iOS 27 could transform Apple's Shortcuts app with AI-powered action creation

iOS 27 Brings AI-Powered Action Creation to Shortcuts App

Apple is developing a transformative feature for the Shortcuts app in iOS 27 that will allow users to create custom actions using AI through natural language commands, according to backend code discovered by Nicolás Alvarez and confirmed by MacRumors2

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. The capability represents a significant shift from the current manual approach, where users must piece together workflows step-by-step through menus and predefined options.

The new feature will leverage Apple Intelligence models to generate new shortcut actions based on AI prompts delivered via voice commands or text prompt inputs1

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. Instead of navigating complex menus, iPhone users could simply say something like "Turn on Do Not Disturb when I open Netflix" or "Send a message to my mom when I leave work," and the app would automatically create that automation3

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How Apple Intelligence Changes Shortcuts Functionality

While iOS 26 introduced Apple Intelligence support to the Shortcuts app by allowing AI models to be incorporated into existing shortcuts, iOS 27 takes this AI integration much further. The upcoming version will enable users to generate unique actions themselves using Apple Intelligence models, rather than just embedding AI capabilities into pre-built workflows2

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This shortcuts generator capability is expected to tie directly into the broader Siri revamp planned for iOS 27, which will transform Siri into a genuine conversational chatbot that can interact with apps systemwide2

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. The integration may include an Ask Siri button within the Shortcuts app itself, enabling users to create custom actions through conversational AI rather than technical configuration1

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Making Automations Intuitive and User-Friendly

The Shortcuts app, which emerged from Apple's 2017 acquisition of Workflow, has long been criticized for feeling clunky and outdated despite its power3

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. For users unfamiliar with building automations, the current interface can feel overwhelming and not beginner-friendly. By introducing natural language commands powered by AI models, Apple aims to make the tool far more accessible to everyday users who want automation benefits without the technical learning curve.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman first reported in June 2024 that Apple was working on this AI-driven feature for release in 2025, though delays could push it to 20262

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. With iOS 27 set to be unveiled in June, the timing aligns with Apple's broader push to infuse Apple Intelligence throughout its ecosystem.

What This Means for iPhone Users

The shift toward AI-powered action creation could fundamentally change how iPhone users interact with automations. Rather than requiring users to understand the technical structure of workflows, the new approach lets Apple Intelligence handle the complexity behind the scenes. This matters particularly for users who've avoided the Shortcuts app entirely due to its steep learning curve, potentially unlocking powerful automation capabilities for millions who previously found the tool too difficult to navigate.

The feature also signals Apple's strategy to differentiate its AI implementation by focusing on practical, everyday utility rather than just conversational AI. By embedding the shortcuts generator within the revamped Siri experience, Apple is positioning Apple Intelligence as a tool that actively helps users accomplish tasks, not just answer questions. As iOS 27 development continues, the integration between Siri, Apple Intelligence, and the Shortcuts app will be worth watching closely for anyone interested in how AI can make smartphones more capable and easier to use.