Apple Shortcuts

Name: Apple Shortcuts
Availability: InStock

Native iOS and macOS automation for Apple device workflows

Free

Visit Apple Shortcuts

About Apple Shortcuts

Apple Shortcuts is the completely free, native automation tool built into every iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Unlike Zapier, Make, or IFTTT (which cost $2.49-30/month), Shortcuts is 100% free with unlimited automations. It excels at device-specific triggers: time of day, location arrival/departure, app opening, charging, NFC tags, and more. Create personal automations like 'Turn on Low Power Mode when battery hits 20%' or 'Text partner when leaving work.' Shortcuts integrates deeply with iOS apps, Siri, and Apple services (Messages, Calendar, Photos, Health). The 2025 iOS 26 update added 25+ new actions and enhanced automation capabilities. Limitations: Apple ecosystem only, no cross-platform or web service automations like Zapier. Perfect for Apple users wanting device automation without subscriptions; use Zapier/Make for cloud service integrations.

Key Features

Native iOS and macOS automation (pre-installed, free)

Time, location, app, and activity-based triggers

Deep integration with Apple apps (Messages, Calendar, Photos, Health, Music)

Siri voice control for hands-free automation

NFC tag triggers for physical automation

Shortcuts Gallery with ready-made templates

Personal automations: run based on events without user confirmation

iOS 26 update (2025): 25+ new actions and enhanced features

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Completely free with unlimited automations
• Pre-installed on all Apple devices (no download/setup)
• Deep iOS/macOS integration unavailable to third-party apps
• Siri voice control for hands-free execution
• Perfect for device-specific automations (battery, location, time)
• 2025 updates bring powerful new capabilities

Cons

• Apple ecosystem only—no Windows, Android, or web support
• No cloud service automations (no Slack, Gmail, Trello integrations)
• Steeper learning curve than IFTTT for non-technical users
• Limited third-party app support compared to Zapier/Make
• Cannot automate cross-platform workflows

Best For

iPhone and Mac users wanting free device automation Personal productivity (morning routines, commute triggers) Apple ecosystem power users Anyone wanting Siri-controlled automations