How to Use iPhone Shortcuts to Save Time and Stay Organized

Streamlining your daily tasks and enhancing productivity has never been easier with iPhone automations. Using the power of the iOS Shortcuts app, you can automate repetitive actions, improve focus, and optimize your routines. Below, Spencer Healey covers six practical automations that can transform how you use your iPhone, helping you save time, reduce effort, and boost efficiency.

Whether it’s automatically setting alarms for calendar events, tracking your spending without lifting a finger, or creating a more restful bedtime environment, these tips are designed to save you time and mental energy. They’re easy to set up and completely customizable to fit your unique needs.

Apple Automations in iOS

1. Automatically Set Calendar Event Alarms

Managing your schedule becomes seamless with automated calendar alarms. By simply typing “alarm” in the location field of a calendar event, your iPhone can automatically create a reminder for that event. This eliminates the need to manually set separate alarms, making sure you never miss an important meeting or appointment.

• Benefits: Prevents duplicate alarms and ensures timely notifications for your events.
• Limitations: If an event is rescheduled or canceled, the alarm won’t update automatically, requiring manual adjustments.

This automation is particularly useful for busy professionals, students, or anyone juggling multiple commitments. It simplifies time management and ensures you stay organized without extra effort.

2. Automate Budget Tracking with Apple Pay

Tracking your expenses becomes effortless when you integrate Apple Pay with budgeting apps like YNAB (You Need a Budget) or similar tools. Each time you make a transaction using Apple Pay, it’s automatically logged into your budgeting app, providing real-time updates on your spending.

• Advantages: Simplifies expense tracking and promotes mindful spending habits.
• Use Case: Perfect for individuals aiming to stick to a budget or monitor their financial health more effectively.

This automation removes the hassle of manually entering transactions, giving you a clearer and more accurate picture of your financial habits. It’s an excellent tool for anyone looking to take control of their personal finances.

3. Redirect to Your To-Do List After Distractions

Maintaining focus on your tasks is easier with a shortcut that redirects you to your to-do list app after closing specific apps. This automation can be customized to work with different focus modes, helping you stay productive without relying solely on traditional notifications.

• Key Features: Refocuses your attention on tasks after potential distractions, such as social media or entertainment apps.
• Customization: Can redirect to apps like Things, Todoist, or Reminders, depending on your workflow preferences.

This feature is particularly effective for maintaining productivity during work hours, study sessions, or any time you need to stay on track with your goals.

6 iPhone Automations to Simplify Your Daily Life

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4. Automatically Adjust Screen Orientation Lock

Switching between portrait and landscape modes can be tedious, especially when using apps that perform best in a specific orientation. This automation toggles the screen orientation lock on or off based on the app you’re using, making sure a smoother experience.

• Convenience: Optimizes usability for apps requiring landscape mode, such as video players, games, or design tools.
• Efficiency: Reduces the need for manual adjustments, saving you time and effort.

This small but impactful automation enhances your overall user experience, making your iPhone more intuitive and responsive to your needs.

5. Dim Flashlight for Nighttime Use

For nighttime tasks, a shortcut to set your flashlight to a lower brightness level can be incredibly practical. You can trigger this automation using a double back tap or the iPhone’s action button, providing just the right amount of light for your needs.

• Practicality: Offers sufficient light without disrupting your sleep or disturbing others around you.
• Flexibility: Ideal for checking on children, navigating dark spaces, or reading at night without strain.

This feature is perfect for those who value convenience and minimal disruption during late hours, making it a thoughtful addition to your nighttime routine.

6. Optimize Sleep with Super Dim Screen Settings

Improving your sleep hygiene is achievable with automations that dim your screen and adjust Apple Watch settings. By allowing accessibility features like reduced white point and red tint, you can minimize light exposure before bedtime, creating a more restful environment.

• Integration: Links seamlessly with focus modes, allowing for easy activation during your wind-down routine.
• Health Benefits: Reduces blue light exposure, supporting better sleep quality and overall well-being.

This automation is ideal for anyone looking to create a calming nighttime atmosphere and establish healthier sleep habits. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your evening routine.

Final Thoughts

These six iPhone automations demonstrate how technology can simplify your daily life, enhance productivity, and support your overall well-being. Whether you’re managing your schedule, tracking expenses, or improving your sleep routine, these tools offer practical solutions to everyday challenges. By using the iOS Shortcuts app, you can customize your iPhone to work smarter for you, saving time and effort while helping you achieve your goals.

Media Credit: Spencer Healey

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