MetaGrid have recently introduced an all-new AI Builder function to their touchscreen-based control surface App, allowing users to create their own custom control layouts using text prompts. With the latest update installed, MetaGrid Pro will now respond to users’ input by creating fully working grid layouts and taking care of shortcut creation, icons and labelling.
We put MetaGrid Pro to the test in SOS November 2020, and although its functionality has evolved significantly since then, the core principles remain the same. You can check out out review here.
AI Builder
Unlike generic AI tools, AI Builder works using information from the user’s actual system, reading any relevant menu commands and verified keyboard shortcuts from supported applications, along with any Apple Shortcuts and Keyboard Maestro macros. The function then uses Claude via API to interpret user intent, with all generated actions checked against a live catalogue of available commands. Actions that exist on the system are marked as verified, while anything unconfirmed is flagged for users to review. The process is designed to ensure that any generated controls reflect what actually works, rather than suggesting actions that may not exist!
Those wanting to learn more about how AI Builder verifies actions against real system data, MetaGrid have produced a detailed technical paper which is available here.
In practice, the new functions allow composers and producers to quickly build control layouts that reflect how their sessions are actually structured. For example, composers working with a large orchestral templates can generate layouts that offer articulation switching across multiple instruments, as well as providing controls for track visibility, expression and key mixing parameters — all accessible from a single interface. Producers can easily generate grids designed for hands-on plug-in control, routing and macro chains, removing the need to navigate multiple windows or menus to carry out common tasks.
AI Builder also extends beyond the DAW: users can generate controls for file management, system actions or any supporting tools used throughout a production session, reducing their reliance on keyboard shortcuts and repetitive clicks.
There's More!
Alongside the headline AI Builder feature, the latest version of MetaGrid Pro (1.7) also introduces the following new features:
- Eight new button styles.
- New macOS Commands action with 80+ native macOS commands.
- Cubase Plugin Manager integration.
- AI-powered Cubase plugin button generation.
- New Integration Catalog in MetaServer.
- Completely rebuilt MetaServer for Windows.
- Native Windows MIDI Services support (no LoopMIDI required on supported systems).
- Improved Cubase MIDI Remote support on Windows.
- Rewritten connectivity engine.
- Performance improvements and numerous fixes.
Compatibility
MetaGrid Pro is supported on iPads running iPadOS 15.6 or later, and Macs running macOS 12.5 and above.
Pricing & Availability
MetaGrid Pro is available now from Apple’s App Store and Mac App Store. It is available as a free download, with optional upgrades that expand its capabilities. The free version includes a fully editable grid and core tools to build and test control layouts. Paid plans then unlock unlimited grids, advanced macros, integrations with DAWs and other software, and the ability to import, export and share setups.
Prices are as follows:
- Monthly Subscription: $4.99 / month
- Annual Subscription: $49.99 / year
- Perpetual License: $199
