Tired of Tap-Tap-Tappin' Your Way Through Your iPhone? Enter Shortcuts: Your New BFF in Efficiency (and Maybe a Little Laziness)
Let's face it, folks, we all have those moments where we stare at our iPhones, willing them to just read our minds. You know, those times you open the same 3 apps in a specific order, just to check the weather, grab a coffee coupon, and send a grumpy text about rush hour traffic (we've all been there). Well, fret no more! Because Apple, in its infinite wisdom, has bestowed upon us the Shortcuts app: a productivity (and laziness) powerhouse waiting to be unleashed.
But What Exactly Are Shortcuts?
Imagine this: a single tap (or a sassy voice command, because Siri is always down for some sass) that performs a whole sequence of actions you normally do with all that tap-tap-tappin'. Think of it like creating a mini-robot butler for your phone. Need a morning routine shortcut that blasts your favorite pump-up song, opens the news app, and orders your usual breakfast because #adultingishard? Shortcuts can do that. Want a "Netflix and Chill" shortcut that dims the lights, turns off notifications, and launches your favorite streaming app? Shortcuts can do that too (although, we can't guarantee it won't judge you a little).
How to Become a Shortcut Sensei: A Crash Course
Creating shortcuts is surprisingly easy, even for those of us who struggle to remember our lunch plans. Here's the gist:
- Open the Shortcuts app (it comes pre-installed on your iPhone).
- Tap the "+" button in the top right corner. This is where the magic happens.
- Give your shortcut a snazzy name. Descriptive is good, but feel free to unleash your inner comedian (Shortcut names like "Procrastination Station" and "Weekend Warrior" are highly encouraged).
- Now comes the fun part: building your shortcut! The Shortcuts app has a ton of built-in actions you can choose from, like opening apps, sending texts, playing music, and even controlling your smart home devices.
- Tap "Add Action" and browse through the categories to find what you need. You can even chain multiple actions together to create a super-powered shortcut.
- Customize it! Want your shortcut to only work at a certain time of day? No problem. Want it to send a sassy notification before it performs its tasks? You got it.
Pro Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment! The possibilities are endless.
Frequently Asked Shortcut Questions:
How to make a shortcut open a specific app?
Easy peasy! Just search for "Open App" in the actions list and choose the app you want.
How to add a voice command to a shortcut?
Once you've created your shortcut, tap the three dots (...) and choose "Add to Siri." Then, record your sassy (or serious) voice command.
How to run a shortcut from the Home Screen?
Create your shortcut and then tap the share button. Choose "Add to Home Screen" to create a shortcut icon.
How to find pre-made shortcuts?
The Shortcuts app has a whole gallery of pre-made shortcuts you can explore. Just tap the "Gallery" tab.
How to impress my friends with my shortcut mastery?
Whip up a crazy-complex shortcut that does something unexpected and amazing. Bonus points for theatrics!
