Introduction

My journey into computer magic began in the early 1980s with the Sinclair ZX81. I subsequently created effects using the Sinclair ZX Spectrum, the Psion 3a, and a Sharp pocket computer.

For the most part, creating computer magic was a solitary pursuit, with only a few others developing effects. Notable exceptions include Peter Jeffries and Alex Elmsley.

I was fortunate to have my work published in Abra, the world's only magical weekly, and in Repro magic's dealer magazine, Club 71. In the latter, I documented an effect where the computer placed an item in a list based on a ‘secret’ key press from the performer. Owners of Digital Force Bag will recognise this principle, but I am happy to believe that the creators of DFB devised their approach independently.

Over time, writing applications became more challenging for hobbyists, and my interest waned. As a result, I stored all my original notes and ideas away.

Smartphones are genuinely magical devices, but application development has largely remained beyond reach, confined to talented individuals like Marc Kerstein and Joshua Riley.

This changed with Apple Shortcuts. Despite some limitations, commercial releases by performers such as Mark Lemon and David Jonathan have demonstrated that Apple Shortcuts are a powerful tool for magic.

A few months ago, I rediscovered that old box of computer magic to review everything with fresh eyes, almost 30 years later. I hoped it would inspire new ideas and effects.

Some of it proved useful. Some of it didn’t. More importantly, it revived my interest in computer magic, and this email series is the result.

Each email will include at least one shortcut to download, complete with explanations.

We’ll begin tomorrow with our first look at triggers and inputs. See you then.
A few months ago, I rediscovered that old box of computer magic to review everything in a new light, nearly 30 years later. I hoped it would inspire some fresh ideas and effects.

Some of it was useful. Some of it wasn’t. More importantly, it rejuvenated my interest in computer magic, and this email series is the result.

Every email will contain at least one shortcut to download, which is fully explained.

We’ll start tomorrow with our first look at triggers and inputs. See you then.