PlayInfoBox

Home /Utilities /How to Build an Automation in the iPhone Shortcuts App

How to Build an Automation in the iPhone Shortcuts App

Tap through each step to see exactly how to build an automation in Shortcuts.

  1. Open the Shortcuts app

    Launch the built-in "Shortcuts" app on your iPhone. If you can't find it, search for it or check your app library.

  2. Create a new automation from the Automation tab

    Tap the "Automation" tab at the bottom, then tap the "+" button in the top right and choose "Create Personal Automation."

  3. Choose the trigger

    Pick from a wide range of triggers β€” arriving at a location, a set time of day, opening a specific app, connecting to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and more.

  4. Add the actions to run

    Add one or more actions to run when the trigger happens β€” turning on Do Not Disturb, sending a message, setting a reminder, opening an app, and combining several in sequence.

  5. Set the "Ask Before Running" option

    On the final screen, turning off "Ask Before Running" makes the automation run silently once the trigger condition is met; leaving it on shows a confirmation notification every time.

  6. Save and test the automation

    Tap "Done" to save it, then trigger the condition in real life to confirm it behaves the way you expect.

What automations can actually do for you

Bundling a repetitive manual task into a trigger and a set of actions means things like turning on Do Not Disturb or sending a reminder can happen automatically the moment you arrive somewhere or a set time rolls around.

Also worth knowing: accessibility features

If you're interested in other ways to make your iPhone more convenient or accessible, it's worth exploring built-in accessibility tools like VoiceOver alongside automations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn off the notification that pops up every time an automation runs?

Yes. When creating the automation, turn off "Ask Before Running" so it runs quietly in the background without a confirmation prompt each time.

Can I edit or delete an automation later?

Yes. In the Automation tab of the Shortcuts app, tap an automation to edit its trigger or actions, or swipe left on it to delete it.