The 9to5Mac team is continuing its string of claimed iOS 14 leaks with word that Apple’s new software could let you run small parts of apps to accomplish tasks when the full app isn’t installed. The “Clips” framework would react to certain actions, such as scanning a QR code, by bringing up a card with just enough of an app’s native interface to play a video, book a restaurant or otherwise get things done. In theory, this should be more elegant than pointing you to the App Store or a website.
If you scan such a code on an app’s website, you could effectively try out its featureset via an on-screen “card.” Which features are shared via Clips is entirely up to developers 9to5Mac says they can specify which part of the app will be downloaded to a user’s smartphone or tablet. While this has not been explicitly confirmed yet, we wouldn’t be surprised if closing the card, or otherwise ending the task eliminates the data from your device.
It’s worth pointing out that the Clips feature as a whole hasn’t received an official announcement from Apple. While we have no reason to doubt 9to5Mac’s claims, software development is hardly a linear process. If Clips isn’t ready in time for the official launch of iOS 14, it may be pushed back to a later date, or it could be scrapped entirely. Still, we hope that doesn’t happen — it sounds like an incredibly useful feature for anyone that cares about mitigating app bloat.
There’s no guarantee Apple will implement app snippets, although the company is reportedly testing the feature with big names that include Sony, DoorDash, OpenTable, Yelp and YouTube.
