Apple made a big splash at WWDC 2025 with major design and feature updates for all its operating systems. One of the interesting trends that always emerges during these announcements is the concept of "Sherlocking," where Apple introduces features that were previously available through third-party apps.
The term "Sherlocking" originated back in the late ’90s when Apple released a search app called Sherlock for macOS 8, which was similar to a third-party app called Watson by Karelia Software. This move eventually led to the shutdown of Watson as Apple’s Sherlock 3 offered similar features.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the new features that have "Sherlocked" various apps:
- Spotlight app on macOS: The new Spotlight app on macOS now bears resemblance to apps like Raycast and Launchbar. Spotlight now offers suggested apps and commands, as well as "Actions" that allow users to perform various tasks. It also lets you access items from active windows and define short strings for specific actions.
- Flight tracking via Live Activities: Apple has integrated flight tracking features into Wallet, allowing users to see and share flight status through Live Activities. This feature competes with apps like Flighty that offer similar functionalities.
- AI model integration with XCode: Apple has made ChatGPT the default assistant for Xcode and is allowing developers to integrate other AI models using API keys. This move challenges apps like Alex for Xcode, which offers similar functionalities.
- Record podcasts locally: A new Local Capture feature on the iPad allows creators to record videos using any video calling app. This feature is reminiscent of apps like Riverside, which have been providing similar services for years.
- Notes for Apple Watch: Apple has finally brought the official Notes app to Apple Watch with the WatchOS 26 update, competing with apps that offer note-taking functionalities on the platform.
- Call screening: iOS 26 introduces Call Assist, a feature that lets users handle calls from unknown numbers silently and even respond with pre-set messages. This competes with apps like Robokiller and Truecaller that offer similar call screening features.
- Parcel tracking: Wallet can now track orders using Apple Intelligence by studying emails from merchants or delivery services. This feature rivals package tracking apps that offer order tracking using tracking numbers.
As Apple continues to "Sherlock" features from third-party apps, developers may need to innovate and offer more specialized functionalities to stand out. While Apple’s implementations may appeal to a broader audience, some users may still prefer the customization and unique features offered by third-party apps. It will be interesting to see how developers respond to these changes and continue to provide value to users in the evolving tech landscape.
