Apple Announces AI-Powered Shortcuts App at WWDC 2025

Apple Unveils AI-Powered Shortcuts App at WWDC 2025

During the WWDC 2025 conference, Apple demonstrated a significantly enhanced Shortcuts application, now integrated with artificial intelligence.

Leveraging Apple Intelligence and On-Device LLMs

The company announced that Shortcuts can now directly utilize Apple Intelligence. Developers will gain access to Apple’s large language model (LLM) which operates directly on the device.

Users can access these AI models either locally on their device or through Private Compute. This allows for the generation of responses that seamlessly integrate into existing shortcuts.

Practical Applications and Examples

Consider a student who wishes to improve their study habits. They could design a shortcut that employs AI to compare an audio transcription of a lecture with their handwritten notes.

The shortcut can then identify and incorporate any crucial points that were missed during note-taking. Furthermore, integration with ChatGPT is possible, allowing for additional responses to be fed into the shortcut’s workflow.

Introducing Intelligent Actions

Apple is introducing intelligent actions, a new shortcut type powered by Apple Intelligence. These actions simplify complex tasks.

Examples include dedicated actions for AI-driven text summarization, utilizing Apple Intelligence’s Writing Tools, and image creation through Image Playground.

Availability and Testing

The new features are currently available for testing, beginning Monday. This allows developers and users to explore the capabilities of the AI-enhanced Shortcuts app.

Context: Siri's AI Enhancement and Delays

This AI-assisted Shortcuts app builds upon Apple’s previous announcement of an AI upgrade for its virtual assistant, Siri. The initial plan aimed for more personalized features and improved support.

However, the launch of the enhanced Siri was postponed, with Apple citing the need for additional development time to meet their standards.

Continued AI Focus at WWDC 2025

At WWDC 2025, Apple reaffirmed its commitment to AI, including the unveiling of the updated Shortcuts app designed for scripting and automation.

Expanding Accessibility

These AI-driven changes have the potential to make Shortcuts more accessible to a wider audience. Previously, the app was primarily used by more technically proficient users.

Current Shortcut Capabilities

Currently, Shortcuts enables users to perform a variety of tasks, including:

• Creating custom memes and GIFs
• Generating meeting notes
• Tracking time spent on activities
• Building playlists
• Saving PDFs
• Locating photo capture locations
• Setting location-based reminders
• Speed-dialing contacts
• Combining screenshots
• Shortening URLs
• Downloading files
• Saving articles for later reading

A Potential Bridge for Siri's AI Integration

The update may serve as an interim solution while Apple continues to refine and implement the full AI upgrade for Siri. Leveraging AI-assisted automation can enhance iPhone efficiency.

However, realizing this benefit requires users to invest time in creating and customizing shortcuts.