Apple’s AI-Powered Shortcuts App Debuts at WWDC 2025

Apple Unveils Next-Gen Shortcuts With Apple Intelligence

At WWDC 2025, Apple showcased a groundbreaking evolution of its Shortcuts app with deep integration of Apple Intelligence capabilities. This major update transforms the automation tool into an AI-powered assistant that unlocks new productivity potential for both casual users and power users alike.

On-Device AI Processing Comes to Shortcuts

The revamped Shortcuts app now directly accesses Apple’s on-device large language model (LLM), giving users two processing options:

• Local AI computation on the device itself
• Enhanced processing through Private Compute Cloud when additional power is needed

Real-World AI Automation Examples

Apple demonstrated several practical applications of the enhanced Shortcuts capabilities:

• Students can create workflows that compare lecture recordings with notes to identify missing key points
• Content creators can leverage ChatGPT integration directly within their automation sequences
• Professionals can utilize AI-powered summarization and image generation tools built into workflows

New Intelligent Actions & Developer Access

The update introduces intelligent actions – specialized shortcuts powered by Apple Intelligence. Notable features include:

• One-tap text summarization using Apple’s writing tools
• Direct image generation through Image Playground
• Expanded API access for developers to integrate the LLM into their own shortcut creations

Availability and Testing Timeline

Apple has made these advanced AI automation features available for developer testing immediately, with public release expected later this year. This launch follows Apple’s previously announced but delayed AI upgrades to Siri, positioning Shortcuts as an immediate alternative for users wanting AI-enhanced productivity.

Democratizing Automation for All Users

By integrating AI assistance into Shortcuts, Apple aims to:

• Make automation accessible beyond technical users
• Provide intelligent task completion without requiring Siri’s full AI overhaul
• Maintain Apple’s privacy standards with on-device processing options

The update builds upon Shortcuts’ existing capabilities while adding powerful AI functionality – from smart memo creation to intelligent image processing – that promises to redefine mobile automation on Apple devices.