Zoho introduces CoCreator to simplify app building

n a move that reflects the growing convergence of artificial intelligence and low-code development, Zoho Corporation has unveiled a suite of advanced AI-driven tools within its application builder, Zoho Creator. The updates are designed to streamline app development for users across skill levels, using natural language inputs and intelligent automation.

At the heart of this update is CoCreator, a new AI-powered assistant integrated into the Creator platform. It allows users to design applications by describing their needs through voice commands, process diagrams, or written specifications—essentially turning ideas into fully functional applications. According to the company, this evolution is about reducing technical friction and widening access to custom software development.

CoCreator is powered by Zia, Zoho’s long-standing AI engine that already supports features across the company’s wider product suite. First introduced in 2015, Zia functions as a contextual layer across Zoho’s 55+ applications, and in this latest release, extends its capabilities in Creator with real-time suggestions, code generation, and data analysis tools.

One of the key features rolled out is the Idea-to-App generator. Users can describe their application in plain language—or share process flows and system requirement documents—and the system will generate entire workflows, forms, permission structures, and dashboards. The tool also supports models from OpenAI, offering more flexibility for users seeking specific kinds of output or assistance.

Beyond app creation, the update brings intelligent data handling features. The AI now helps users cleanse and structure datasets from various sources, turning messy data into organised app components. Meanwhile, Zia also assists developers in refining existing applications by suggesting contextual form fields or optimising code blocks—bridging the gap between beginner users and more experienced programmers.

Another notable addition is AI Skills, a feature in early access, which enables business apps to respond to natural language, interpret workflows, and automate tasks using Zoho’s own scripting language and specialised models. More advanced users can also deploy custom AI models for specific use cases like OCR, predictions, or object detection.

Zoho’s approach to AI is shaped by its long-standing emphasis on user privacy and ownership of its tech stack. The company notes that its AI models do not train on customer data, nor do they store personal information. Instead, the focus is on building targeted, useful capabilities while avoiding dependency on external platforms or monetisation through data.

The enhancements to Zoho Creator come at a time when businesses are looking for smarter, faster ways to build custom digital tools—especially in sectors where IT teams are overstretched or developer resources are limited. These AI additions signal a continued shift in how low-code platforms are evolving: from basic drag-and-drop interfaces to more intuitive, language-based development environments.

Zoho Artificial Intelligence Differentiation

Zoho’s approach to artificial intelligence is shaped by a focus on privacy and practical utility. Its AI models—spanning contextual, assistive, and agentic capabilities—are not trained on user data and are designed to function without retaining customer information. The company aims to develop tools that support business users in meaningful ways while keeping the underlying models efficient and cost-effective.