download the Flutter source code for further development or deployment to app stores. Happy building!