Raycast: Popular Spotlight replacement for Macs comes to iOS

But can it fit into your workflow as smoothly as it does on Mac?

Bottom of the iPhone showing Ask Raycast AI
Bottom of the iPhone showing Ask Raycast AI
Bottom of the iPhone showing Ask Raycast AI

It’s probably already expected that we won’t get a Spotlight replacement on iOS like we do on Mac.

That said, Raycast for iOS still aims to be your all-in-one toolkit.

It includes AI chats, Raycast Notes, Quicklinks, and Snippets. If you’re on the Pro plan, you get iCloud sync across Mac and iOS, which is great if you’re already using those features regularly since you now get the added benefit of having them on the go.

Raycast AI and Notes on iPhone

Outside the app, I was personally hoping for a custom keyboard to be included. While that’s not available yet, the good news is that it is noted as a work in progress in the demo video.

For now, here’s what you can do outside the app:

  • Share Extension: When you select text on iOS, tap the arrow in the pop-up menu until you see the Share option, then tap it. Choose Raycast from the Share Sheet to run AI commands like Improve Writing or Fix Spelling and Grammar. You can copy the output and close the extension.

    Raycast Share Extension on iPhone

    It works, but it requires several taps and doesn't maintain the context in view. Therefore, I'm looking forward to the custom Raycast keyboard.


  • Shortcuts: Raycast comes with Apple Shortcuts like AI Command, Ask AI, New Note, which can be customized and integrated into your own workflows in the Shortcuts app.

    Raycast Shortcuts in Apple Shortcuts


  • Widgets: The app includes Home Screen, Lock Screen, and Control Centre widgets to quickly launch key features.

    Raycast controls on the iPhone


While it has its limitations, I still find Raycast for iOS to be a useful companion, especially for those who already use it on Mac. It helps maintain a connected experience and saves small bits of time throughout the day.

I’m all for tools that help my devices support me in getting things done and Raycast is definitely one of them.

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