Introduction

AAP 2.6 introduces an exciting developer preview feature: AI-assisted inventory generation. This feature allows you to describe your desired deployment topology in natural language, and the platform automatically generates a validated inventory file.

How It Works

Natural Language Input

Instead of manually writing complex inventory files, you can describe your environment:

``

"I need a 3-node controller cluster with an external database,

2 execution nodes, and an automation hub on a separate host.

All nodes are running RHEL 9."

`

AI-Generated Output

The platform generates a validated inventory file:

`ini

[automationcontroller]

controller1.example.com

controller2.example.com

controller3.example.com

[automationhub]

hub1.example.com

[database]

db1.example.com

[execution_nodes]

exec1.example.com

exec2.example.com

[all:vars]

ansible_user=admin

ansible_become=true

[automationcontroller:vars]

peers=execution_nodes

``

Benefits

Reduced Manual Effort

Creating inventory files for complex topologies can be error-prone. AI assistance:

  • Eliminates common syntax errors
  • Suggests optimal node grouping
  • Includes required variables automatically

Faster Onboarding

New users can set up their first AAP environment faster by describing what they need rather than learning inventory file syntax.

Validated Output

The generated inventory is validated against AAP requirements:

  • Required groups are present
  • Node assignments follow supported topologies
  • Variables meet minimum requirements

Current Limitations (Developer Preview)

As a developer preview, this feature:

  • May not support all topology configurations
  • Requires review before production use
  • Is subject to change in future releases
  • Needs connectivity to AI model service

Best Practices

1. Always review generated inventories — AI assistance helps, but human review is essential

2. Start with simple topologies — The feature works best with clear, concise descriptions

3. Iterate — Refine your description based on the generated output

4. Test in non-production — Validate generated inventories in a test environment first

Conclusion

AI-assisted inventory generation demonstrates Red Hat's commitment to making Ansible more accessible. While still in developer preview, this feature hints at a future where AI significantly reduces the barrier to entry for enterprise automation.

For more Ansible tutorials and guides, explore the [complete article collection](/articles) on Ansible Pilot.