In a groundbreaking move, Wix, the renowned website builder platform, has acquired Base44, a six-month-old Israeli AI startup, for a staggering $80 million in cash. This acquisition marks a significant step for Wix as it aims to enhance its offerings with cutting-edge AI technology that simplifies app and web development.
Base44, founded by Maor Shlomo, a 31-year-old Israeli coder, has made waves in the tech industry with its innovative no-code platform. The startup enables users to create fully functional applications through natural language prompts, akin to conversing with AI, making software development accessible to non-coders.
Despite its short existence, Base44 achieved remarkable growth, amassing over 250,000 users and generating nearly $200,000 in monthly profits. Bootstrapped and employing just six people, the startup's success as a side project turned viral sensation caught the attention of major players like Wix.
Wix plans to integrate Base44’s vibe-coding technology into its ecosystem, further empowering businesses and individuals to build digital solutions effortlessly. This acquisition is expected to expand Wix’s reach to new audiences worldwide, as stated in their official announcement.
Maor Shlomo and his small team will join Wix, bringing their expertise in AI-driven development to the table. This deal also highlights the growing trend of AI startups achieving rapid success and attracting significant investments in the tech landscape.
The acquisition, completed with additional earn-out payments through 2029 based on performance, underscores Wix’s commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation. As the no-code movement gains momentum, this strategic move positions Wix as a leader in democratizing technology creation.
Andrew Lee
