What is the iPhone Shortcuts app?

The Shortcuts app (called Opdrachten on a Dutch-language iPhone) is one of the most powerful yet most underused features of your iPhone. With this app you can automate complex tasks and run them with a single tap or even fully automatically. Whether you want to simplify everyday recurring actions or have your iPhone respond to specific events, the Shortcuts app makes it possible.

Apple first introduced the Shortcuts app in iOS 12 and has expanded it considerably since then. In the latest versions of iOS the possibilities have grown enormously, so you can automate almost every aspect of your iPhone. From sending messages to controlling your smart home devices, the possibilities are practically endless.

Understanding the basics of automation

Before you start building complex automations, it is important to understand the basic concepts. The Shortcuts app works with two main components: shortcuts and automations.

Shortcuts versus automations

A shortcut is a series of actions that you start manually, for example by tapping a button or through Siri. An automation, on the other hand, is triggered automatically, for example at a certain time, by your location, or when you open a specific app.

Every shortcut consists of actions that run one after the other. You can combine actions, add conditions and use variables to create dynamic workflows. This may sound technical, but the app's visual interface makes it accessible to everyone.

Creating your first shortcut

Let's build a simple but useful shortcut step by step. We will create a shortcut that automatically sends your partner a message when you leave work.

Step 1: Open the Shortcuts app

Find the Shortcuts app on your Home Screen or in your App Library. The icon is a colored square with two overlapping rectangles. Tap the app to open it.

Step 2: Create a new shortcut

Tap the plus sign in the top right to create a new shortcut. You now enter the editor, where you can add actions. First give your shortcut a clear name by tapping the title at the top, for example "Leaving work".

Step 3: Add actions

Tap "Add Action" and search for "Send Message". Select this action and fill in the message you want to send. You can also add variables such as the current time or your estimated arrival time at home.

Step 4: Add extra actions

You can combine multiple actions. For example, also add an action to start your favorite podcast or to open navigation to home. Each action runs after the previous one.

Setting up automations

Now that you understand how shortcuts work, we can go one step further with automations. These are triggered automatically, without you having to do anything.

Location-based automation

Go to the "Automation" tab at the bottom of the app and tap the plus sign. Choose "Personal Automation" and select "Leave". You can now choose a location, such as your work address. When you leave this location, the automation is triggered.

Time-based automation

Another popular trigger is time. For example, every morning at 7 a.m. you can automatically have your calendar read aloud, open your favorite news app and turn on the lights in your home. Select "Time of Day" as the trigger and set the time you want.

App-based automation

You can also link automations to opening or closing apps. Do you always open Instagram before going to sleep, for example? Set up an automation that turns on Do Not Disturb when you open Instagram after 22:00.

Advanced automation techniques

For advanced users, the Shortcuts app offers many more possibilities. Here are some advanced techniques that take your workflows to the next level.

Working with variables

Variables are containers that store information you can use later in your shortcut. For example, you can store the current date, add days to it, and use the result in a reminder. This makes dynamic shortcuts possible that adapt to the situation.

Using conditional logic

With "If" actions you can let your shortcut decide what should happen based on certain conditions. Is it the weekend? Then a different routine than on weekdays. Is it raining? Then a reminder to take an umbrella. This logic makes your automations smart.

Integration with other apps

Many third-party apps support the Shortcuts app. Apps such as Spotify, WhatsApp, Philips Hue and many others offer special actions you can use in your shortcuts. Check in the Shortcuts app which actions are available for your favorite apps.

Practical examples of automations

To inspire you, we share some practical automations that many iPhone users use every day.

Morning routine

Create an automation that goes off at 6:30 and, one after the other: slowly turns on the lights, reads the weather forecast aloud, lists your first three calendar items, and starts your favorite morning playlist. One automation replaces five manual actions.

Activating a Focus mode

When you turn on the Work Focus, an automation can automatically move your work-related apps to the Home Screen, turn off social media notifications, and update your availability in your calendar.

Saving battery

Set up an automation that is triggered when your battery drops below 20%. It can automatically lower the brightness, turn off Background App Refresh, and warn you that you need to charge.

Tips for effective automation

To get the most out of the Shortcuts app, here are some tips from experienced users.

Start simple

Start with simple shortcuts and build up gradually. A shortcut that does not work because it is too complex is useless. Test every step before you add the next one.

Apple offers an extensive Gallery of ready-made shortcuts. You can use them right away or adapt them to your own needs. It is an excellent way to learn how others build shortcuts.

Organize your shortcuts

As you create more shortcuts, organization becomes important. Create folders for different categories such as Work, Home and Health. This keeps your library tidy and makes shortcuts faster to find.

The Shortcuts app transforms your iPhone from a smart device into a personal assistant that does exactly what you need, when you need it. With a little practice and creativity you can automate dozens of daily tasks and have more time left for the things that really matter.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Shortcuts app free to use?

Yes, the Shortcuts app is completely free and comes with iOS as standard. You do not need a subscription or extra purchases to use all its features.

Can I share shortcuts with others?

Yes, you can share shortcuts through iCloud links. The recipient can then add the shortcut to their own library. Keep in mind that some shortcuts may not work if the recipient does not have the same apps installed.

Do automations also work when my iPhone is locked?

Most automations can run in the background, but some require confirmation or need your iPhone to be unlocked. This is a security measure by Apple. For many automations you can turn off the 'Ask Before Running' option.

Does the Shortcuts app use a lot of battery?

In general, the Shortcuts app has minimal impact on your battery life. Location-based automations use a little more energy because your location is monitored, but this effect is usually negligible.

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