The Shi'ido's reputation preceds them as criminals, spies, and thieves, although many have entered investigative and educational fields. Of all shape-shifters, perhaps the Shi'ido are the most accepted.

Shi'ido have limited shifting ability, a mixture of physiological and telepathic transformation. Their physical forms undergo minimal transformation. They are humanoid in shape, with large craniums, pronounced faces and thin limbs. The bulk of their mass tends to be concentrated in their body, which they then distribute throughout their form to adjust their shape.

Shi'ido physiology is remarkably flexible. Their thin bones are very dense, allowing support even in the most awkward mass configuration. Their musculature features "floating anchors," a series of tendons that can reattach themselves in different structures. The physical process is like any other, and requires excercise to perform. While maintaining a new form does not require exertion, the transformation process does. Shi'ido can only form humanoid shapes, as they are limited by their skeletal structure and mass limits.

The finishing touches of Shi'ido transformation are executed telepathically. This telepathic process does not appear to be related to the Force, and is instead a function of a neurotransmitter organ located at the base of the Shi'ido brain. The telepathic process is used to "paint" an image atop the new humanoid form, giving it a final look as envisioned by the Shi'ido. Certain species, like Hutts, who are more resistant to telepathic suggestion, cannot be fooled by the Shi'ido.

Beyond this telepathic painting, Shi'ido also use their natural telepathy to fog the minds of those around them, erasing suspicion and distracting people from asking probing questions. This is reportedly a difficult process, and maintaining a telepathic aura among many people is difficult, if those people are actively examining the Shi'ido. In large bustling crowds, however, the Shi'ido, like most species, can disappear with little effort.