Apple will let you build workflows using AI in its new Shortcuts app

Apple has significantly updated its Shortcuts app for iOS 27, making it more user-friendly through the integration of artificial intelligence. Previously designed for power users, the app now allows anyone to create automated workflows by simply describing their needs. This enhancement was unveiled at Apple's WWDC 2026 event.

The new functionality is powered by Apple Intelligence, which interprets natural language descriptions and translates them into actionable steps. This eliminates the need for users to navigate complex app actions or variables, simplifying the automation process. Celcia Dantas, Sr. Manager of Home Software Product Marketing, acknowledged the previous complexity of creating shortcuts, highlighting how AI now makes the app more approachable for non-technical individuals.

For example, users could easily create an automation that notifies their partner of their estimated arrival time when leaving work. Instead of manually configuring each step, a simple typed request would enable Shortcuts to integrate system and app actions, such as calculating the ETA with Apple Maps and sending a message.

Furthermore, Apple notes that users can refine or modify existing shortcuts using natural language. In the "leaving work" scenario, a user could later add an instruction to start playing a podcast. The updated Shortcuts app will be available with the public release of iOS 27 later this fall.