Apple Shortcuts: A Powerful Tool for Boosting Efficiency

8 minutes read

By Evelyn Robinson

Apple Shortcuts: A Powerful Tool for Boosting Efficiency

What Are Shortcuts?

Apple Shortcuts is a powerful automation tool that allows users to perform a series of complex tasks with simple operations. Users can create their own shortcuts or use pre-made ones shared by Apple and other users.

Main Functions of Shortcuts

Automating Tasks: Shortcuts can automatically execute a series of actions, such as sending messages, playing music, adjusting device settings, and more.
Integrating Apps: Shortcuts can integrate functions from multiple apps, enabling cross-app operations.
Personalized Settings: Users can customize shortcuts according to their needs, catering to personalized usage scenarios.

Example 1: Sending Estimated Time of Arrival Home

This shortcut can be achieved through the following steps:
Use the Maps app to get the current location.
Calculate the estimated time of arrival home.
Generate a message containing the estimated arrival time.
Send the message to a preset contact.

Example 2: Quickly Finding GIFs

With this shortcut, users can quickly find and share GIF images:
Open the GIPHY app.
Enter keywords to search for related GIFs.
Select and share the appropriate GIF.

Example 3: Creating a Music Playlist

This shortcut helps users quickly create a playlist of favorite songs:
Open the Music app.
Select the top 25 most played songs.
Create and save the playlist.

How to Start Using Shortcuts

Install the App: The Shortcuts app is pre-installed on iOS 13 and above. Users with lower versions need to download it from the App Store.
Browse the Shortcuts Library: Browse and add pre-made shortcuts in the Shortcuts app.
Create Custom Shortcuts: Create and edit shortcuts according to your needs.