WordPress.com has officially launched a new AI-powered website builder, now available in early access. This tool can create fully functional and visually appealing WordPress websites in minutes. Users simply input prompts via a chatbot to generate website content, including text, layout, and images.
To get started, users need a WordPress.com account. While a credit card isn't required for the trial, a WordPress.com hosting plan is needed for live use, starting at $18 per month (lower prices available with annual or longer-term subscriptions).
Using the builder is straightforward. Users tell the AI whether they need a personal or business website and describe desired page elements, such as heading styles and color schemes. WordPress.com notes that more specific initial prompts yield better results. During website generation, the chatbot asks for key information like company name and location. Upon completion, the website includes AI-generated headlines, images, and text.
A journalist tested the tool, creating a fictional retro video game store website. The generated page included sections like "Discover," "Events," and "Contact Us," showcasing a series of randomly generated game room images and even a fictional "Sega Saturday Showdown" event, although the image and event description didn't quite match.
Once built, the website can be transferred to WordPress.com hosting for manual editing or further refinement using the AI builder. Note that this tool currently only works with newly created WordPress instances; it cannot be used with existing websites.
The launch comes as WordPress.com's parent company, Automattic, announced 16% layoffs last week. Automattic also faces a lawsuit from hosting company WP Engine, which offers various website building and management tools.
Official blog: https://wordpress.com/blog/2025/04/09/ai-website-builder/
Key takeaways:
🌐 A new AI website builder generates complete WordPress pages in minutes, offering a streamlined user experience.
💰 Free trial available after registering a WordPress.com account; hosting plan purchase required for live use.
🛠️ The tool uses a chatbot to generate website content and is compatible with newly created WordPress instances.
