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Developer builds Excel-like web app in one week for under $100 using AI tools

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A software developer named Jeff set out to recreate most of Microsoft Excel's core functionality within a week and for less than $100, using AI tools including Anthropic's Claude Opus model. The resulting app, called HolySheet, includes spreadsheet basics such as file manipulation, formulas, rich cell formatting, pivot tables, charts, and multi-sheet support. Planning and implementation took only a few days, with additional time spent on testing and refinement. HolySheet also features AI-enhanced capabilities like plain-English explanations for complex formulas and error diagnostics. The project has prompted Jeff to question the scale of AI spending reported in the tech industry, given how much was achieved by a single developer at minimal cost.

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