Six built-in iPhone shortcuts can automate daily tasks, reduce friction, and quietly give you back time without altering your typical phone usage. These shortcuts, accessible through the Shortcuts app, allow users to streamline repetitive actions and enhance their iPhone experience.
The shortcuts app, introduced with iOS 12, enables users to create a sequence of actions that can be triggered in various ways – through Siri, a tap on the Home Screen, or even automatically based on location or time of day. While the app offers a vast library of pre-built shortcuts, its true power lies in the ability to customize and create your own.
Here are six examples of iPhone shortcuts that can save you time each day:
- Text Last Image: This shortcut quickly sends the last photo in your camera roll to a specified contact. it’s ideal for sharing recent pictures with family or friends without navigating through the Photos app.
- Create PDF from Images: Easily convert multiple images into a single PDF document. This is useful for compiling photos for reports, presentations, or sharing documents.
- Call Home/Work: A simple shortcut to quickly dial your home or work number with a single tap or Siri command.
- Get Directions Home/Work: Instantly launch Maps with directions to your home or work address. This eliminates the need to manually enter the destination each time.
- Start My Commute: This shortcut can send a message to a contact letting them know you’ve started your commute, along with an estimated time of arrival based on traffic conditions. Learn more about setting up commute shortcuts from Apple Support.
- Battery Status: Quickly check the battery percentage of your iPhone and connected bluetooth devices.
To find and use these shortcuts, open the Shortcuts app and explore the Gallery tab. You can also create custom shortcuts by tapping the “+” button and adding actions from the app’s extensive library. Shortcuts can be further enhanced by using automation, allowing them to run automatically based on triggers like time, location, or when connecting to a specific Wi-Fi network.
The Shortcuts app is a powerful tool for iPhone users looking to optimize their daily routines and reclaim valuable time. By automating repetitive tasks, users can focus on more crucial activities and enjoy a more efficient mobile experience.
The post originally appeared on TechRepublic.
