In a world that demands digital solutions at the speed of thought, low-code/no-code platforms have already transformed how we build apps. Now, Generative AI (GenAI) is pushing this paradigm even further — by helping developers (and non-developers!) write smarter, build faster, and think less about syntax and more about solving problems.
This article explores how Oracle APEX, OutSystems, and Microsoft Power Apps are integrating GenAI to turbocharge development. We’ll dive into real use cases, technical details, and the emerging patterns of this game-changing combo.
The Promise of Low-Code + AI
Low-code platforms were created to minimize the manual labor of coding by abstracting the boilerplate — drag-and-drop interfaces, prebuilt components, and automation workflows. But even then, logic, data modeling, and configuration still required thought and effort.
Enter GenAI. With tools like ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, and domain-specific AI copilots, these platforms are now able to:
- Translate natural language into SQL, logic, or UI
- Auto-generate CRUD apps from schema definitions
- Assist with PL/SQL, formulas, or expressions
- Auto-debug and refactor existing flows
- Guide developers with contextual recommendations
Oracle APEX + AI: The Smart Way to Build in SQL World
What is Oracle APEX?
Oracle APEX (Application Express) is a popular low-code platform tightly integrated with Oracle Database. It allows developers to build web applications using PL/SQL, drag-and-drop components, and declarative logic.
How AI Comes Into Play
Oracle is introducing GenAI features into APEX to:
- Convert natural language to SQL or PL/SQL
- Assist with form generation based on data tables
- Smart code suggestions in APEX Code Editor
- AI-powered UI templates and design wizards
Example: Natural Language to SQL
Say you type:
“Get the top 5 customers by total order value from the last 6 months”
AI can generate:
SELECT customer_id, SUM(order_total) AS total_value
FROM orders
WHERE order_date >= ADD_MONTHS(SYSDATE, -6)
GROUP BY customer_id
ORDER BY total_value DESC
FETCH FIRST 5 ROWS ONLY;
That’s not just a time-saver — it democratizes database access for non-SQL users.
OutSystems + AI: Mentor Systems That Think Ahead
What is OutSystems?
OutSystems is a full-stack low-code platform used for enterprise-grade apps. It offers visual workflows, prebuilt connectors, and the ability to scale up to serious code when needed.
AI-Driven Features
OutSystems has developed the AI Mentor System, which acts like an intelligent assistant at every step:
- Architecture Advisor: Suggests improvements and anti-pattern warnings
- Code Mentor: Suggests optimized logic and prevents duplication
- Performance Mentor: Flags inefficient queries or workflows
- Security Mentor: Detects insecure configurations
Example: Smart Refactoring
Suppose a workflow calls the same REST API three times unnecessarily. The Code Mentor flags it and suggests caching or using a single call with logic branching.
Microsoft Power Apps + Copilot: Build from Words
What is Power Apps?
Part of Microsoft’s Power Platform, Power Apps enables users to create apps with minimal code using drag-and-drop UI and expressions (Power Fx).
Copilot Integration
Power Apps now includes Copilot, powered by Azure OpenAI, that allows users to:
- Build entire apps from natural language prompts
- Auto-generate forms based on Dataverse schema
- Suggest Power Fx expressions for logic
- Integrate with Power Automate to create workflows from user instructions
Example: Build an Inventory App in Seconds
User prompt:
“Create an inventory tracker app with item name, quantity, supplier, and reorder level.”
Copilot generates:
- A Dataverse table with these columns
- An editable form
- A filterable gallery
- Reorder alert logic
The Business Value
AI-enhanced low-code platforms are not just tools — they’re productivity enablers:
- Faster time to market: Ideas become working apps in hours, not weeks.
- Empowered business users: Citizen developers can do more without IT gatekeeping.
- Reduced errors: AI helps avoid logic bugs, performance issues, and security risks.
- Cross-team collaboration: AI enables designers, analysts, and devs to speak the same language — natural language.
Gotchas & Considerations
While this combo is powerful, it comes with a few caveats:
- AI hallucinations: Generated code may not always be correct — always validate.
- Data privacy: Ensure prompts don’t expose sensitive data to external LLMs.
- Platform lock-in: Know the limitations of generated logic before scaling.
- Governance: Citizen developers still need review, especially for business-critical workflows.
Final Thoughts
The fusion of low-code/no-code platforms with GenAI is not a passing trend — it’s the next evolution in software development. Platforms like Oracle APEX, OutSystems, and Power Apps are leading this charge, making it easier for anyone to turn ideas into impactful applications — without deep coding experience.
It’s not about replacing developers. It’s about amplifying them — and opening the door for more creators than ever.
What’s Next?
Are you using AI in your low-code workflow? Tried building with APEX’s AI or Power Apps Copilot? Share your experience or thoughts in the comments.
