Apple Shortcuts MCP Server

The Apple Shortcuts MCP server enables AI assistants like Claude to interact with and control Apple Shortcuts on macOS. This integration allows AI models to list available shortcuts, trigger them with parameters, and automate tasks on your Mac in a safe and controlled manner. By connecting AI assistants to your local automation workflows, this server bridges the gap between conversational AI and practical system automation. It provides a simple yet powerful interface that maintains user control while expanding what AI assistants can do on your behalf.

Overview

The Apple Shortcuts MCP server allows AI assistants to interact with your macOS Shortcuts, enabling automation of tasks directly through conversational interfaces. This server acts as a bridge between AI models and your local automation workflows.

Prerequisites

Before setting up the Apple Shortcuts MCP server, ensure you have:

Node.js v18 or higher installed on your system
Claude Desktop or another compatible AI assistant
macOS with the Shortcuts app configured and containing shortcuts you want to use

Installation

You can install and use the Apple Shortcuts MCP server in two ways:

Method 1: Using NPX (Recommended)

The simplest way to use the server is through NPX, which will automatically download and run the latest version. Add the following configuration to your Claude Desktop settings:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "apple-shortcuts": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "mcp-server-apple-shortcuts"]
    }
  }
}

Method 2: Local Build

If you prefer to build and run the server locally:

Clone the repository:

git clone git@github.com:recursechat/mcp-server-apple-shortcuts.git

Navigate to the project directory and install dependencies:
```
cd mcp-server-apple-shortcuts
npm install
```
Build the project:
```
npm run build
```

Configure Claude Desktop to use your local build:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "apple-shortcuts": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["/path/to/mcp-server-apple-shortcuts/build/index.js"]
    }
  }
}

Usage

Once the server is configured, you can interact with your Apple Shortcuts through your AI assistant. Here are some examples of what you can do:

Ask "List all my shortcuts" to see what shortcuts are available
Request to run a specific shortcut by name, such as "Run my 'Get Weather' shortcut"
Execute shortcuts with parameters when supported

The server handles the communication between your AI assistant and the macOS Shortcuts app, allowing for seamless integration of AI capabilities with your existing automation workflows.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with the Apple Shortcuts MCP server:

Ensure Node.js v18+ is properly installed
Verify that your shortcuts are properly configured in the macOS Shortcuts app
Check that the MCP server configuration in your AI assistant is correct
Restart your AI assistant after making configuration changes

Limitations

The server only works on macOS systems with the Shortcuts app installed
Some complex shortcuts may have limitations in how they can be triggered or parameterized
The server requires appropriate permissions to access and run your shortcuts

Apple Shortcuts MCP Server

listShortcuts

runShortcut