Unveiling WWDC 2025: What Apple ‘Sherlocked’ This Year and Why It Matters for You

Apple recently unveiled exciting updates at WWDC 2025, introducing features that closely resemble those from third-party apps. This practice is known as “Sherlocking.”

The term began in the late ’90s with the launch of Apple’s Sherlock search app. Karelia Software had already released a popular app called Watson that offered advanced web search capabilities. When Apple introduced Sherlock 3 in 2002, it included many features found in Watson, which ultimately led Karelia to shut down its app.

Now, let’s look at some of the new features Apple has rolled out this year and the apps they resemble:

Spotlight Search on macOS
This revamp is reminiscent of apps like Raycast and Launchbar. While Raycast provides extensive functionality, the new Spotlight lets users search for files, apps, and shortcuts easily. One standout feature is "Actions," allowing tasks like adding events or creating GIFs directly from the search. Additionally, Spotlight can access menu items from active windows and integrates with the Intents API for developers.

Flight Tracking in Wallet
The update to Wallet includes Live Activities for tracking flights, similar to the popular app Flighty, which has previously won design awards. Users can now manage check-ins and view flight statuses without relying solely on third-party platforms.

AI Integration for Developers
Apple now makes ChatGPT the default assistant in Xcode 26, along with the ability to integrate other AI models via API keys. This rivals Alex for Xcode, which assists developers with web searches, code fixes, and more.

Podcast Recording Capabilities
On iPad, a new Local Capture feature enables users to record videos during calls for easy sharing. Riverside has provided similar functionality for years, offering a full editing suite that Apple has yet to match in power or scope.

Notes Feature for Apple Watch
The addition of the Notes app on the Apple Watch finally brings official note-taking capabilities to the device, competing with various third-party solutions.

Call Screening with iOS 26
The Call Assist feature allows the iPhone to silently screen calls from unknown numbers and display caller details. This feature resembles offerings from apps like Robokiller and Truecaller, which provide similar call screening options.

Order Tracking in Wallet
With new order tracking capabilities, Apple’s Wallet can now summarize order statuses by analyzing emails from merchants, effectively competing with existing tracking apps.

Looking Ahead
Apple’s trend of adopting features from third-party apps raises questions about their long-term viability. However, developers often find that when Apple integrates certain functionalities, it helps users recognize these features, which can lead to a preference for more specialized third-party solutions. For instance, after past “Sherlocking” incidents, apps like Bezel and Unite have evolved with new versions to offer enhanced experiences.

This cycle highlights an important dynamic in the tech industry: innovation often inspires competition, with both Apple and independent developers pushing each other toward better solutions.

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