Google and Apple are adding AI tools to generate Android apps, widgets, and shortcuts from text prompts on mobile devices.

Google announced at I/O an update to its AI Studio tool that lets users create a native Android app and export it to a phone in minutes; the feature is limited to 'personal utility' apps initially, and Play Store rules remain unchanged. Google also announced an upcoming feature to create widgets with a prompt, with examples including widgets that highlight weather metrics or suggest recipes.

Apple is working on a way to create shortcuts based on prompts, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Shortcuts are automations programmed within the Shortcuts app; prompt-based creation could let users set up automations like opening the transit app when arriving at the bus stop or activating a focus mode when connecting to home Wi-Fi.

Google calls AI-generated widgets a first step toward 'generative UI,' where a phone creates interfaces and apps on the fly based on immediate needs. Android president Sameer Samat stated the company does not want devices to have different UIs every morning, but sees potential for 'a level of personalization and customization' that could be 'delightful.'