TYPO3 v14: Building a System for Community-Driven AI Integrations

MCP (Model Context Protocol) is an exciting component we are considering. This concept could play an important role in AI integration, as it enables modular and extensible content processing. We are exploring how MCP could serve as a bridge between TYPO3 and various AI services.

Currently, a small team is working on a conceptual framework that considers the complexity of TYPO3 and identifies relevant use cases. This work is essential because TYPO3, with its diverse features, presents some particular challenges:

Workspace Support

AI tools must understand which workspace they are working in and how changes affect different versions of content. The framework must ensure that AI-generated or AI-modified content correctly integrates into the workspace workflow.

Multi-Tree and Multi-Language Environments

TYPO3's strength is managing complex website structures with multiple page trees and languages. AI integration must consider this complexity and be able to work contextually, for example, when translating content or adapting content for different target audiences.

Permissions

Security is paramount in TYPO3. AI tools may only access content for which the respective user also has permissions. The framework must respect and enforce these permission structures.

Context Definition for AI

One of the biggest challenges is defining the available context for AI systems. The framework must determine the relevant information and ensure that AI tools have enough context to deliver meaningful results without exposing sensitive information or data.

Interfaces for Data Extraction

Efficient and secure interfaces for extracting data and content are crucial. These must be performant while respecting TYPO3's data structures and hierarchies.

Privacy and Security Aspects

When integrating AI systems, privacy and security aspects must be considered. The framework will provide guidelines and mechanisms to ensure secure data handling.

Once the initial concept is more mature, we plan to open the initiative to more contributors. We aim to enable an AI ecosystem that is extensible, integrable, and transparent for developers, integrators, and editors alike.

Why Community Participation is Important

The diversity of the TYPO3 community and its different use cases and experiences is an enormous advantage. Developers from agencies, freelancers, and enterprise teams bring various perspectives essential for a robust framework.

Editors and content managers can provide valuable insights into practical use cases: Where would AI help? Which workflows could be optimized? What concerns exist from a user perspective?

The Critical Role of UI/UX Design

One of our key priorities is creating a unified and user-friendly interface for backend users. AI integration should feel natural and intuitive, not overwhelming or fragmented. This means involving our UX team becomes essential once we have clarity about possible implementations. We want to ensure that AI features are seamlessly integrated into existing workflows, maintaining TYPO3's reputation for a well-designed backend experience. The challenge lies in presenting powerful AI capabilities in a way that enhances productivity without adding complexity to daily editorial tasks.

We're looking forward to collaborating with the community. Share your thoughts, questions, and ideas with us. If you'd like to dive in, please introduce yourself and let us know what you're working on or what brought you here.

Visit us on TYPO3 Slack in the channel #typo3-core-ai

There you can:

• Share your experiences with AI tools in TYPO3 projects
• Discuss use cases you'd like to see supported
• Ask questions about the planned architecture
• Stay informed about current developments
• Actively contribute to concept development

A Look into the Future

This initiative is an essential step for TYPO3's future. As we plan for TYPO3 v14, AI integration will be an exciting field for innovation and improvement. It's important to emphasize that these are plans and concepts – we cannot make concrete commitments now.

The AI landscape is evolving quickly, and TYPO3 wants to respond thoughtfully and flexibly. By focusing on interfaces and standards, we're creating a foundation that will be sustainable in the long term, regardless of how individual AI technologies develop.

We invite you to be part of this exciting journey. Your expertise, use cases, and visions are crucial for the success of this initiative. Together, we can prepare TYPO3 for the AI era while preserving the values distinguishing TYPO3: flexibility, security, and extensibility.

Do you have questions or suggestions about this article? Discuss with us on Slack in #typo3-core-ai or contact the TYPO3 team through the usual channels.