Apple Shortcuts’ AI-Driven Future
Apple’s upcoming macOS 27 will feature a game-changing addition to its Shortcuts app: the ability to create custom shortcuts using generative artificial intelligence. This mirrors the rise of AI-powered automation tools in the industry, such as Zapier’s automation features. The new feature allows users to describe what they want a shortcut to do, and the app will build it. This development has significant implications for the future of workflow automation.
For those who regularly build shortcuts, the process can be tedious and time-consuming. The introduction of AI-driven shortcut creation will likely streamline this process, saving users a substantial amount of time. However, it’s essential to note that AI-built shortcuts may not work perfectly, requiring users to tweak and refine them.
The only downside is that this feature won’t launch until autumn, with the release of macOS 27. However, for those eager to try it out now, Federico Viticci, founder of MacStories, has developed a third-party solution called Shortcuts Playground, which runs on Claude Code or OpenAI’s Codex.
Shortcuts Playground: A Third-Party Solution
Shortcuts Playground allows users to create custom shortcuts using AI, similar to the upcoming feature in macOS 27. To get started, users need to install the Shortcuts Playground agent, which can be done by copying and pasting a command into the Terminal. Once installed, users can trigger the agent by typing / followed by “shortcuts,” which will present a list of options.
Using the shortcuts-playground:build option, users can describe what they want the shortcut to do, and the agent will build a custom shortcut. The agent may stop to ask for more information or explain what is and isn’t possible to build in Apple Shortcuts. Once the shortcut is built, users can fine-tune it in the Shortcuts app.
While exploring this tool, I created a shortcut that compiled today’s weather, calendar appointments, and to-do list, then read the entire thing out loud. The agent successfully built a working shortcut, which I could then refine in the Shortcuts app.
Winners and Losers: The Impact of AI-Driven Shortcuts
The introduction of AI-driven shortcuts will likely benefit power users who regularly create custom workflows. However, this development may also disrupt the market for third-party automation tools, such as Zapier and IFTTT. These companies may need to adapt to the changing landscape and find new ways to differentiate their products.
Additionally, the rise of AI-driven shortcuts may also impact the job market for workflow automation specialists. As automation tools become more accessible and user-friendly, the demand for specialized skills may decrease.
On the other hand, the increased adoption of AI-driven shortcuts may also create new opportunities for developers and entrepreneurs. As the technology improves, we can expect to see new products and services emerge that take advantage of this feature.
The Skeptical Case: Limitations and Risks
While AI-driven shortcuts have the potential to revolutionize workflow automation, there are also limitations and risks to consider. One major concern is the potential for AI-built shortcuts to be imperfect or even malfunction. This could lead to unintended consequences, such as data loss or security breaches.
Another risk is the potential for over-reliance on AI-driven shortcuts. As users become more dependent on these tools, they may lose the ability to create custom workflows manually. This could lead to a loss of skills and knowledge in the long run.
The Signal to Watch: Apple’s Official Launch
The next major development to watch is the official launch of Apple’s AI-driven shortcut feature in macOS 27. This will likely happen in autumn, and it will be essential to see how the feature is received by users and developers. Will it live up to the hype, or will it be met with skepticism and criticism?
One key indicator to watch is the adoption rate of the feature. If users quickly take to the new technology, it could signal a major shift in the workflow automation market. On the other hand, if adoption is slow, it may indicate that the feature is not as user-friendly or effective as expected.
What’s your take on this? Drop your perspective in the comments below.
By Alex Mercer, Senior Tech Analyst at TrendFlashy
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