development
App Intents
A Swift framework that exposes app actions to Siri, Shortcuts, Spotlight, and system suggestions, enabling proactive app discovery.
App Intents is a framework introduced in iOS 16 that lets developers define actions their app can perform and expose them to the system. These actions surface in Siri, Shortcuts, Spotlight suggestions, and the Action Button on newer iPhones. App Intents replaces the older SiriKit Intents framework with a streamlined, Swift-native approach.
How App Intents Work
Developers define intents as Swift structs that describe an action, its parameters, and its result. A fitness app might define a “Start Workout” intent with a workout type parameter. Once registered, the system surfaces these actions in relevant contexts. Users can trigger them through voice commands, shortcut automations, or system suggestions. App Intents also power interactive widgets and the Shortcuts app, creating multiple pathways to engage with functionality without launching the app.
Impact on App Discovery and Growth
App Intents expand where and how users encounter your app. When actions appear in Siri suggestions, Spotlight results, or the Shortcuts gallery, they create organic discovery moments outside the App Store. This matters for retention because the system learns user habits and suggests relevant actions at the right time. From an ASO perspective, rich intent support demonstrates deep platform integration, which Apple values when selecting apps for editorial features and curated collections.