With iOS 26, Apple has taken automation to the next level by seamlessly integrating Apple Intelligence into the Shortcuts app. Thanks to the deep integration, you can fully leverage the power of on-device AI, cloud-based models, and even ChatGPT to simplify everyday tasks.
So, whether you want to automate productivity, generate creative content, or just explore smart shortcuts, the revamped Shortcuts app makes it possible—and easy. That said, let’s learn the 6 best tips to use the Apple Intelligence Shortcuts app on iPhone and iPad.
1. Explore the New Gallery of AI Shortcuts
The first place to start is the Shortcuts Gallery in iOS 26. Apple has added a curated list of ready-made Shortcuts that showcase what Apple Intelligence can do. These include:
- Morning Summary – Gives you a snapshot of your day.
- Leftover Recipes – Suggests recipes using items in your fridge.
- Summarize PDF – Quickly summarizes a document you’re viewing in Safari.
- Haiku – Generates creative poetry for fun.
Browse the Gallery to find examples and inspiration for building your own.
2. Use On-Device or Cloud-Based AI Models
When creating a Shortcut, you’ll notice a new Apple Intelligence section. Here, you can choose between:
- On-Device Model – Great for privacy and speed.
- Cloud Model – Uses Apple’s Private Cloud Compute for more complex tasks.
- ChatGPT – Integrated for conversational or generative content.
Each option comes with an open-ended prompt box where you can define exactly what you want the AI to do.
3. Combine AI with Apps and Data
Make your shortcuts more powerful by combining AI with other iOS apps like Calendar, Weather, Reminders, and Files. For instance:
- Create a shortcut that pulls calendar events and asks the AI to create a to-do list.
- Use reminders and let AI decide which ones to reschedule using the Reminders Roulette Shortcut.
This kind of integration makes your automation smart and context-aware.
4. Enhance Writing and Communication
The Shortcuts app now includes Writing Tools features powered by AI. You can:
- Summarize long texts
- Reword or rewrite content
- Adjust tone for professionalism or casual use
- Generate bullet points or lists from paragraphs
These tools are perfect for students, professionals, and content creators.
5. Try Creative and Fun Shortcuts
Apple Intelligence isn’t just for productivity. Try out fun shortcuts like:
- ASCII Art – Creates retro-style drawings with characters.
- Document Review – Helps compare key points from two documents.
- “Is Severance Season 3 Out?” – Demonstrates how AI can answer timely questions.
Experimenting with these can show you how AI understands context and offers smart responses.
6. Learn From the “Get Started With Language Models” Shortcut
If you’re unsure where to begin, the built-in Get Started With Language Models shortcut acts as a tutorial. It walks you through using Apple Intelligence in simple steps and provides examples you can modify.
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The Apple Intelligence update in iOS 26 transforms the Shortcuts app into a versatile AI toolkit. From handling daily tasks to generating creative content, the integration offers endless possibilities for users on iPhone and iPad. By exploring the Gallery, combining AI with apps, and customizing your own routines, you can unlock a powerful and personalized automation experience.
Stay tuned as Apple continues refining these tools throughout the beta period—more intelligent features are likely on the way.
