Shortcuts are intended to make it easier to perform everyday tasks on your Apple devices. Ironic, then, that many users have taken one look at the Shortcuts app and felt that it looks rather complicated. In some respects it is: shortcuts can be so complex, they are almost like mini apps. But you don’t need to get bogged down in the finer aspects of a shortcut to make use of them. Most are simple to create, and since lots are pre-made everyone can benefit.
Why can’t I just stick to using my apps?
There’s absolutely nothing wrong in using your apps and devices in the manner to which you’ve become accustomed – that is, by launching different apps as and when you need them and by delving into the settings to make changes when required.
But if you use Shortcuts, you can get under the skin of those apps and settings and even bring the two together. You’re effectively able to cherry-pick useful bits, whether that’s a specific function or some personal data, and create powerful task automations that can be used with a tap or a Siri request. Shortcuts can become part of the Share menu too, allowing them to be run from other apps.
One thing is certain, you’re not going to lose anything by taking a look at what Shortcuts has to offer (the app is free and if you can’t find it on your Home Screen, you can download it from the App Store). At the very least, you will be able to view and select shortcuts which Apple has approved to see what’s possible – a tap or click is all that’s needed to run them. You can also take a look at how they’re coded, viewing the different blocks. Once you’ve taken a look and gone through our guide, the possibilities will become much clearer. Just take your time and explore.
Use Siri shortcut suggestions
This story is from the October 2024 edition of MacFormat UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2024 edition of MacFormat UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Mac hardware
We help to solve your hardware hassles, from interrupted upgrades to running diagnostics
Give your iPhone a whole new look in iOS 18
Make your iPhone uniquely you
iPhone 16
Apple Intelligence-ready smartphone for the rest of us
Apple Watch Series 10
10th anniversary Watch is now slimmer with an even bigger display
AirPods 4
Apple's most affordable AirPods remain a brilliant buy
We. HEAR Pro
Room-filling sound from this stylish wireless speaker
HiDock H1
An impressive 11-port AI audio dock for conferencers
Adobe Premiere Elements 2025
Create eye-catching videos for sharing on social media
Photoshop 2024
Your imagination is the limit with this AI-powered pixel creator
Wispr Flow
Bring the power of AI dictation to DMs, documents and Discord chats