Short Circuit is an AI chatbot app for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS that offers a premium ChatGPT experience powered by GPT-4. It allows users to customize personas, set creative modes, and ask questions using Siri or Apple Shortcuts.
Unlike many GPT apps, Short Circuit prioritizes privacy by disabling OpenAI training on your data. The app supports fact-checking, and for tech-savvy users, it also allows connection via personal OpenAI API keys. With a playful mascot named “Shorty,” Short Circuit offers both functional depth and personality flair in one tight package.
| Short Circuit Review Summary | |
| Performance Score | A |
| Content/Output Quality | Playful & Smart |
| Interface | Clean, Chat-Focused |
| AI Technology |
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| Purpose of Tool | Provide a flexible, privacy-first ChatGPT experience across Apple devices |
| Compatibility | iOS, iPadOS, macOS |
| Pricing | Free + In-App Purchases: Starter $2.99, Pro $5.99, Premium $14.99, Lifetime $29.99 |
Who is Best for Using Short Circuit?
- Students: They are using it to brainstorm essays, solve equations, and get fast, casual explanations with minimal typing.
- Writers: They are using it to roleplay dialogue with custom personas and beat creative blocks through conversational flow.
- Professionals: They are using it to get instant answers, summarize research, and work smarter through Siri Shortcuts.
- Tech Tinkerers: They are using it with their OpenAI key to maximize functionality while keeping control over privacy.
- Everyday Users: They are using it as a smarter, more personal Siri replacement for day-to-day questions and interactions.
Short Circuit Key Features
| GPT-4 Chat Support | Custom AI Personas | Siri & Apple Shortcuts Integration |
| Fact-Checking Mode | Lifetime Unlock with OpenAI Key | Voice Input Support |
| macOS, iPad, iPhone Compatibility | No-Tracking Privacy Settings | Works Without Account |
| Quick Personality Switching |
Is Short Circuit Free?
Yes, Short Circuit is free to download with a basic tier. In-app purchases unlock additional features and personalization:
Short Circuit Pricing Plans
- Starter – $2.99: Basic premium access, ideal for casual users.
- Pro – $5.99: Enhanced access and chat speed, unlocks more Shorty capabilities.
- Premium – $14.99: Highest subscription tier with full feature access, best for heavy users.
- Lifetime – $29.99 (One-Time Purchase): Unlocks all core features forever, requires personal OpenAI API key for ongoing use.
Short Circuit Pros & Cons
Pros
- Cute, customizable chat experience
- GPT-4 support with privacy-first design
- One-time lifetime payment option
- Siri and Shortcuts integration
- Works across Apple ecosystem
Cons
- Requires OpenAI API key for lifetime use
- No Android version
- Feature access varies by tier
- May lack advanced productivity tools
- Not ideal for enterprise environments
FAQs
Does Short Circuit use GPT-4?
Yes, it uses GPT-4 under the hood and gives you full access through a clean, responsive UI.
Can I use Short Circuit with my own OpenAI key?
Yes, especially with the lifetime unlock plan—you just plug in your own key and keep chatting.
Is Short Circuit safe and private?
Yes, it’s designed to disable OpenAI training on your conversations, prioritizing user privacy.
What devices does it support?
Short Circuit works on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It’s built for Apple users across all devices.
What’s special about the Lifetime option?
For $29.99, you get full app access forever and use your own OpenAI key to avoid recurring costs.
