How to Use Shortcuts in IOS
The Shortcuts app is a powerful automation tool that can help you optimize your life and save a lot of time on your day to day tasks. In the video above, I cover some of the shortcuts and resources I used to learn more about them.
What are shortcuts?
Shortcuts let you create a script that automatically launches a series of tasks by simply asking Siri or pressing a button. For example, if I say “Hey Siri, it’s time to work,” the Work Time script shown below will automatically start. Do Not Disturb will be on until 5:00 PM and Siri will say, “Another day, another dollar!”
Shortcuts can also be configured to be triggered by specific criteria, rather than by pressing a button or via Siri. Earlier, when I was still driving to work, I had two automatics set up when I left for work and when I left work. These scripts will run based on the location of my phone.
These are very simple examples of what labels are capable of. More complex scenarios can have dozens of steps and can be used for things like generating a generic QR code for your Wi-Fi or automating your entire morning routine . If you’re curious about how to create your own shortcuts, Apple’s in-depth guide to shortcuts is a great place to start.
Where to find shortcuts
Luckily, you don’t need to create shortcuts yourself. The app has a gallery page on which Apple has provided a number of ready-made shortcuts. Sites like the Shortcuts subreddit, Shortcut Gallery, and Sharecuts are also great places to find powerful and useful shortcuts.
So start thinking about your daily tasks. Which ones would save you time if your phone was set to execute them automatically? Will your mom pick on you so much if she gets the answer “I love you!” SMS from you every few days?
Happy automation.