Apple’s ‍Shortcuts App to ‍Get AI Boost: Smarter Automation on the Horizon

⁤ ⁢ updated ⁣June 01,2025

Apple ⁤is planning a⁢ important upgrade to its Shortcuts app,potentially integrating artificial intelligence ⁣to simplify automation for users. The move aims to make the tool more accessible,⁤ especially for those who find the current interface challenging.

Originally an indie project called‍ Workflow, ⁢the Shortcuts app has long been a utility for automating tasks on Apple devices. Now, Apple Intelligence may power a new version, allowing users to ⁢create actions using natural language commands. This integration aligns with industry trends, as seen with Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs, which use AI to perform system⁣ adjustments based on user requests.

Imagine using voice ⁣or text prompts to trigger complex ⁢automations, such as setting up Do Not Disturb, ⁢dimming ⁤the⁢ screen, and opening specific notes when starting⁤ a video ⁢call. The AI-based Shortcuts app could also capture participant details and draft meeting summaries, streamlining workflows for users.

Anthropic’s Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open standard for AI assistant integration with external data sources, could further enhance⁤ automation capabilities. While it’s⁢ uncertain if Apple will adopt MCP, it could enable broader automation beyond system settings and local app control.

“A revamped version of its Shortcuts app…will let ‍consumers create those⁣ actions using Apple Intelligence models. (This had long⁣ been planned for 2025, but delays may push it to 2026.)”

What’s next

While the AI-powered Shortcuts feature was initially slated for 2025, it ⁤might be delayed until ⁣2026.It remains to be seen whether Apple ‍will showcase it at the upcoming WWDC keynote.