Overview
What is Apple Shortcuts MCP Server?
Apple Shortcuts MCP Server is a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that enables AI assistants like Claude to control Apple Shortcuts automations on macOS. It provides a safe and controlled way for AI models to trigger shortcuts and automate tasks by listing available shortcuts and running them by name with optional input parameters.
How to use Apple Shortcuts MCP Server?
Install Node.js (v18+), Claude Desktop, and ensure macOS Shortcuts is configured. Add the server configuration to Claude Desktop’s settings using npx -y mcp-server-apple-shortcuts. Then ask Claude to "list shortcuts" or run a specific shortcut by name.
Key features of Apple Shortcuts MCP Server
- Lists all available Apple Shortcuts on macOS
- Runs shortcuts by name with optional input parameters
- Simple MCP-based integration with Claude Desktop
- No persistent data storage required
- Open source under Apache-2.0 license
Use cases of Apple Shortcuts MCP Server
- Ask Claude to run a daily “get word of the day” shortcut
- Trigger a “play a song” shortcut via voice or text
- Automate repetitive workflows by chaining shortcuts with AI
- Use Claude to list and select from available shortcuts
FAQ from Apple Shortcuts MCP Server
What are the prerequisites for Apple Shortcuts MCP Server?
Node.js v18 or higher, Claude Desktop, and macOS with the Shortcuts app configured.
How do I configure Apple Shortcuts MCP Server for Claude Desktop?
Add a JSON block to Claude Desktop’s mcpServers with "command": "npx" and "args": ["-y", "mcp-server-apple-shortcuts"].
How do I run shortcuts using Apple Shortcuts MCP Server?
Ask Claude to “list shortcuts” to see available ones, then request a specific shortcut by name (e.g., “get word of the day”).
Does Apple Shortcuts MCP Server work on Windows or Linux?
No, it is designed exclusively for macOS because it interacts directly with the macOS Shortcuts app.
What runtime does Apple Shortcuts MCP Server require?
It requires Node.js version 18 or higher and runs as a command-line MCP server.
