Gary Simon: AI unlocks complex projects, drives tutorial demand

AI Removes Coding Friction

Gary Simon argues that AI popularity on YouTube reflects genuine demand because AI eliminates years of syntax, algorithms, and skill-building needed for complex projects. He groups developers into those who love the coding process and those, like himself, who prioritize end results. AI lets the latter build faster while maintaining security and good practices.

Simon adopted AI heavily two years ago after finding massive utility in it. He notes that even with his intermediate coding and strong design background, AI unlocks ideas he lacks time or expertise for otherwise.

Projects Built with AI Assistance

Simon shares four personal projects completed using AI:

• Note Fury: Guitar-to-computer app that detects notes with a 3D UI; he could not have built it from scratch as an intermediate developer.
• LabCote: Blood analysis app where AI provided more valuable insights than any doctor.
• Designcourse.com refactor: Spent three months from December to February using Claude 3 Opus; zero hand-coding involved despite complex backend, AI integrations, and custom tools that replaced subscriptions like live chat.
• Pole projection software: Current project tying many components; addicting because AI lets him build whatever he imagines.

Why AI Tutorials Thrive

Simon counters Kyle Cook's (Web Dev Simplified) claim that channels chase views with 'AI crap.' He cites Econ 101: demand drives supply. Non-experts (99% of people) want to build ideas but hit issues, creating need for tips on best models, prompting, and integration. AI still requires skill to harness effectively.

Hand-coding tutorials declined because AI satisfies users seeking results over process. Simon plans to continue AI content to share his tips and tricks.