# Stephen Robles --- ## Apple Intelligence in Shortcuts ### Overview: Apple Intelligence comes to Shortcuts # Overview: Apple Intelligence comes to Shortcuts

With the release of iOS 18, Apple Intelligence is now integrated directly into the Shortcuts app, unlocking a new level of powerful automation. You can now use AI to summarize documents, transcribe audio, generate content, and analyze images right on your device. This release makes it easier than ever to build intelligent, context-aware workflows that save you time and effort 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## Summarize anything You can now use Apple Intelligence to quickly understand long documents and articles without reading them in full. Run shortcuts on PDFs, websites, or Apple News articles to generate concise summaries and lists of key points. You can even create an automation to automatically summarize email attachments as they arrive, delivering the key information directly to you in a notification. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bda9db18f727388f90ca20b8780fe8c33f757185d3164543441effa41af3cb19_55af7755.jpg) Podcast shortcut: [https://shortcut.bot/47qLr08](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVRXMXNnRVRyR0tRUTZiMklpR3d6TU92d3UyQXxBQ3Jtc0tuNjBqdU5pN0I0NWFqNERyRmkydGVJTkVaMlRwd0Q0RVFSLUpadE1oenJqV3dVQ3lsNUFweTBtelNUSDRHWEJpZ2Utdkw2X2k1ODlDN21vZGE5MmhzZnRTQnBFVkVtbXRXc3BEeFdkYWJUalRHVXF6MA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F47qLr08&v=KNvfXi8RANY) ## Generate and organize content Turn your rough ideas into polished content with just a tap. Dictate your thoughts and have them automatically organized into structured bullet points, or transform a simple note into a professionally written email, complete with a subject line. You can also repurpose existing content, such as a web article, into multiple social media posts and a full blog post, all from a single shortcut. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c0abe27881264e4665477dcb56ef56b00e8794929cad809b6b416efd6419076e_41acb0d5.jpg) ## Advanced image and audio understanding Apple Intelligence brings powerful media analysis capabilities to your shortcuts. You can now transcribe audio files into text and then generate a summary, or ask for detailed descriptions of what's in an image. This enables advanced workflows like automatically sorting photos based on whether they contain people or extracting a full color palette with hex codes from any picture. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bfc76a9ba45b0daa59e6748223bbf1dd938887eade07b2cdbfd6ec2ae717bb02_137a245e.jpg) ## Create and automate with AI Build entirely new kinds of automations powered by AI. You can generate unique wallpapers for your iPhone using **Image Playground**, create a conversational assistant with memory that keeps track of your conversation history, or set up a folder action on your Mac to automatically sort documents based on their content. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/516c120bb9cd0d8249d1a9d5c65b73574488975149f2c0397e26bcdc749073a5_734b60f9.jpg) ## Scrape and interpret web data Shortcuts can now intelligently extract and format information from websites and APIs, even without a formal structure. Save recipes from social media into a clean format in Notes, find out where a movie is streaming, or get a consolidated schedule for your favorite sports teams from their websites. Apple Intelligence can even parse complex API data to pull out exactly what you need, like the high temperature for the day from a weather API. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b6e844a684a68a65829f1a6572f4b4d70d836e3ea120f4ad60eab28e91e39cbf_0caaa7a9.jpg) ## Other improvements - The new **Use Model** action provides a unified interface for on-device AI, Private Cloud Compute, and third-party models like ChatGPT. - Shortcuts can now be configured to output specific data types like Booleans (yes/no), making it easier to build conditional logic. - Image generation is now a native action with **Create Image**, integrating Image Playground directly into your workflows. ## Summary This release transforms what's possible with Shortcuts by integrating Apple Intelligence directly into the app's core functions. You can now build more powerful, flexible, and intelligent automations that understand context, summarize information, and interact with data in new ways. These tools allow you to save time by automating complex tasks across your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Generating Wallpapers with AI # Deep dive into Generating Wallpapers with AI You can now generate custom wallpapers on the fly using the new **Create Image** action for Shortcuts. This feature leverages Apple Intelligence's Image Playground to transform simple text prompts into unique, high-quality images, giving you a powerful and personalized way to refresh your device's look with just a tap. 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## What's new The new **Create Image** action is now available in the **Apple Intelligence** category within the Shortcuts app. This allows you to build workflows that generate images based on text prompts. By combining this with the **Set Wallpaper** action, you can create a seamless process for creating and applying new wallpapers to your Lock Screen and Home Screen without ever leaving the app.

#### [Link to Install the Shortcut](https://www.icloud.com/shortcuts/123a5b1e846c4ea08b606d8b418543f2) ## How to use this feature 1. Create a new shortcut and add a **Choose from Menu** action with different wallpaper themes (e.g., Ocean, Forest, Mountains). 2. Under each menu item, add the **Create Image** action found in the **Apple Intelligence** section. 3. Pass the theme text (e.g., 'Forest') as the input for the **Create Image** action. 4. Add the **Set Wallpaper** action and set the 'Image' parameter to the output of the **Create Image** action. 5. Run the shortcut, select a theme, and watch as your new AI-generated wallpaper is automatically applied. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3698a4b790ffe369a6925f2fcf7a1be4ae30a4a30e0178c48e8e602d324f99e6_fdb72d46.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Wallpaper Creation:** Generate a new wallpaper with a single tap by running a pre-configured shortcut from your Home Screen or widget. - **Theme-Based Generation:** Set up a menu of your favorite themes to quickly generate wallpapers that match your mood or aesthetic. - **Automated Updates:** Pair this shortcut with an automation to automatically change your wallpaper at a specific time of day or when a Focus Mode is activated. - **Custom Prompts:** Use the **Ask for Input** action to enter a unique, custom prompt each time you run the shortcut for limitless creative possibilities. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8088a0bc55b1329df8ee9796ecd6ec5a3d671039a8fdea2e869adb300b8bec8c_e8f74785.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results, specify the image dimensions in your prompt to match your iPhone's screen. For example, add 'Generate an image exactly 2796 x 1290 pixels of...' to the beginning of your prompt. This ensures the generated image fits your screen perfectly. You can also add more descriptive words to your prompts, like 'a serene ocean view at sunset' or 'a misty forest in the early morning,' to get more specific results. ### Summary Generating wallpapers with AI brings the power of Image Playground directly into your automation workflows. It offers a fast and incredibly flexible way to create personalized backgrounds for your device, either on-demand or through fully automated triggers. This feature transforms your iPhone from a static device into a dynamic canvas that can change to fit your style in seconds. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into summarizing documents, web pages, and news articles # Deep dive into summarizing documents, web pages, and news articles With the introduction of Apple Intelligence, your device can now help you process information faster than ever. The new summarization capabilities built into the Shortcuts app allow you to quickly get the gist of long documents, web pages, and news articles without leaving the app you're in. This feature saves you valuable time by transforming lengthy content into concise, easy-to-digest summaries. 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## What's new This release integrates Apple Intelligence directly into the Shortcuts app through a powerful new **Use Model** action. This allows you to create custom shortcuts that can receive text, files, or web content and generate summaries on demand. You can run these shortcuts from the **Share Sheet**, an automation, or directly within the Shortcuts app to get key takeaways, bullet points, or a simple paragraph summary of almost any content. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8ffa5a54684eec42006d00eb35370ba1970412a2ffce1aaa69dd5f4388388e76_bafe858c.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Find a document, such as a PDF, in the **Files** app or a webpage in Safari. 2. Tap the **Share** button to open the **Share Sheet**. 3. Scroll down and select a summarization shortcut, such as **Summarize Doc AI**. 4. The shortcut will automatically process the content using Apple Intelligence. 5. A window will appear showing the generated summary of your document or article. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1e3826fd62d7657bad1d45a38abf7e9b3f4e4e158f9b0c1ded0e80d4ca099507_8365ac00.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Summarize any document:** Instantly create summaries of PDFs, text files, and other documents directly from the **Share Sheet**. - **Get key points from articles:** Quickly understand the main ideas of news stories in **Apple News** or articles on the web without having to read the full text. - **Automate email summaries:** Set up an automation to automatically summarize email attachments as soon as they arrive in your inbox, giving you the essential information right away. - **Extract specific information:** Customize shortcuts to pull out specific details, like recipes from a social media post or key points from a research paper, and save them directly to your notes. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature You can customize the prompt inside your summarization shortcuts to get different results. For example, you can ask for a 'three-sentence summary', 'a list of key takeaways in bullet points', or 'a single paragraph overview'. You can also choose which AI model to use—**On-Device** for speed and privacy, **Private Cloud Compute** for more complex tasks, or even an external model like **ChatGPT** for longer content. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b556a8638db0e3b298044b8e93367e0f800ab2a56a36d9112329bf034dcb2c58_c09cf3c2.jpg) ## Summary The new summarization feature in Shortcuts, powered by Apple Intelligence, is a game-changer for productivity. It allows you to quickly distill large amounts of information from various sources into manageable summaries. By integrating this capability directly into your workflow via the **Share Sheet** and automations, you can stay informed more efficiently than ever before. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into pulling colors and hex codes from images # Deep dive into pulling colors and hex codes from images You can now automatically extract the predominant colors and their corresponding hex codes from any image directly within a shortcut. This new capability uses Apple Intelligence to analyze a photo and generate a list of its primary colors, turning your device into a powerful, on-the-go color palette tool. It eliminates the need to manually use a color picker in a separate design application, streamlining creative workflows for designers, developers, and hobbyists. 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## What's new With the new Apple Intelligence actions in Shortcuts, you can now pass an image as an input to the **Use Cloud model** action. By writing a simple prompt, you can instruct the AI to analyze the visual data and return specific information, such as a list of colors and their hex values. This feature can be triggered from the **Share Sheet** on any image, whether it's in your Photos library, on a website, or in another app, making it incredibly versatile. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4fe68fbbb00256129e0c879ce59ea2f0571027fe29a6c3b2418f0bdf5d8cc927_e409119a.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Create a new shortcut and set it to receive **Images and Media** from the **Share Sheet**. 2. Add the **Use Cloud model** action from the Apple Intelligence category. 3. In the prompt field, instruct the AI what to do. For example: "Give me the hex code values of the predominant colors in this photo." 4. Ensure the **Shortcut Input** (which will be your image) is passed into the prompt. 5. Add a **Show Result** action at the end to display the list of colors generated by the AI. 6. Run the shortcut from the share sheet of any image to see the result. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a2cd87c63407d6c57567c26f4aae5fea83c23447c1ccd38ace2f3eeed80e8e45_dc1ff488.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Color Palettes:** Generate a palette from any visual inspiration, like a photograph, a piece of art, or a screenshot. - **Hex Code Extraction:** Get precise hex code values for each identified color, ready to be used in web design, graphic design, or other creative projects. - **Descriptive Color Names:** The AI often provides common names for the colors (e.g., Sky Blue, Forest Green), making the palette easier to understand at a glance. - **Workflow Integration:** The output text can be passed to other actions, allowing you to automatically create a new note with your color palette, copy it to the clipboard, or even use the colors in another AI-driven action. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For more specific results, adjust your prompt. You can ask for a certain number of colors, such as, "List the five most prominent colors and their hex codes." You can also modify the shortcut to automatically copy the resulting list to your clipboard for even faster use in other apps. ## Summary Pulling colors from images with Apple Intelligence is a simple yet powerful tool for anyone working with visuals. It streamlines the process of capturing color inspiration by integrating it directly into your existing iOS workflow via Shortcuts. This feature turns a once-manual task into an automated, single-tap action. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Extracting key points from book pages # Deep dive into Extracting key points from book pages Digitizing insights from physical books just became effortless. The new **Book Points AI** shortcut uses Apple Intelligence to transform photos of book pages into concise, meaningful notes. This feature solves the problem of manually transcribing quotes and summaries, allowing you to quickly capture the essence of what you're reading and save it directly to your notes. 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## What's new This release introduces the **Book Points AI** shortcut, a powerful workflow that streamlines the process of capturing information from physical books. When you run the shortcut, you can select multiple photos of book pages. The shortcut then uses the built-in **Extract Text from Image** action for each photo and sends the combined text to Apple Intelligence. A custom prompt instructs the AI to pull out the most meaningful quotes and key points, which are then automatically appended to a designated note in your Apple Notes app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5bfdb8a7166628d0a014c3781d5a2fc844568df94d2568f73f1adc018262f29f_236d3a36.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Take clear photos of the book pages you want to summarize. 2. Open the Shortcuts app and run the **Book Points AI** shortcut. 3. From the photo picker that appears, select the images of the pages you captured. 4. The shortcut will process the images, extract the text, and use AI to generate a summary of key points. 5. Once complete, the extracted quotes and points will be automatically added to your specified note in Apple Notes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d2bfbdfe42c30a14067aec14f4613fcf6f28454204fbd587e2b83e6078725a18_e2342557.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Bulk Processing**: Select and process multiple photos of book pages in a single run. - **Intelligent Summarization**: Utilizes Apple's Private Cloud Compute model to analyze text and pull out the most significant quotes and ideas, not just a simple text dump. - **Automated Note Taking**: Appends the extracted information directly to a specific note, creating a running log of your reading highlights without manual copy-pasting. - **Customizable Prompts**: You can edit the shortcut's prompt to tailor the output, such as asking for a single-paragraph summary, bullet points, or specific themes. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results, ensure the photos of your book pages are well-lit and the text is in sharp focus. Before using the shortcut for the first time, you may want to edit the **Append to Note** action to select a specific note where you want to collect your book points. By default, it's set to an existing note, but you can change this to any note you prefer or modify the action to create a new note each time. ## Summary The **Book Points AI** shortcut is a game-changer for anyone who reads physical books and wants to keep digital notes. By leveraging the power of on-device text recognition and Apple Intelligence, it transforms a tedious manual task into a fast, automated workflow. This allows you to build a digital library of your most important reading takeaways with minimal effort. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into dictating and organizing brainstorms # Deep dive into dictating and organizing brainstorms Capture your thoughts on the fly without worrying about structure. With new Apple Intelligence actions in Shortcuts, you can now dictate a stream of consciousness and have the AI automatically organize your spoken words into a clearly formatted, actionable note. This feature transforms how you brainstorm, making it faster and more efficient to turn scattered ideas into organized lists. 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## What's new This new workflow is powered by the **Use Cloud model** action within Shortcuts, which leverages Apple Intelligence's on-device and Private Cloud Compute models. Previously, structuring dictated text required complex third-party integrations. Now, you can simply dictate your thoughts using the built-in **Dictate text** action, provide a formatting instruction, and let the AI handle the rest. The shortcut can process your raw voice input, identify key points, and restructure them into bullet points or any other format you specify, saving the final organized note automatically. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e0d86dc12672305c2ef60edcc728e4d6de29d960a26ba76e5a598e1ad7879af6_7abc0159.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Create a new shortcut and add the **Dictate text** action to capture your voice. 2. Add a **Text** action and write a prompt telling the AI how to organize the dictated text (e.g., "Separate out what I said into several clear bullet points"). 3. Insert the **Use Cloud model** action. In the prompt area, combine your formatting instructions from the **Text** block and the output from the **Dictate text** block. 4. Add a final action, like **Create Note**, to save the AI's formatted response. You can also include the original full transcript for context. 5. Run the shortcut and start speaking your ideas. The shortcut will process your dictation and create a perfectly organized note. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/2ed9929a18b7cf845fb397cd771df1d2fe60a6b02f39a9d78f9018cc08fae8a1_c5d75176.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Voice-to-Structure Conversion**: Instantly transform rambling voice notes into structured lists, summaries, or paragraphs. - **On-the-Go Brainstorming**: Capture ideas while walking, driving, or commuting and have them neatly organized and waiting for you. - **Offline Processing**: By selecting the on-device model, you can organize ideas even without an internet connection, ensuring speed and privacy. - **Custom Formatting**: Define exactly how you want your ideas structured, whether as bullet points, a numbered list, or a summary paragraph. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To get the best results, be clear and specific in your prompt to the AI. Instead of a generic instruction, try something like, "Organize the following ideas into a bulleted list of action items for my podcast." This helps the AI understand the context and deliver a more useful output. You can also have the shortcut automatically add the current date to the note title for easy reference. ## Summary The ability to dictate and automatically organize your brainstorms with Apple Intelligence is a game-changer for productivity. This feature bridges the gap between quick idea capture and effective organization, allowing you to focus on your thoughts without getting bogged down by manual formatting. It’s a powerful way to make your voice your most efficient brainstorming tool. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating an AI-powered recipe saver for social media # Deep dive into creating an AI-powered recipe saver for social media Saving recipes from social media feeds and websites can be a disorganized process of screenshots and messy copied text. The new AI Recipe to Notes shortcut solves this by using Apple Intelligence to automatically extract, format, and save recipes directly into Apple Notes from virtually any source. This feature streamlines your digital kitchen, making it effortless to build a clean, consistent, and easy-to-read recipe library. 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## What's new This release introduces the **AI Recipe to Notes** shortcut, a powerful new tool that leverages Apple Intelligence to understand web content. When you share a link from Instagram, TikTok, or a website, this shortcut parses the raw HTML to identify and extract recipe details. It intelligently formats the content into a structured list with a title, ingredients, and steps, then automatically creates a new entry in your **Apple Notes** app, complete with a link back to the original source. ## How to use this feature 1. Find a recipe you want to save on Instagram, TikTok, or a website in Safari. 2. Tap the **Share** button within the app or browser. 3. Scroll through the share sheet options and select the **AI Recipe to Notes** shortcut. 4. Wait a few moments as the shortcut processes the content using AI. 5. A new, neatly formatted note containing your recipe will automatically be created in Apple Notes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/eee8b9c138c8e646ae16684460d3c9044f0c72d546210bd032f9b235db98cebb_3aa5763b.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Universal Compatibility:** Save recipes from various sources, including Instagram Reels, TikTok videos, and traditional websites, using one unified shortcut. - **Intelligent Formatting:** The shortcut's AI model automatically identifies and separates the recipe title, ingredients, and steps, cleaning up extraneous text and ads. - **Automatic Organization:** Instantly creates a new, structured note for each recipe, building a consistent and easy-to-navigate digital recipe book. - **Source Linking:** Each saved note includes a direct link back to the original post or webpage, making it easy to watch the video or revisit the source. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To ensure easy access, make sure the **AI Recipe to Notes** shortcut is enabled in your share sheet. You can do this by opening the shortcut, tapping the **(i)** icon at the bottom, and toggling on **Show in Share Sheet**. You can also customize the shortcut to save all recipes to a specific folder in Apple Notes, such as a 'Recipes' folder, to keep everything organized in one place. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/97cb1b22ee58a20459cac5a40be2412fef64f0b20878260d2c858dfddfe19228_cde84d30.jpg) ## Summary The AI-Powered Recipe Saver revolutionizes how you collect culinary inspiration from the internet. By leveraging Apple Intelligence, it transforms cluttered social media posts and webpages into a beautifully organized recipe library in Apple Notes with a single tap. This feature eliminates manual work, helping you build and access a personal collection of your favorite recipes effortlessly. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating a daily news report with RSS feeds # Deep dive into creating a daily news report with RSS feeds Stay informed without the noise by creating a personalized daily news report. This new workflow combines the power of RSS feeds with Apple Intelligence to automatically fetch, filter, and summarize articles from your favorite news sources. The entire report is then compiled into a single, easy-to-read note, delivering a tailored news briefing directly to you. 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## What's new This feature is powered by the new **News Report AI** shortcut, which automates the entire news-gathering process. The shortcut first fetches recent articles from a specified RSS feed using the **Get 50 items from** action. It then uses the **Filter RSS Items** action to narrow down the list to only articles published today. For each article, the shortcut gets the full content and uses the **Use Cloud model** action with Apple Intelligence to generate a concise, three-sentence summary. Finally, it combines the article's title, image, summary, and original URL into a new note in the Apple Notes app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b1c8abc28deb6785627da14c14fe5d566ced59c0796edc4ffb55cd5bd6a4373e_ce446d7d.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app and run the **News Report AI** shortcut. 2. The shortcut will automatically pull articles from the default RSS feed (e.g., The New York Times). 3. Once complete, a new note titled "Today's News" will be created in your Notes app. 4. Open the note to view your personalized daily report, complete with summaries and links to each article. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3d9f231a3e6b7ed5dd1ac54c906e9d341b0fed8e2c1d238a7a4103e27627caa0_f52f840b.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automated Content Aggregation:** Pull articles from any RSS feed to create a custom news digest. - **AI-Powered Summaries:** Leverage Apple Intelligence to get the key points of each article without having to read the full text. - **Daily Automation:** Set the shortcut to run automatically at a specific time each day, so your news report is always ready when you are. - **Rich Note Formatting:** The final output is a well-structured note that includes header images, titles, summaries, and links for a clean reading experience. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature You can customize this shortcut to fit your needs. To change the news source, simply edit the shortcut and replace the default URL in the **Get 50 items from** action with your preferred RSS feed link. To make the shortcut run faster, you can reduce the number of articles it fetches. For the fastest performance, switch the **Use Cloud model** action to **Use On-Device model**, though summary quality may vary. ## Summary The Daily News Report shortcut is a powerful example of how Apple Intelligence can transform routine tasks into fully automated workflows. By combining RSS feeds with on-device AI, you can create a personalized and efficient way to stay updated on the topics that matter most to you. Set it up once as a daily automation, and enjoy a curated news digest delivered right to your Notes app every day. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Finding and streaming movies with AI # Deep dive into Finding and streaming movies with AI Finding a movie and figuring out where to watch it just became effortless. The enhanced Movie Search and Stream feature uses Apple Intelligence to let you find any movie, see exactly where it's streaming, and save the details to a note with a direct link—all in a single, seamless action. This eliminates the need to manually check different streaming apps to find what you want to watch. 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). ## What's new We've supercharged the movie search shortcut into a powerful, end-to-end workflow. The updated **Ultimate Movie to Note AI** shortcut now queries the Movie Database API, presents a dynamic list of streaming options, and automatically generates a detailed note in Apple Notes. This new note includes the movie poster, the service you selected, and a direct link to start streaming immediately. ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Ultimate Movie to Note AI** shortcut from your shortcut library. 2. Enter the movie title when prompted. 3. Select the correct movie from the search results. 4. Choose a streaming service from the list provided. 5. The shortcut will automatically create and open an Apple Note with the movie details, poster, and a direct streaming link. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/49a1f6f558969a4eb975aeb5a75d409006b57406618328283e3c07762b07437a_b2b69ed4.jpg) ## Key capabilities - Search for any movie using a simple text prompt. - View a list of where a movie is available to stream or rent. - Directly choose a streaming service to generate a deep link for immediate viewing. - Automatically save a formatted note containing the movie poster, title, and streaming link to Apple Notes. - Create an organized and actionable watchlist without leaving the Shortcuts app. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature You can easily customize this shortcut to fit your workflow. Edit the final 'Create Note' action to save your movie notes to a specific folder in Apple Notes, such as 'Movies to Watch'. If you use a different note-taking app, you can modify the shortcut to use its URL scheme instead. ## Summary The AI-powered Movie Search and Stream shortcut transforms how you find and organize movies. By integrating search, streaming availability, and note-taking into one fluid automation, it saves you time and keeps your watchlist organized with ready-to-use links. This feature is a perfect example of how Apple Intelligence can streamline everyday tasks on your device. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Building a personal AI assistant (SiriBot) # Deep dive into Building a personal AI assistant (SiriBot) While Apple Intelligence introduces powerful single-shot AI actions to Shortcuts, they lack memory of previous interactions. The SiriBot shortcut solves this by creating a persistent, conversational assistant that remembers the context of your chat. This allows you to have back-and-forth conversations and ask follow-up questions, turning Shortcuts into a platform for building a personalized AI. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new SiriBot is a custom shortcut that demonstrates how to build a stateful AI assistant using Apple Intelligence. It works by saving each part of your conversation—both your prompts and the AI's responses—to a dedicated folder in the **Notes** app. When you ask a follow-up question, the shortcut feeds the entire conversation history back to the AI model, giving it the necessary context to provide a relevant and intelligent response. When the conversation is complete, it automatically compiles the entire exchange into a single, neatly titled note for your records. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b1c8abc28deb6785627da14c14fe5d566ced59c0796edc4ffb55cd5bd6a4373e_ce446d7d.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. First, create a new folder in your **Notes** app and name it "SiriBot". 2. Run the **SiriBot** shortcut from your shortcut library. 3. Enter your initial question or prompt when asked. 4. After receiving a response, a menu will appear asking if you want to **Continue conversation?**. Select **Yes** to ask a follow-up question or **No** to end the chat. 5. If you continue, the process repeats, with the AI retaining context from the previous exchange. 6. When you select **No**, the shortcut automatically generates a title and saves the entire conversation as a new note in your **Notes** app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/20a1fb7346a36e27e271cfbf24dd1c82c80ca7ae4b6580f47d63d450d2339e25_b0653a3a.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Contextual Conversations**: The assistant remembers what you've discussed, allowing for natural, multi-step dialogues. - **Persistent Memory**: By leveraging Apple Notes, SiriBot maintains a history of past conversations to inform future interactions. - **Automatic Archiving**: Your entire chat is saved as a single, organized note, making it easy to review past conversations without cluttering your Notes folder. - **Model Flexibility**: You can easily switch the AI engine by changing the **Use Model** action to Apple's on-device model, Private Cloud Compute, or the ChatGPT extension for different needs. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature You can customize the name of the folder where conversations are stored by editing the **Find Note** action within the shortcut. To clear the assistant's memory and start a fresh conversation, simply delete the notes from your designated "SiriBot" folder in the Notes app. This shortcut is a great template for building more advanced personal assistants tailored to your specific workflows. ## Summary SiriBot elevates Apple Intelligence in Shortcuts from a set of disconnected commands to a cohesive, conversational assistant. By using Apple Notes as a memory bank, this shortcut provides the context necessary for meaningful follow-up questions and complex interactions. It's a powerful demonstration of how you can build a personalized AI assistant that remembers your conversations and helps you get more done. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Image analysis and sorting # Deep dive into Image analysis and sorting With Apple Intelligence in iOS 26, your device can now understand the content of your photos, enabling powerful new automations. This deep dive explains how you can use a new Shortcut action to analyze images and automatically sort them based on what they contain, such as whether or not people are present. This feature transforms the tedious task of organizing your photo library into an automated workflow, saving you time and effort. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The core of this feature is the enhanced **Use Model** action in Shortcuts. Previously limited to text, this action can now accept images as input. You can ask a question about the image in natural language and receive a structured response. A key addition is the ability to request a **Boolean** output (a simple 'yes' or 'no'), which allows you to build powerful conditional logic directly into your shortcuts. For instance, you can now create a workflow that checks if people are in a photo and then performs a specific action based on the answer. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/37871305be958736ee5707a7947706e97f0c869c47b901e7d436715c4a74705a_b6b2d856.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Create a new shortcut and add the **Select Photos** action. Enable **Select Multiple** to process photos in batches. 2. Add a **Repeat with Each** action to loop through the photos you selected. 3. Inside the loop, add the **Use Model** action. For the prompt, type a question like, "Are there people, human beings, in this photo?" 4. Tap the arrow to expand the action's options and change the **Output** type to **Boolean**. This will ensure the response is a simple yes or no. 5. Add an **If** action directly below. Set the condition to check if the **Response** from the **Use Model** action is 'No'. 6. Inside the **If** block, add a **Save to Photo Album** action. Choose the **Repeat Item** (the original photo) as the item to save, and select an album like 'Landscapes'. The shortcut will now automatically file any photo without people into that album. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ed18df041e24cc78fe82ad8e11b1d9951539cb26dbe29412f0413092330ccb3e_e43fee19.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automated Photo Sorting:** Effortlessly organize your photo library by creating shortcuts that file images into specific albums based on their content, like separating landscape photos from portraits. - **Smart Filtering:** Quickly find specific types of photos by running an analysis. For example, you can create a shortcut to identify all photos containing text, which is useful for finding screenshots of receipts or documents. - **Contextual Information Retrieval:** Go beyond simple sorting by asking detailed questions. A shortcut could describe the main subject of a photo, identify landmarks, or even list the dominant colors in an image, providing rich metadata on demand. - **Conditional Workflows:** Use the 'yes' or 'no' response to trigger complex chains of actions. If a photo contains a person, you could run a follow-up action to add it to a shared album; if not, you could move it to an archive. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, be specific with your prompts in the **Use Model** action. Instead of just "people," using "people, human beings" can improve accuracy. You can also chain multiple analysis shortcuts together. For example, first sort photos with people, then run a second shortcut on the remaining photos to separate landscapes from photos of pets. ## Summary Image analysis in Shortcuts, powered by Apple Intelligence, fundamentally changes how you can interact with your photo library. By enabling your device to understand visual content, you can automate sorting, filtering, and metadata generation in ways that were previously impossible. This capability allows you to build custom, intelligent workflows that keep your photos perfectly organized with minimal manual effort. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into generating emails from notes and ideas # Deep dive into generating emails from notes and ideas Transform your raw notes and brainstormed ideas into professionally written emails in seconds. This new capability uses Apple Intelligence to automatically draft email content and a corresponding subject line, saving you the time and effort of composing messages from scratch. It's the perfect tool for turning a quick thought into a polished piece of communication. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This feature introduces a powerful workflow that connects the Notes app, Shortcuts, and the Mail app. Using the new **Use Cloud model** action, the shortcut first generates a complete email body based on the content of your note. It then uses a second AI action to create a concise, punchy subject line for that content. The entire process is initiated directly from the **Share Sheet** in any note, providing a seamless transition from idea to draft. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d14ee575629a2e33a220653e0d62b37e1bfd0cc6fdf6fe610394d7af84579f7b_926b3830.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open a note containing the ideas or text you want to turn into an email. 2. Tap the **Share** button at the top of the note. 3. Select the **Send Email from Note AI** shortcut from the list of actions. 4. Apple Intelligence will process your note's content in the background. 5. A new email compose window will appear, pre-filled with a generated subject and body, ready for you to review and send. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c6ef6c5ca044b12abf170937ea88b248c524dabcaa076f431c7d7f1a0d2a191d_db0e9171.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Intelligent Content Generation**: Converts unstructured notes, bullet points, or paragraphs into a coherent email format. - **Automated Subject Lines**: Creates a relevant, short subject line with an appropriate emoji to increase engagement. - **Customizable Prompts**: You can edit the underlying prompts in the shortcut to adjust the tone, length, or target audience of the generated email. - **Streamlined Workflow**: Eliminates the need to copy and paste text between apps, allowing you to move directly from ideation in Notes to communication in Mail. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For even more efficiency, duplicate the shortcut and customize the prompts for different use cases. You could have one version that writes formal emails for your team and another that creates casual updates for your podcast listeners. Simply adjust the text inside the **Use Cloud model** actions to change the instructions given to the AI. ## Summary Generating emails from notes is a powerful example of how Apple Intelligence streamlines everyday tasks. By transforming your rough ideas into ready-to-send emails with just a tap, this feature significantly reduces the friction between thinking and communicating. It’s an invaluable tool for boosting productivity and ensuring your important ideas are shared effectively. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into automating sports schedules and weather reports # Deep dive into automating sports schedules and weather reports Go beyond simple commands by turning any website into a personal data source with Apple Intelligence in Shortcuts. This new capability allows you to build powerful automations that fetch, parse, and deliver specific information—like your favorite team's next game or today's high temperature—directly to you. It eliminates the need for manual website checking by transforming raw web data into clean, actionable insights. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new With iOS 18, Shortcuts can now intelligently process the contents of any webpage. By combining the **Get Contents of URL** action with the new Apple Intelligence **Use Model** action, you can create a custom prompt that tells AI exactly what information to extract from a website's raw HTML. This means you no longer need a formal API or RSS feed; you can simply point your shortcut to a webpage and ask Apple Intelligence to find the data you need, such as game schedules, weather forecasts, or other timely information. ## How to use this feature You can create a custom report for almost any data available on a public website. The following steps outline how to build an automation that fetches a sports schedule: 1. Start a new shortcut and use a **Text** action to list the URLs of the sports team schedule pages you want to track. 2. Use a **Repeat with Each** action to loop through the URLs. Inside the loop, use the **Get Contents of URL** and **Make Rich Text from HTML** actions to retrieve the webpage data. 3. Add another **Text** action to create a detailed prompt. Instruct the AI to find specific information from the HTML, such as games happening today or the date and time of the next scheduled game. 4. Use the **Use Model** action to process the webpage text with your prompt. This action will output just the information you requested. 5. Finish the shortcut by combining the results from each team and displaying them in a **Show Result** action. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7993be5b4e36a79957a172732a8a2751a1f8e2c2044d2cc4f12c7e80de1199a7_27602ae1.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automated Sports Schedules:** Create a single shortcut that checks the schedules for multiple favorite teams and tells you if any are playing today or when their next game is. - **Custom Weather Notifications:** Build a shortcut that uses your current location to fetch data from a weather API, like weather.gov, and sends you a notification with the day's high temperature and the time it will occur. - **Intelligent Data Parsing:** Let Apple Intelligence handle the complex task of sifting through messy HTML to find exactly what you need, whether it's a date, time, team name, or temperature. - **Set and Forget Automation:** Set your shortcut to run automatically at a specific time each day, so you get your custom report without ever having to lift a finger. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3bebcc199c3c91fb24aa0a176031f0a829f6018c0c875475c68e2435eec70b28_1bfc93d8.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature When creating your AI prompt, be as specific as possible. Mention the current date (using the **Current Date** variable) and clearly state what you want the AI to find and how to format the output. For faster performance on tasks that don't require complex reasoning, try using the on-device model instead of the cloud model in the **Use Model** action. ## Summary Automating web-based information with Apple Intelligence opens up a new world of possibilities in Shortcuts. By intelligently parsing data from sources like sports websites and weather APIs, you can build personalized, automated reports that deliver the exact information you care about, right when you need it. This feature transforms your iPhone from a passive information consumer into a proactive, personalized data assistant. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into transcribing and summarizing audio files # Deep dive into transcribing and summarizing audio files Manually transcribing and summarizing audio from meetings, lectures, or interviews can be a time-consuming process. With iOS 26, you can now automate this entire workflow directly on your iPhone or iPad. A new native **Transcribe** action in Shortcuts converts audio to text, and by combining it with Apple Intelligence, you can instantly generate summaries and key points from any audio file. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a powerful new **Transcribe** action within the Shortcuts app, allowing you to convert audio files into text locally on your device. When combined with the Apple Intelligence **Use Model** action, you can build powerful workflows that not only transcribe audio but also summarize the content. The 'AI Transcribe and Summary' shortcut uses this combination to process audio files from the **Files** app or Share Sheet, then automatically creates a new, neatly formatted note with a title, a concise summary, key points, and the full transcript. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9e909b218a42b80395ea0c11c85fbd7b7ab90bf90b601656fb26bc69c4b7a660_10f7d585.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Navigate to an audio file in the **Files** app or any app that supports sharing audio. 2. Tap and hold the file, then select **Share**. 3. From the Share Sheet, scroll down and select the **AI Transcribe and Summary** shortcut. 4. The shortcut will run automatically, first transcribing the audio and then sending the transcript to Apple Intelligence for summarization. 5. A new note will be created in your **Notes** app containing the generated title, summary, and full transcript. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0de1b3828f0b3b91632ec634df3436e0343a50ac62fbb0c24253418011f7f16f_1f28f785.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **On-Device Transcription:** Convert spoken audio to text quickly and privately without needing an internet connection or third-party service. - **Intelligent Summarization:** Leverage Apple Intelligence to distill long transcripts into concise paragraphs or bulleted key points, saving you reading time. - **Automatic Note Creation:** The entire output, including a generated title, summary, and the full transcript, is saved into a single, organized note for easy reference. - **Flexible and Customizable:** You can easily modify the shortcut to change the summarization prompt, save the output to a different app, or adjust the formatting to fit your needs. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For longer audio files, such as hour-long podcasts or lectures, it's best to configure the **Use Model** action to use the **ChatGPT** extension. The on-device and Private Cloud Compute models may have character limits that can cause errors with very long transcripts. The ChatGPT integration is better suited for processing extensive text. ## Summary The ability to transcribe and summarize audio files with Shortcuts and Apple Intelligence is a game-changer for productivity. This feature streamlines the process of turning spoken content into actionable, easy-to-digest text. By automating this workflow, you can reclaim valuable time and focus on the insights from your audio recordings rather than the manual labor of processing them. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into generating social media and blog content # Deep dive into generating social media and blog content The Post and Blog Creator shortcut leverages Apple Intelligence to transform any piece of content—whether it's a webpage, a document, or your own notes—into ready-to-use drafts for social media and your blog. This feature solves the time-consuming problem of manually repurposing content for different platforms. With a single tap, you can generate a variety of content formats, saving you hours of creative work and helping you maintain a consistent online presence. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This new workflow is powered by the **Post and Blog Creator** shortcut, which utilizes the advanced capabilities of Apple Intelligence. When you run this shortcut from the **Share Sheet** on any piece of content, it automatically analyzes the text and generates five distinct social media posts and a longer-form blog post. The output, complete with a generated title and relevant hashtags, is then saved as a new entry in your **Notes** app, making it easy to review, edit, and publish. ## How to use this feature 1. Open a webpage, article, or note containing the content you wish to repurpose. 2. Tap the **Share** button to open the **Share Sheet**. 3. Scroll through the list of actions and select the **Post and Blog Creator** shortcut. 4. The shortcut will process the content in the background using Apple Intelligence. 5. Once complete, a new note will be automatically created in the **Notes** app with the generated social media posts and blog content. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/370501a55f8ce59f29c5ad89d0d73ada592d0db20782f7299fef9d043fc2f9fb_3b893a3b.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Effortless Content Repurposing:** Turn any article, PDF, or note into multiple formats suitable for different platforms without manual rewriting. - **Automated Social Posts:** Generate a series of distinct social media posts from a single source, each with appropriate hashtags to increase reach. - **Instant Blog Drafts:** Create a well-structured blog post draft based on the provided content, saving you from the blank page. - **Seamless Integration:** Use the shortcut directly from the **Share Sheet** in Safari, Notes, Files, and other apps for a frictionless workflow. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/53f04daa4b42d8c944af6318d9c304569b3a9933c80e28f3ad1117997e837c38_a12e00d1.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature While the AI-generated content is a fantastic starting point, always review and edit the drafts to add your personal voice and ensure accuracy. You can also customize the shortcut's prompt to tailor the output further. For example, you can specify a target audience, change the tone (e.g., professional, casual, witty), or adjust the number of social media posts generated. ## Summary The Post and Blog Creator shortcut is a game-changer for anyone who creates content online. By leveraging Apple Intelligence to automate the drafting process, it streamlines your workflow and allows you to publish more consistently across multiple platforms. This feature turns your iPhone into a powerful content repurposing tool, helping you maximize the value of every piece of information you work with. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Automatically summarizing email attachments # Deep dive into Automatically summarizing email attachments This new feature allows you to create a powerful automation that automatically summarizes attachments from incoming emails. Instead of manually downloading and reading lengthy reports or documents, Apple Intelligence can now extract the key points and present them to you instantly. This saves significant time and helps you quickly grasp the essence of important files right from your inbox. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new With the latest update, the **Shortcuts** app now allows you to build automations that trigger when you receive an email. By setting the automation to **Run Immediately**, you can have it process email attachments in the background without any manual confirmation. The key is to pass the **Attachments** from the **Shortcut Input** directly into a summarization shortcut, which uses Apple Intelligence to generate a concise summary of the document's contents. ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app and navigate to the **Automation** tab. 2. Tap the **+** button and select **Create Personal Automation**. 3. Choose the **Email** trigger and specify filters like a sender or subject. 4. Enable the **Run Immediately** option so the automation works in the background. 5. Add a **Run Shortcut** action and select your 'Summarize Doc AI' shortcut. 6. Tap the input field on the **Run Shortcut** action and select **Shortcut Input**. 7. Tap the **Shortcut Input** variable again, and change the property from 'Email' to **Attachments**. The automation will now automatically summarize any attachment from matching emails. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7da5f6d479085e1f72a7b5de6831cc3e26eba65a5cc1b34b93e95875424d6116_a3097e9a.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8b08d8ffa25ee327738556c3e863815270aee87b38bc5388915955f1770be4c1_9b9622b7.jpg) ## Key capabilities - Process any email attachment that contains text, such as PDFs, Word documents, or plain text files. - Customize the summarization prompt to get different outputs, like a 3-sentence summary, key bullet points, or both. - Run automations silently in the background, delivering summaries via notifications. - Filter which emails trigger the automation by specifying a sender, subject, or recipient. - Chain actions to save the summary to Apple Notes, create a reminder, or send it to another app. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For a more focused workflow, create a specific email filter in your automation. For instance, only summarize attachments from your boss or emails with 'Report' in the subject line. This prevents your device from processing every single attachment you receive. You can also modify the final step of your shortcut to save the summary to a specific note or app instead of just showing it as a notification. ## Summary Automatically summarizing email attachments is a game-changer for anyone who deals with frequent reports, documents, or long-form content via email. By combining a powerful email trigger with Apple Intelligence, you can create a 'set it and forget it' workflow that delivers essential information directly to you. This feature turns your iPhone into a proactive assistant that helps you stay informed and efficient. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Create a Custom YouTube Feed with Shortcuts (and Ditch the Algorithm) # How to Create a Custom YouTube Feed with Shortcuts (and Ditch the Algorithm) If you are tired of the YouTube algorithm dictating what you watch, you can take back control. Using a simple Apple Shortcut, you can pull the latest long-form videos from your favorite channels and compile them into a clean, daily digest in Apple Notes. By the end of this guide, you will have a custom, distraction-free feed ready to go. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What you will need Before getting started, make sure you have a few things ready on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac: - The built-in **Shortcuts** app. - The **Today's YouTube Videos** shortcut installed on your device. - A free web tool called NewsKeeper to grab the background links for your favorite channels. ## Step 1: Understand how the daily digest works The shortcut is designed to skip the algorithm entirely. You can automate it to run once a day. Setting it to run at 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM is a great way to catch up on the day's uploads. When the shortcut runs, it grabs the latest videos from your curated list of channels. It pulls the video thumbnail, the title, and the creator's name. It then generates a brand new note in your Apple Notes app with a direct link to watch each video. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/385e36a7000555ac486d0d02f3590937f831db3fba8f8fd6ab9da14627f0d6cf_e7807e50.jpg) You get to see exactly what is new without getting sucked into a feed of recommended content. ## Step 2: Grab the RSS feeds for your favorite channels The shortcut uses RSS feeds to pull in video data. YouTube does not make these easy to find, but you can generate them quickly using a third-party site. 1. Open your browser and go to newskeeper.io. 2. Type the full channel URL or the creator's handle into the search bar. For example, you can type @mkbhd. 3. Click the **Search** button. 4. NewsKeeper will generate a list of specific RSS feeds for that channel. You can choose to pull all videos, just long-form videos, Shorts, live streams, or even specific playlists. 5. Click **Copy URL** next to the feed you want to include in your digest. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bf9a570605a3e844cdf1c13c2c892ebfe9b04d81a5bf3150ca9e48224ac1aa66_a45dd19b.jpg) ## Step 3: Add the channels to your shortcut Now that you have your RSS feed link, you just need to drop it into your shortcut. 1. Open the **Today's YouTube Videos** shortcut in your **Shortcuts** app. 2. Locate the **Text** block near the top of the shortcut. This is where all your channel feeds live. 3. Scroll to the bottom of the list inside that text block. You can also highlight and delete all the default links if you want to start completely from scratch. 4. Paste your copied RSS feed onto a brand new line. 5. Tap **Done** to save your changes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ed8eed5ccf2a9e8a7062ac89df4ffade7bd563a3c6bdfa345087961a2b462fb3_b908f1fc.jpg) ## You are all set Your custom YouTube feed is now ready. You can repeat the process to add as many channels as you like. Every time the shortcut runs, you will get a perfectly organized Apple Note with the videos you actually care about. Enjoy your algorithm-free viewing. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Build an AI-Powered News Aggregator with Apple Shortcuts # How to Build an AI-Powered News Aggregator with Apple Shortcuts If you want to take control of your daily information diet, Apple Shortcuts is the perfect tool for the job. We have built a massive collection of new automated workflows to help you skip the algorithm and get exactly what you need. From an AI-powered tech news aggregator to automated wallpaper generators, here is a look at the best new shortcuts you can add to your iPhone and Mac today. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## Build an AI-powered news aggregator Keeping up with the news often means scrolling through endless feeds. The Tech News Aggregator shortcut automates that entire process. It pulls up to 50 items per day from your selected tech RSS feeds. It then sends those articles to ChatGPT through the Apple Intelligence action. The AI looks for duplicate topics and prioritizes the top 5 stories based on how frequently they were covered across your different sources. ### How it works 1. Open the shortcut and add your preferred RSS feeds to the top **Text** block. 2. Set the publish date filter to **in the last 1 day** so you only get fresh news. 3. Run the shortcut. It will generate a clean Apple Note containing the titles, summaries, and source links for the day's top stories. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ff346d271bf0696f452c66ff07fa2e74b0e915ff57e74cd15c3ff6ef29f3f339_822ee0c2.jpg) ## Get your favorite YouTube videos in one place The Today's YouTube Videos shortcut skips the YouTube algorithm completely. It pulls the latest long-form videos from your favorite creators and builds an Apple Note with thumbnails, titles, and direct watch links. You can skip the endless homepage scrolling and jump straight to the content you actually want to see. ### Here's how to try it 1. Visit newskeeper.io and enter a YouTube channel handle to get its specific RSS feed. 2. Open the shortcut and scroll down to the bottom of the **Text** block. 3. Paste the URL on a new line. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0692b8c57adc4a19b0a29e657704e7fe085eb8756ec180ad270b42c655876015_38d168a8.jpg) Pro tip: Set up an iOS automation to run this shortcut every day at 6 or 7 PM. You will have a fresh list of videos waiting for you right when you are ready to unwind. ## Generate AI wallpapers with Nano Banana Google's Nano Banana model is fantastic for image generation. You can now harness that power directly inside Shortcuts to generate high-quality, customized iPhone wallpapers. You can choose different themes and let the shortcut apply the result to your device automatically. ### Give it a spin 1. Grab an API key from Google AI Studio. 2. Paste your key into the **Text** block just above the **Set API Key** variable. 3. Run the shortcut and select a theme like **Mountains** or **Ocean**. 4. The shortcut uses the **Set Wallpaper Photo** action to apply the new image directly to your **Lock Screen and Home Screen**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/846ca7dfe02fa665951a85c49983514cf886f99d0277d1b9b7ac07ed14dea756_5814f83c.jpg) ## Transcribe and summarize voice memos instantly Sometimes you just need to talk out an idea. The Quick Voice Memo to Note shortcut captures your audio and runs it through Apple Intelligence. It gives you a complete text transcript alongside a short summary of any action items. It drops everything directly into an Apple Note so you never lose track of a brainstorm. ### How it works 1. Run the shortcut from your Mac menu bar or iPhone Control Center. 2. Speak your thoughts and tap the stop button. 3. The shortcut will process the audio in the background and generate an Apple Note with a smart title and your full transcript. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a3665e9c77aac53105a7bdc718a4ab0a07737a61cda0155550f9bf3cb293ff6a_de7abe24.jpg) ## Log your thoughts with Stream of Consciousness This acts like an intelligent visual bookmarking tool. It takes a screenshot of whatever is currently on your screen. It extracts any visible text, grabs the web URL if you are currently using Safari, and uses ChatGPT to log everything into an ongoing Apple Note. It even parses out context from text messages and formatting details. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4b7ab076e98071794b035528740644e844244fe69181f988b21efb2f215680c5_6303ec89.jpg) ## A few more things There are several other utility shortcuts in this release designed to save you time throughout the day: - **Rename All Files in Folder**: Select a folder and this tool renames every file based on its actual contents. It transcribes audio files and reads PDFs to generate accurate file names automatically. - **Stock Calculator**: Type in an investment amount and a ticker symbol. It uses Yahoo Finance data to tell you exactly how many shares you can purchase. - **Current App Storage**: Run this straight from your Control Center. It instantly opens the exact Settings page for the app you are currently using so you can manage its storage limits. - **Take Screenshot Save To Album**: This bypasses the usual preview screen. It takes a screenshot and saves it directly to a specific photo album on your device. - **Expense Tracking to Numbers**: This prompts you for a purchase amount, category, and subcategory. It then seamlessly adds a new row to your Business Expenses spreadsheet in Apple Numbers. ## Go explore These shortcuts take a lot of the friction out of daily digital tasks. Whether you want to build your own news aggregator or just track your expenses a bit faster, there is something here for your workflow. You can find and download all of these tools in the shortcut.bot community. Grab the ones that fit your routine and start automating. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Turn Voice Memos into Smart Notes with AI-Powered Transcription and Summarization # How to Turn Voice Memos into Smart Notes with AI-Powered Transcription and Summarization We all have those moments of inspiration or a sudden rush of tasks that need to get out of our heads immediately. Fumbling to type them out isn't always practical. If you want a frictionless way to record your thoughts and have them automatically organized, there's a powerful shortcut you can build using built-in tools. By the end of this guide, you'll have a system that listens, transcribes, summarizes, and neatly files your voice memos. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What you'll need This specific workflow relies on the **Apple Intelligence** action within Shortcuts. Because of this, it works seamlessly across your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Just keep in mind that it won't run on the Apple Watch since the watch can't currently transcribe audio through this method. ## Step 1: Configure your destination folder Once you have the "Quick Voice Memo to Note" shortcut on your device, you might want to keep things organized. You probably don't want raw voice notes cluttering up your main feed. 1. Open the shortcut and scroll down to the very bottom action. 2. Look for the action that creates the note. 3. Tap the folder variable and choose exactly where these new notes should land. ## Step 2: Record your brain dump When you run the shortcut, it immediately starts listening. A recording interface pops up on your screen. Just start talking. For example, you might dictate a quick list of tasks for the day: editing a video to publish on Saturday, checking community comments, and getting a podcast ready to ship. When you are finished speaking, just tap the screen to stop the recording. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/23791b538d06dcb544c3d5c5408d9ecf78ecb504c45e402fb70d80e4ae438b0a_0d1cb95e.jpg) ## Step 3: Review your AI-generated note This is where the magic happens. The shortcut hands your audio over to the AI model. It transcribes the entire recording and then generates a concise summary. Finally, it creates a brand new Apple Note in your designated folder. The note is intelligently titled based on your content. For example, it might name it "Daily Tasks and Podcast Publishing Plan." Inside, you get a short summary at the top. Below that is your full, verbatim transcript just in case you need the exact wording. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a3665e9c77aac53105a7bdc718a4ab0a07737a61cda0155550f9bf3cb293ff6a_de7abe24.jpg) ## Make it instantly accessible To make this truly useful, you need to be able to trigger it in seconds. If you are on a Mac, you can add this shortcut directly to your menu bar. Just click the icon in the top right and select **Quick Voice Memo to Note** to start recording immediately. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c6dbfc52f9da2ce1d70cdf23bbf3e8da1a22db49cbfa9b44d74d8fd41d209e88_3608fa7b.jpg) On an iPhone, you can use the customizable Control Center. Tap **Edit Controls**, hit the plus icon, and add a Shortcuts control specifically linked to this voice memo workflow. ## You're all set You now have a personal assistant ready to capture your thoughts at a moment's notice. Try replacing your frantic typing with a quick voice memo the next time you're on the go. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Build a 'Second Brain' in Apple Notes with an AI-Powered Screenshot Shortcut # Build a 'Second Brain' in Apple Notes with an AI-Powered Screenshot Shortcut We all stumble across things on our phones we want to remember later. It could be a random app recommendation, a funny text thread, or a useful article. Taking a standard screenshot usually just clutters up your camera roll. Instead, you can build a digital second brain right inside Apple Notes. Using a custom Apple Shortcut and a bit of AI, you can capture your screen, let the system extract the context, and automatically log it into a running document. By the end of this guide, you will have a one-tap button to remember anything you see on your phone. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What you'll need - A device running Apple Intelligence. - The **Make Note of This** shortcut installed on your iPhone or iPad. ## Step 1: Understand the 'Stream of Consciousness' workflow The shortcut is essentially a smart screen-grabber. When triggered, it creates a new Apple Note titled "Stream of Consciousness". If that note already exists, it simply appends new data to the bottom. Here is exactly what happens when you run it: 1. It takes a screenshot of whatever is currently active on your display. 2. If you are browsing in Safari, it automatically grabs the active URL. 3. It passes that screenshot and URL to ChatGPT through the Apple Intelligence integration. 4. The AI extracts the text, summarizes the visual context, and dumps nicely formatted bullet points directly into your note. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9709c90a5506aebd5c417d2894226fe1f4e10f30183da77903e681662b73d4cd_3a66ae3d.jpg) ## Step 2: Add it to your Control Center You want this tool easily accessible from any app. The best place to put it is inside your **Control Center**. 1. Swipe down from the top right of your screen to open the **Control Center**. 2. Tap **Edit Controls** at the bottom. 3. Tap the small plus icon to add a new control. 4. Select the Shortcuts option and choose the **Make Note of This** shortcut. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/cdb43d46310dcf2264b13e48c029b5cfd861317eb1f1c87465cc96a1c849d8b6_be78a78d.jpg) Now you have a dedicated button to save anything on your screen, instantly. ## Step 3: Capture a website Let's say someone recommends a Mac utility app like CoconutBattery 4. You pull it up in Safari, but you don't have time to download it right now. Instead of leaving the tab open forever, swipe down and tap your new shortcut button. The AI reads the page. In seconds, your "Stream of Consciousness" note updates in the background. It logs the exact date and time. It writes a quick summary noting that the app monitors battery health on Mac, iPhone, and iPad. It even notices the requirement for macOS 12 Monterey and adds the direct URL so you can find the page later. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4b7ab076e98071794b035528740644e844244fe69181f988b21efb2f215680c5_6303ec89.jpg) ## Step 4: Add your own context to any app This shortcut works anywhere, not just in the web browser. Imagine you are in the Messages app planning lunch with a group. There is a poll on your screen asking people to vote between tacos and sushi. Run the shortcut from the **Control Center**. A text prompt will pop up asking if you want to provide any additional context. Type a quick note to yourself, like "My context is we decided on tacos for lunch." Tap **Done**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c406b475c81e5ee2a338d1420a26564aacc5dac5c0281173525f58f1869a4d2a_fa020c08.jpg) The shortcut snaps a picture of your Messages app. It reads the contact names and the visible poll options. It then combines that visual data with your custom prompt. Your Apple Note updates with a neat summary of the lunch decision, the participants, and the visual proof. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f24acd8bf77e9dbc634a364c147ff5d4fb5e973007e941b3847b0ee21dbb2943_1dc24a9b.jpg) ## You're all set You have successfully built a frictionless capture system. No more losing links, digging through your camera roll, or forgetting why you took a random screenshot in the first place. Your Apple Notes app is now doing the heavy lifting for your memory. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### 10 Powerful Utility Shortcuts for iPhone You Can Install Right Now # 10 Powerful Utility Shortcuts for iPhone You Can Install Right Now The Shortcuts app has evolved from a basic automation tool into a powerhouse, especially with recent updates tying into Apple Intelligence. You can now build workflows that read your screen, transcribe audio, and organise your life with a single tap. If you are looking to get more out of your iPhone, here are ten custom shortcuts that tackle everything from file management to expense tracking. Let's dive in. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## 1. Create a Daily Tech News Briefing Keeping up with industry news usually means bouncing between a dozen different websites. The Tech News Aggregator pulls RSS feeds from your favourite sites and grabs the latest 50 articles. Instead of dumping a massive list on you, it passes those articles through Apple Intelligence. The AI looks for duplicate stories, ranks them based on how frequently a topic is covered across different sites, and generates a clean Apple Note. You get the top five stories of the day, complete with a summary and a source link. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ff346d271bf0696f452c66ff07fa2e74b0e915ff57e74cd15c3ff6ef29f3f339_822ee0c2.jpg) ## 2. Generate Custom Wallpapers You can hook Shortcuts directly into image generation APIs to create new wallpapers on the fly. By connecting to Google's Gemini model, you can run a prompt and have a perfectly sized image dropped right onto your screen. When you run this shortcut, you select a style like "Ocean," "Mountains," or "Gradient." It sends the request with the specific pixel resolution of your iPhone. Moments later, it generates the image and uses the **Set Wallpaper Photo** action to apply it to both your Lock Screen and Home Screen simultaneously. You don't even need to see a preview if you toggle it off in the settings. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/846ca7dfe02fa665951a85c49983514cf886f99d0277d1b9b7ac07ed14dea756_5814f83c.jpg) ## 3. The Ultimate Voice Memo Transcriber We all have moments where we need to brain dump ideas quickly. This shortcut turns your ramblings into organized, actionable text. When triggered, it starts recording audio immediately. Once you tap to finish, Apple Intelligence transcribes the recording verbatim. It then passes that transcript through a language model to generate a tight summary. Finally, it creates a new Apple Note in a specific folder containing both the summary and the full transcript. Pro tip: Add this to your Control Center. Just hit **Edit Controls**, tap the plus icon, and drop the shortcut right next to your flashlight for instant access. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a3665e9c77aac53105a7bdc718a4ab0a07737a61cda0155550f9bf3cb293ff6a_de7abe24.jpg) ## 4. The "Stream of Consciousness" Catcher Sometimes you see something in a text message, on a website, or in an app that you just need to remember. The Make Note of This shortcut handles this perfectly without breaking your workflow. When you run it from the Control Center, it takes a silent screenshot of whatever is currently on your screen. If you are in Safari, it grabs the URL. It uses Apple Intelligence to extract the text, phone numbers, or context from that image. It then appends all of that data as a new bullet point to a running "Stream of Consciousness" note in the Notes app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4b7ab076e98071794b035528740644e844244fe69181f988b21efb2f215680c5_6303ec89.jpg) ## 5. Auto-Rename Files Based on Content Naming downloaded files is tedious. This is where Apple Intelligence truly shines on macOS and iOS. You point this shortcut at a specific folder, and it evaluates every file inside based on its extension. If it finds an audio file, it generates a transcript. If it finds a PDF or Word document, it extracts the text. If it is an image, it pulls any visible text. It feeds that extracted context to the AI, asks for a short descriptive title, and renames the original file automatically. It handles an entire folder of randomly named downloads in seconds. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9b920e39121c848936d71eb593832f646756e6f03e874e55c26a79e7679ff1e5_d7e2adaf.jpg) ## 6. Automate Your Battery Charge Limit If you are running the iOS 26.4 Beta 2, you have access to a brand new native action for battery management. You can now build automations that adjust your maximum charge limit on the fly. Search for the **Set Battery Charge Limit** action. You can configure this to drop your charge limit down to 80% during the workday. If you expand the action, you will find a **Set Until Tomorrow** toggle. This automatically resets your device to target a 100% charge the following day. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8bbd92777658509166564115a2bea340ab8c5b2e6a0ec5339fdcc74560966e64_51e78b4f.jpg) ## 7. A Working Video to GIF Converter The official Apple Shortcuts gallery includes a tool to turn videos into GIFs, but it is notoriously unreliable. Building a custom one fixes the issue and gives you more control. This version prompts you to select a video directly from your Photos app. It brings up a trimming interface so you can isolate the exact few seconds you want. Tap **Save**, and it encodes that snippet into an animated GIF. You can then preview it using Quick Look and save it right back to your camera roll. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/80bd125f699d5ef2b0a3cf68f2b9fcf3e28bd8ba02ef8595a2e8aef9fe8b7bf1_5d6cc90c.jpg) ## 8. Jump Instantly to App Settings Navigating the iPhone Settings app to clear storage or tweak notifications takes too many taps. You can build shortcuts that bridge that gap based on the app currently active on your screen. Trigger this from the Control Center while an app like Instagram is open. The shortcut identifies the active app and deep-links you directly to its specific storage pane or notification preferences. It saves you from digging through the main settings menu every time you need to manage a heavy app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a420dca9c04932d2c9c4bacfe9d62b82874d2a13107bdf730e99e77c89f76b2a_51a8c7ac.jpg) ## 9. Turn Any Video into a Custom Ringtone If you find a great sound bite on a social media reel, you can easily turn it into an alarm or ringtone without needing a computer. First, use the built-in screen recording feature to capture the video. Run the Screengrab to Ringtone shortcut. It asks you to select that recent screen recording and lets you trim the audio. It converts the file and prompts you to name it. When the Share Sheet pops up, just tap **Use as Ringtone**. Your custom audio is immediately available in your Clock app to use as a morning alarm. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e7b9b697cbae99632bbaa2e5847e5264ba835e164e1bc1f5346ec604eb9e3637_b4adb263.jpg) ## 10. Seamless Expense Tracking in Numbers You don't need a bloated third-party app to track your daily spending. Shortcuts can pipe data directly into an Apple Numbers spreadsheet. This shortcut triggers a series of quick prompts. It asks for the date, the total cost, and a brief description. It then gives you a menu of top-level categories like Food, Transport, or Office. Once you select a category, it offers relevant subcategories. It takes all those variables, formats the date to match your spreadsheet columns, and appends a brand new row to the bottom of your designated Numbers document. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d47aa8adc0c1d18bb1ab6632d4918096f1ff38088b9d745579afc4ed3335530e_ade90c74.jpg) ## Go explore Shortcuts can feel intimidating at first, but starting with utility tools like these shows you exactly what your device is capable of. Add a few to your Control Center, test them out, and see how much friction you can remove from your daily routine. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### 18 Best iPhone Shortcuts to Save Time (One-Tap Install Links) ## 18 Best iPhone Shortcuts to Save Time (One-Tap Install Links) 🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F). This list rounds up my favorite Shortcuts you can install in one tap. Just click any link to open the Shortcut and add it instantly, no recipe-building required. From podcast summaries and voice memo transcription to food tracking, screen time reports, QR codes, and bulk file renaming, these automations save serious time every day. Podcast Summaries [https://shortcut.bot/47qLr08](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVRXMXNnRVRyR0tRUTZiMklpR3d6TU92d3UyQXxBQ3Jtc0tuNjBqdU5pN0I0NWFqNERyRmkydGVJTkVaMlRwd0Q0RVFSLUpadE1oenJqV3dVQ3lsNUFweTBtelNUSDRHWEJpZ2Utdkw2X2k1ODlDN21vZGE5MmhzZnRTQnBFVkVtbXRXc3BEeFdkYWJUalRHVXF6MA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F47qLr08&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Food Tracker [https://shortcut.bot/4rfbAbw](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbFV4dUo5VkhIZzIxc2ZJX25KcmZuYU5YTU1qUXxBQ3Jtc0trTFF6OTBCRGpfdXpMWjNGcWdJMTR0UGNSSkg0MmxHTi1wYjBHRXpNdE12dFRrb1ZkRHRXU3czbWhsQjA0TGpEWV9ETE5JNjhZSzVjQnBGeDIxM2oxUGR2Z2hmbEU5YUlpYWxJTXpNNkNnbFB1UGQ2RQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4rfbAbw&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Save for Later [https://shortcut.bot/43Qh425](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa1FxRWxUd3c4MHVSN0NVQ3VVdGNMbDdqdzBkd3xBQ3Jtc0tsTEM3Y1JFMTRQQjBTZWJ0SkV5LWZEaEpfSklqc19lWjZ4SkJSZjhJdTdXSWVjU2VhUlRpZmkzZUJvWFlXaTljWHF0UG1MR3lWcG9PVFBIUkZoTFhqekI1eFF4RktfVnJ3VmVqUFU0dDFEVnFadHlRQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F43Qh425&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Rename Album Art [https://shortcut.bot/47osJpO](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmlQTkZJZ0xBcm4taHZSVk5seTMzUERYS3VYd3xBQ3Jtc0ttZkhnRlRab19RZFFqdmN2aFFXWDRISnNFUlRURnVVeVJhMTN6QkVqbFZrZ29IYzg2cjVrc1VidzJaQXMwRkpHMW01VkRpaV9WUnJaUTRNLTBsY05ueGZ2SVZ6a0ZNQkhLV1NEQk9sSklJdE9GOEZ1QQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F47osJpO&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Bulk Rename Files [https://shortcut.bot/4oPpgrJ](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa3JtRENUWmt1YUdhWmtqVGo4RkJwQ2ZZMjRVUXxBQ3Jtc0tuWkVIQmZwc0M2ZldkbWtidkdGbURHaVlyaWR1ZmdvTXhrd2M2RVYwU1RrSGExVTBWaWtNajRsMThBejJUZzBGXzNxYlE3M0ZkREs4OEdvVDBrQTRQZ2U5SWREemdCQi1FbWZrWjZuMDZJNmN0QTZLcw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4oPpgrJ&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Random Wallpaper from Folder [https://shortcut.bot/4345JLL](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa2t2XzFkeEpsdGpWMWk2UXJUM2VmTWptVF9SUXxBQ3Jtc0ttLXN0bTZUZnBObkdIVTBWYnlIa0lUN04tYTZsSGcyN21pSzREWDF4aGV0dk96MDlZYzFIQkNjY2U4ZUNPYU9uZzRHdUNLUUdqekpxWFFtYmhRVE4yaTYwT1RqX1NtRFhxSFc3elFUZUFVLWtWWno5VQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4345JLL&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Screen Time Report [https://shortcut.bot/4ooBt6L](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXh2N2R4cEJhN3Y2elcyXzQ1R0p6azRXWWtxQXxBQ3Jtc0tuZHpZRUVfNzZEaGFaUUZpb01mdmFQZEpHeFMyTTdBbVZoc2t1eGUtSEtLRlhaWUdkYWhVU1k0QmxYTWFOdnVXU0Fna1pYRHYxUVVMb0U5WDdVWDNsTFpuZlhOVWJOTTZ5UE5QUUtYWnk0UlVDMGV2VQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4ooBt6L&v=KNvfXi8RANY) QR Codes with Colors [https://shortcut.bot/qrcode](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbFVDSEVKaGswemZPMXhYX3RqVXEyLV9ZTmtiZ3xBQ3Jtc0tuYzBWUEZka2dHUVp1b0VjdjM3a2U5akNNZThDNTQtdHM1aDBOYXlmcGtQUlBQVjZ3dnNrbTdKcFlFUnYzd1h5c2F6X3BQalJqdzFOaUc2SkhYSV9NWXVvU0lralZTNTZtcjA1TEExSkhyOVl3c1pSNA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2Fqrcode&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Text Undone Reminders [https://shortcut.bot/4oa1p63](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbHZfcmd6Q29mN2h6U3hpVDFvZ3FPcTMwWWVOQXxBQ3Jtc0tuUG01UDRDUVFiYXUwNURVQXE3dDkwQ1ZUZFJMSktQOTdad2RJbW1kdXJKUDRsSG5lOEtYTVN1dWZhazRCZmVaa0l5UmNZbGNybEdIZmNYOTNuZDlmUGNNaV9CT0NQenZ1NC1UcVd0UEZwRGs5UFhwYw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4oa1p63&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Add Photos to Shared Album [http://shortcut.bot/4qzXWiO](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa3RIN0tvcDlzUVAwRU1jdC1WOUpHTmREeTBnQXxBQ3Jtc0tuTkR2Qk5wOFB1R1BJRnFfVjhvWGNrRFZ3bWVTQWw4Z245YUZhZWx0YzZCeVpRY3N6NC1jeVVOQWNkMEdFaWdLUXRQVTNQM0YtZ2h4eTdIWG5PS25WSDlTeVFEOVpYMGl2dHlWcUNfQmg0bFNiOTk3NA&q=http%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4qzXWiO&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Transcribe and Summarize Voice Memo [https://shortcut.bot/4oH1e1V](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXJGNFZtbVFpN2U2amN4U2dWcXZrdHozWFFIUXxBQ3Jtc0ttMUttVzVjSWM5dXhPbjd5UXNVdElQWmlkY0sydDJ3cGVQZGdtUXExLUVyTkVORl83ZnRmV2NsbWhsN1RBSTVzajZBQ3Rnd3NkbmNPZU96N3hpTElaZlZKLTFxand2b3FRdlBHdEhWRFlUemx0MTVTcw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4oH1e1V&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Transcribe Voice Memo with Corrections and Speak Back [https://shortcut.bot/3WIcT4N](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbTk4ZUluNTlaZlo2YWxGYjlEWmhOQkswTXhtZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttbGpfeGp4Qkk2TU5OVElVYTBqQV9PVlFzX2RUQU9rVGxHeUN6aU15VmFwRUpaMTZEWlh0Sl83cUVxalBITGFpd3hIbzc1QUFlRkhwcU5XTzRuUzJvSllZQU84THFyVG1lOGI2RlljcHIyQ281N0QtMA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F3WIcT4N&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Quick Add Reminders [https://shortcut.bot/3WA3uw2](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXJtcnJOTW5UdG95dWgtLTNSdG55ejBvQVNNUXxBQ3Jtc0trOVpBbFFvS3JBbDhTZUg0OEM5YUpKM3JQQWJBSUpHTGtmcDBaWWNLa19GZVRYRFNnRTdNdlV4d1BJd1ZBWW9FNFJrSW1RUHJXX05LSlJ6Y1FYeGgxdmFsTUlfbXVwcjN0dFltY0pBLVRnVUo4Qzh6cw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F3WA3uw2&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Weekly Event Report [https://shortcut.bot/436kZaN](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa3hjbUhURTJhSjVOQmM2TTRuYjJsWHA1cF9BQXxBQ3Jtc0trRFZqZlh1TENoUGZxVHcwQ0diMXpjSXFaLTRlNWRCVWk3bmdSc09jRzVsZ1RaMHE2UnNRN3dmdzdjX0V1NE51dnRRY3RIY3dicjZrRVNjWUFhRXdqOUNrR3pYX3ZJWTVYbGhtRnl2blVub1FVeG1TUQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F436kZaN&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Auto Text Specific Events [https://shortcut.bot/47kUeC1](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbm1xTXhXbElCNnFkTVE5YW5qS0locGNlaGZ6Z3xBQ3Jtc0trdEM3OWllQUd5bkE3eUd2RHdjd3dLTEs3dFV0RzFxOWdmek00LVV5ZzRRWjZydy12MTVNM3FMdmY3M1FZSXNxRTU4R096UllMLXV4YkNlc0d1S0NEOW5SSWQ0M3ZLcWZzZWF4dFFTWUVkMXRjaFBzWQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F47kUeC1&v=KNvfXi8RANY) My Vergecast Shortcuts [https://shortcut.bot/3LyJJCv](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa3ROekZNcmk2UENIczdieUhEUkI2WDNHZzllUXxBQ3Jtc0ttcFRZTENSR3ZmeENIbVpLaWhzSDhiVVBJcktqSUNNX00xUU5WQ1A2Q2tUaXRnUWRsQWd3bzZPeThtM0h6dVhHbDNremYwNmJQVGFmeWtXZGxHX0x4MVZRUWtzQk4yMGNPTTVjZURjUEZmV1V1UGJadw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F3LyJJCv&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Create Your Own Bitly Links (Requires Your API Token) [https://shortcut.bot/4qD8z4a](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbURtdW5Ya0paeWk4aXZrY056dUFIN21na2pjUXxBQ3Jtc0ttdHlrczl3SkxFbERMNmtMQVN2dmRKYzRmV3lNdHlfbkVtUGZ0N1M2ZVJXQ3BTdFBVNUVGOTNCMDdsTk1jTDZNSklKak5ITEZ4and1UGR4aXFHbFo1bmFBZjdCblBSWnF0Sk5IUUEzNDlRNmxKNUtwcw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4qD8z4a&v=KNvfXi8RANY) Search Your Bitly Links (Requires Your API Token) [https://shortcut.bot/4nyyibt](https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbG1WQUlPbDNLamxEVnl4RVlRcW5kaXYxWjZhZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttT1JMRTRMbW1tbEtYREVUYjN1c01pbEVLekp5ZEZWUzhZYzA5Z0ZnQjNfUHhhdHNrZ2dpLUo1cXM0TzBsdFVraW1JY3ktOW9mZTJLNmo3V2FnU2lzbFluelBsblBoYlF5dE1ISm1veVNIYWxlb2lZMA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshortcut.bot%2F4nyyibt&v=KNvfXi8RANY) **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## Perplexity Comet Changed How I Use My Mac ### Overview: A Tour of the Perplexity Comet AI Browser # Overview: A Tour of the Perplexity Comet AI Browser

Let's be honest: it's easy to be skeptical about the hype surrounding AI browsers. But after using Perplexity Comet for a full week, the skepticism is gone. This isn't just a different way to search the web; it's a completely different way to interact with it. I've tested it against Dia, Google Chrome with Gemini, and ChatGPT's agent mode. The difference? Comet doesn't just read the web—it takes action on it. It clicks buttons, filters results, and monitors pages so you don't have to. From finding promo codes that actually work to automating tedious clicks on podcast dashboards, here is a look at how Comet changes the game. Let's dive into the use cases. ## The promo code hunter This is the feature that immediately sets Comet apart. We've all been there—searching sketchy coupon sites, copying codes, and getting rejected at checkout. Comet automates this entire frustrating loop. Unlike ChatGPT, which might just list codes it found, Comet can actually see the discount field in your cart and test the codes for you live. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/883b8d7a7000eefa2720cff00b8f837940b097b7c69028b8a4651b508201cf3a_2eef3ba3.jpg) ### Here's how to try it 1. Navigate to your shopping cart on any website. 2. Open the Comet sidebar and ask it to "Find a promo code that actually works for this site." 3. Tell it to "keep trying until one works." 4. Watch as Comet inputs codes and hits **Apply** automatically until it lands on a success. It can run in the background while you open a new tab to do real work. In our tests, it found a working code in seconds, while other AI agents spent over 11 minutes just looking for lists. ## YouTube superpowers YouTube is a goldmine of information, but finding specific moments in long videos is a pain. Comet turns YouTube into a searchable database. You can ask it to find a specific quote—like the exact second Neil Armstrong said "one small step"—and it won't just tell you the timestamp. It will open the video and start playing right at that moment. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1052903925f698273077020a0a6a4f90b915ae252b4a484540a5ce4258b7ab32_45df399e.png) ### What you can do with it - **Find gear and specs:** Watching a tech review? Ask "What camera is she using?" to get the answer instantly from the transcript. - **Get actionable tips:** Watching a long interview? Ask Comet to "Give me 5 actionable tips from this video," and it will extract them side-by-side. - **Grab assets:** Need the thumbnail? Just ask "Grab the thumbnail image of this video," and it pulls the high-res file for you. - **Build playlists:** Ask it to "Find full-length Apple Keynotes and add them to my playlist." It searches, finds, and adds them automatically. ## Automating the busywork This might be the most niche but powerful feature: Comet can baby-sit a webpage for you. If you are waiting for a button to become clickable or a status to change, you don't have to sit there refreshing the page. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bc419a02f77f1706073d4be3c9d2965910adae63174f45bad30f703e7de9fb98_1f013f20.png) For example, in Apple Podcasts Connect, you often have to wait for audio to process before you can hit **Publish**. With Comet, you can use a prompt like: "Refresh this page every minute until the publish button becomes clickable, then click it." It handles the refreshing and the clicking while you walk away. ## Smart research and data Navigating government websites or dense analytics dashboards is rarely fun. Comet simplifies this by acting as an interpreter for complex pages. ### Making sense of metrics If you are looking at a dashboard like YouTube Studio or a podcast host, you can ask plain English questions about the data on the screen. - Ask "Which month had the highest watch time?" and it analyzes the chart visuals and data to give you an answer. - Ask it to format that data into a Markdown table so you can copy-paste it elsewhere. - Need to process that data in Excel? Ask "Give me a formula to sum column B," and it generates the spreadsheet formula for you. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6ebc46a9a4628361e38681146c24c3c7d1e58e3b8fe947b3e94ac4389c59fee0_73c5d252.png) Pro tip: If you find yourself using the same prompts over and over, use a tool like TextExpander to save your best Comet prompts. A quick keyboard shortcut can trigger a complex automation. ## A few more things - **File Finder:** Ask "Get me the W9 PDF from this website" on a messy government site, and it navigates directly to the file link. - **Amazon Cleaner:** Open a bunch of Amazon tabs and ask Comet to create a list of short links with clean product titles. - **LinkedIn Detective:** Ask it to find someone who "used to work at Apple on AI and now works at Meta," and it will hunt down the profile. - **Zillow Filter:** Type your criteria like "4 beds under $400k in Lakeland" and let Comet click the filters for you. ## That's a wrap Perplexity Comet isn't perfect—it struggled pretty hard when we asked it to play a game of Wordle. But for real-world tasks, it is incredibly capable. It changes the browser from a passive window into an active assistant. Whether you are formatting data or just trying to save a few dollars on a purchase, it's worth taking for a spin. Give it a try and see what workflows you can automate. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into finding and applying promo codes # Deep dive into finding and applying promo codes

Stop hunting for discount codes on questionable websites. The new promo code feature uses an AI agent to automatically find, test, and apply the best available promo codes directly on a website's checkout page. This saves you both time and money by turning a manual, often frustrating process into a seamless, automated action. ## What's new This feature gives the AI Assistant the ability to interact directly with checkout pages. When prompted, it will search the web for relevant promo codes, then return to your cart to test them one by one. The Assistant enters each code into the **Discount code** or **gift card** field, clicks the **Apply** button, and checks if the code is valid. Once it finds a working code, it leaves it applied so you can complete your purchase with the discount. ## How to use this feature 1. Navigate to an online store's checkout page with items in your cart. 2. Open the **Assistant** panel on the right side of the browser. 3. Type a prompt asking for a discount, such as "Find a promo code that actually works for this site and try them to make sure it works." ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d73858b8f32cf55cf73633e5f3eaa2fa154bd1a6d8cb3618a20dc8b965f70029_10f13e36.png) 4. The Assistant will begin its search and start testing codes directly on the page. 5. Once a valid code is found and applied, the Assistant will confirm the successful discount. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a3cbaf76ff95d8ca82395dca0ed01c8240e3311c11d1af407a27fb1d664613b7_5a3c3fc1.png) ## Key capabilities - **Autonomous Web Interaction:** The AI can identify and interact with form fields and buttons on a webpage to test codes without any manual input from you. - **Iterative Testing:** If the first code doesn't work, the Assistant will automatically try the next one it finds, continuing until it secures a discount or exhausts its options. - **Real-time Verification:** Unlike other tools that simply list potential codes, this feature verifies that the code is active and applies successfully to your specific cart. - **Background Operation:** You can let the Assistant search for codes in one tab while you continue browsing or working in other tabs, making it a powerful tool for multitasking. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results, be specific in your prompt. Instead of just "find codes," try asking it to "find and test promo codes until you find one that works." This ensures the Assistant completes the full cycle of searching, testing, and applying. This feature works on most e-commerce sites, but performance may vary depending on how the checkout page is designed. ## Summary The automatic promo code feature is a powerful example of how an AI browser can simplify everyday online tasks. By automating the entire process of finding and validating discounts, it provides immediate, tangible value by saving you money and eliminating the tedious work of manual coupon hunting. Simply ask, and let the Assistant handle the rest. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Advanced YouTube Integration # Deep dive into Advanced YouTube Integration

The Advanced YouTube Integration transforms how you interact with video content by allowing the AI Assistant to understand, search within, and take action on YouTube videos. Instead of manually scrubbing through timelines to find a specific moment or searching for information mentioned in a video, you can now use simple text commands to get precise answers and navigate directly to the content that matters most to you. ## How it works This gives the **Assistant** the ability to parse the content of YouTube videos, including transcripts and metadata, and to perform actions directly on the YouTube website. You can ask the Assistant to find specific quotes, summarize key points from the video you're currently watching, or even build playlists based on your criteria. The Assistant can now find and play videos at exact timestamps, saving you significant time and effort. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6cd4a893493f1e636d0f7035b2f0a59162c9cf12fcb642a4c5a2d64e0231bbec_1e041a28.png) ## How to use this feature 1. While on any webpage, open the **Assistant**. 2. Type a natural language prompt related to YouTube. For example, ask it to find a video based on a famous quote or topic. 3. If you are already watching a YouTube video, ask a specific question about its content, like asking for a summary of key points or identifying a piece of equipment mentioned. 4. Watch as the Assistant either provides the information directly in the sidebar or automatically navigates the browser to the correct YouTube page and timestamp. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/080abcaf5335991ab11c64b163752bdee0833103e4bc887744847801f52e53ab_0006933a.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Find and Play Specific Moments:** Ask the Assistant to play a video at the exact moment a specific phrase is spoken. It will search YouTube, find the relevant video, and start playback at the correct timestamp. - **Summarize Video Content:** Get actionable tips, key takeaways, or a general summary from a long video without having to watch the entire thing. - **Answer Contextual Questions:** While watching a video, ask the Assistant questions about the content, such as identifying a product shown or finding the timestamp where a certain topic is discussed. - **Automate Playlist Creation:** Instruct the Assistant to find multiple videos on a specific topic (e.g., "full length Apple keynotes") and add them to one of your YouTube playlists automatically. - **Extract Video Assets:** Quickly grab a video's high-resolution thumbnail image with a simple command. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the most accurate results when searching for a specific moment, try to use a direct quote in your prompt. For broader topics, you can ask more general questions like, "Give me the timestamp where she talks about her audio setup," and the Assistant will scan the transcript to find the relevant section for you. ## Summary Advanced YouTube Integration turns video content into a searchable and interactive resource. By enabling you to find precise information and automate tasks like playlist management, this feature streamlines research, content discovery, and learning. It's a powerful tool for anyone who relies on YouTube for information and wants to get to the point faster. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Creating product lists from browser tabs # Deep dive into Creating product lists from browser tabs

Manually compiling product lists by copying and pasting names and links from multiple browser tabs is a time-consuming task. Here's a powerful new capability that allows the AI assistant to automatically scan all your open tabs, extract key product information, and generate a clean, formatted list with a single prompt. This feature streamlines the creation of product roundups, research documents, and shopping lists. ## What's new The AI assistant can now process information from multiple open tabs within a single browser window. You can instruct it to gather specific details, such as product names and URLs, from all open Amazon pages. The assistant will not only collect this data but also intelligently format it, shortening long product titles and providing clean links, presenting the final output as an organized list directly in the chat interface. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4378f659cbf3b681d4b9bbc0955f9fbbf56867d7aa39805ed8546dc850bced0c_b65ec539.png) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the product pages you want to include in your list, each in its own browser tab. 2. Open the **Assistant** sidebar on any of the pages. 3. Write a prompt asking the assistant to create a list from your open tabs. Be specific about the desired format, for example, 'Take all the Amazon tabs in this window, get the short URL, format the product title to be as short as possible, and then give me a list.' 4. The assistant will then scan the tabs and generate a formatted list based on your instructions. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c102a266cdfbb33dd933871b96e8fb1cee22a86259d0ca55caa7c9a85c3e1b93_949b60ca.png) ## Key capabilities - **Multi-Tab Processing:** Gathers information from all open tabs in a window simultaneously, eliminating the need to process one page at a time. - **Smart Formatting:** Automatically shortens and cleans up long, complex product titles for better readability. - **Clean Link Generation:** Extracts and provides shortened, canonical URLs, removing unnecessary tracking parameters. - **Custom Output:** Allows you to define the structure of the final list directly in your prompt, ensuring the output meets your specific needs. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, be clear and specific in your prompt. For instance, explicitly ask for the 'short URL' and to 'format the product title to be as short as possible' to get clean, concise output. This feature is especially useful for creating affiliate link lists, gift guides, or research summaries quickly. ## Summary Creating product lists from browser tabs transforms a tedious manual task into a fast, automated workflow. By instructing the AI to read and compile data from multiple open pages, you can generate clean, formatted lists in moments. This feature is a significant time-saver for anyone who frequently curates lists of products or resources from the web. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into automating repetitive web tasks # Deep dive into automating repetitive web tasks The Comet browser has a powerful assistant that can perform actions on websites for you, effectively automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks. Instead of manually searching, clicking, and filtering, you can now provide natural language instructions and let the AI agent handle the workflow. This feature turns your browser into an active partner, saving you significant time and effort on everything from online shopping to data analysis. ## What this means The Comet **Assistant** is no longer just a search and summarization tool—it's a fully capable web agent. The assistant can now understand and execute multi-step commands that involve interacting directly with the content on your screen. It can identify and click buttons, type into form fields, navigate through different pages, and extract specific information, all based on your plain-text prompts. This capability allows you to delegate complex web-based workflows that previously required your full attention. ## How to use this feature 1. Navigate to the website where you want to perform a task. 2. Open the **Assistant** sidebar on the right side of the browser window. 3. In the **Ask anything...** prompt box, describe the task you want the assistant to perform. Be as specific as possible (e.g., "Find a working promo code for this site and try applying it"). 4. Press Enter and watch as the assistant analyzes the page and carries out the steps. You can continue browsing in another tab while it works. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f584fd36ee1a9d04345e8c2c297f9f87844b8661e71539fe98ffa7ade2d5c1ee_5161f780.png) ## Key capabilities - **Automate Online Shopping:** Find and test promo codes directly on a checkout page until a valid one is successfully applied. - **Find Specific Files:** Quickly locate and pull direct links to documents, like a W-9 PDF from the IRS website, without navigating complex menus. - **Analyze Web-Based Data:** Interpret charts and tables from analytics dashboards (like YouTube Studio or podcast hosting sites) to answer specific questions, such as identifying the month with the highest watch time. - **Manage Spreadsheets:** Ask for formulas to perform calculations on data in Google Sheets, and the assistant will provide the correct syntax for you to copy and paste. - **Perform Background Monitoring:** Set up tasks that run on a timer, such as refreshing a page every minute and automatically clicking a button (e.g., 'Publish') once it becomes active. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4125837d68ecaee65ac1ffb9110c7bfd9c07c8cf7909d534bf07f2db916712f9_13a75938.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For complex or frequently used commands, consider using a text expansion tool to save your prompts. This allows you to trigger intricate automations with just a few keystrokes. Also, remember that you can run automations in one tab while you continue your work in another, maximizing your productivity by truly multitasking with your browser. ## Summary Automating repetitive web tasks with Comet's assistant fundamentally changes how you interact with the internet. By offloading manual processes like finding discounts, navigating convoluted websites, and analyzing online data, you can reclaim valuable time and focus on more important work. This feature makes your browser an intelligent, proactive tool that works for you in the background. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into finding files and PDFs on websites # Deep dive into finding files and PDFs on websites Tired of endlessly clicking through complex menus and search results just to find a single document? This feature transforms how you locate files on the web. You can now ask the Assistant to find specific files, like PDFs, on any website, and it will provide a direct link, saving you valuable time and effort. ## What's new This feature has a powerful file-finding capability directly in the browser's Assistant. Instead of relying on a website's internal search function or sifting through Google results, you can use a simple, conversational prompt on any webpage. The Assistant will intelligently scan the site, identify the requested document, and present you with a direct download link, even on large and poorly organized sites like government portals. ## How to use this feature 1. Navigate to the website where you need to find a file (e.g., irs.gov). 2. Open the **Assistant** panel on the right side of your browser window. 3. In the chat input, type a natural language request for the file you need. For example, type "Get me the W9 pdf from this website." 4. The Assistant will process your request, search the website, and provide a direct link to the PDF. 5. Click the link to open or download the file instantly. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/fe3e735c01b2971c75bcf2e5171e4f6e5d0c93856fb22fb0fc830d31435ff917_5a56908b.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Bypass Complex Navigation:** Instantly find documents buried deep within a website's structure without manual searching. - **Efficient Government and Corporate Site Search:** Quickly locate official forms, reports, and manuals on sites that are notoriously difficult to navigate. - **Natural Language Understanding:** Ask for what you want in plain English, just as you would ask a human assistant. - **Direct Link Extraction:** The Assistant provides the exact URL for the file, so you can access it with a single click. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, be as specific as you can in your request. If you're looking for a specific version of a form, include the year or revision number (e.g., "Find the W-9 PDF from March 2024"). This feature is not limited to PDFs; you can also ask for other file types like .docx or .csv if you know they exist on the site. ## Summary The new file-finding capability is a game-changer for productivity, especially for anyone who frequently deals with official documentation. By letting the AI handle the tedious task of searching, you can retrieve the exact files you need in seconds. This feature turns your browser into a smarter, more efficient tool for research and information gathering. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Interpreting analytics and data # Deep dive into Interpreting analytics and data

Get faster insights from your data with the analytics interpretation feature. The AI assistant can read, understand, and answer questions about charts, tables, and metrics directly on your screen. This transforms static dashboards into interactive, queryable resources, saving you the time and effort of manual data analysis. ## What it does The AI assistant is capable of interpreting complex data visualizations and tables found on analytics platforms. When you are viewing a dashboard, such as your podcast host's analytics page or the **Advanced mode** in YouTube Studio, you can ask questions in natural language. The assistant will analyze the on-screen information, interact with UI elements like date-range filters, and even download necessary files like a CSV to provide you with a direct answer. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9d03470a3d48676b992483d52570388dcd8129060509e80bd0e3931dc4232630_1598956b.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Navigate to a web page containing the analytics or data you want to query. 2. Open the **Assistant** panel on the right side of the browser window. 3. In the chat input, ask a specific question about the data displayed on the page. For example, ask "what's our second highest downloaded episode of this podcast?" 4. The assistant will process the information, perform necessary actions like changing filters, and deliver the answer directly in the panel. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/2ab96cc0214fee488ddc1eb77ae2c50b92f575fecba3137dab2bdbf6e130fead_26977f52.png) ## Key capabilities - **Natural Language Queries:** Ask questions about your data just as you would ask a person, such as "Which month had the highest watch time?" - **Automated UI Interaction:** The assistant can automatically adjust filters, like date ranges on a dashboard, to gather the specific data needed to answer your question. - **Data Formatting:** Request that the AI organize on-screen data into a different format, such as creating a clean markdown table from a complex analytics view. - **Spreadsheet Assistance:** Copy data into a spreadsheet and ask the assistant to provide the correct formulas for calculations like sums or averages. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/cfc5dd83c2358a3d1b983dc8a94ad534ad785e1afcb6a69365e58e54273d9196_328d66f9.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the most accurate results, make sure the data you're asking about is visible on the current page. If you're working with spreadsheets, you can paste a table in and then ask for formulas to perform calculations. This is a powerful way to quickly build out your sheets without needing to remember complex formula syntax. ## Summary The ability to interpret analytics and data transforms how you interact with information online. Instead of spending time navigating complex dashboards and manually compiling reports, you can now get immediate answers to your most pressing questions. This feature streamlines data analysis, making it more accessible and efficient for everyone. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into working with spreadsheets # Deep dive into working with spreadsheets

Transform your browser into a powerful spreadsheet assistant. You can analyze data and generate formulas in applications like Google Sheets using simple, natural language commands. This feature eliminates the need to manually write complex formulas or perform calculations, allowing you to get insights from your data faster than ever. ## What's new The AI assistant is context-aware within spreadsheet applications. When you have a sheet open, you can ask the assistant questions directly about the data visible on your screen. The assistant can perform calculations on the fly, answer questions about the data, and even provide you with the exact formula you need to use in your spreadsheet. Simply copy data into your sheet, open the assistant, and start asking. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7f718e018773c3be718e687bdbcbcec9661a0e33db69c51d9ba1848be05e5afb_95f8c5a9.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open a spreadsheet with your data in the browser, such as **Google Sheets**. 2. Open the **Assistant** sidebar. 3. Ask a question in natural language, such as 'What is the average watch time based on this data?'. 4. To get a formula, ask the assistant for it. For example: 'Give me a formula that calculates the sum total of watch hours from column B'. 5. Copy the provided formula and paste it into the desired cell in your spreadsheet. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c3e573fafdc60af4686283c6524cdaa395424e3b397d35db0ef2c69f3012e98d_7671f5cf.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Natural Language Queries**: Analyze your data by asking questions in plain English instead of writing formulas. - **Formula Generation**: Instantly generate the correct formulas for common calculations like sums, averages, and more. - **Quick Data Summarization**: Get immediate answers and summaries from your data without leaving your spreadsheet tab. - **Seamless Data Transfer**: Extract data from other websites into a markdown table and paste it directly into your sheet for analysis. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results when asking for formulas, be specific by referencing column letters (e.g., 'sum of column C') or cell ranges. This helps the assistant provide the most accurate formula for your needs. You can also use the assistant to first extract data from a complex webpage into a structured table, then copy that table into your sheet to begin your analysis. ## Summary Working with spreadsheets is now faster and more intuitive. By leveraging the AI assistant to interpret data and generate formulas, you can reduce manual effort and focus on the insights your data provides. This feature is perfect for both spreadsheet experts who want to speed up their workflow and for those who need a little help performing calculations. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Advanced search and navigation # Deep dive into Advanced search and navigation

Advanced Search and Navigation transforms your browsing experience by allowing you to make complex requests in natural language. Instead of manually clicking through menus, applying filters, or scrubbing through videos, you can simply tell the **Assistant** what you're looking for, and it will navigate and search the web for you. This feature turns tedious, multi-step tasks into single, simple commands, helping you find information at the speed of thought. ## What's new The browser's **Assistant** is capable of performing actions directly on web pages. It can read the content of a site, interact with search bars and menus, and navigate to different pages to fulfill your request. This allows for powerful new workflows, such as finding the exact moment a phrase is spoken in a YouTube video, locating a specific PDF on a complex government website, or even searching social platforms like LinkedIn for people who meet detailed criteria. ## Getting started 1. Open the **Assistant** sidebar on any webpage. 2. Type a specific command describing what you want to find. Instead of a simple keyword, use a full sentence. 3. For site-specific searches, you can add context like "on this website" or "in this video." 4. The **Assistant** will show its steps as it works and provide you with a direct answer, a link, or navigate the page for you. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c2c661c132e335532f5497706c267d3205b62367236fbc34944a5bd0dc7d032b_3140a5b4.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Semantic Video Search:** Pinpoint the exact timecode in a YouTube video where a specific phrase is spoken and automatically start playback from that moment. - **Intelligent File Discovery:** Instantly find and retrieve specific documents, such as PDFs on complex websites like irs.gov, saving you from navigating confusing site structures. - **Automated Site Filtering:** Perform detailed searches on sites with multiple filters, like Zillow or Amazon, by simply describing what you want in a single sentence. - **Contextual Information Retrieval:** Ask questions about the content of the current page, and the assistant will analyze it to provide a direct answer, whether it's identifying a product in a video or summarizing a section of text. - **Advanced People Search:** Use natural language to perform complex searches on platforms like LinkedIn to find profiles matching specific work histories or roles. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f9c55575699c896c659a4b812ab8d90e3f366b73dbd57d5a204968f39078b63b_73c1074f.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature The more specific your prompt, the better the result. Instead of asking for "promo codes," try asking to "find a promo code that actually works for this site and try them to make sure it works." You can also let the **Assistant** work on a task in one tab while you continue browsing in another, making it a great tool for multitasking. ## Summary Advanced Search and Navigation fundamentally changes how you interact with the web. By understanding your intent and executing multi-step actions, it removes the friction of manual searching and navigating. This feature allows you to offload repetitive tasks to the **Assistant**, enabling you to find what you need faster and more efficiently. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## Running My Entire Studio on Apple Shortcuts ### Overview: Automating your studio with Stream Deck and Shortcuts # Overview: Automating your studio with Stream Deck and Shortcuts

Friction is the enemy of creativity. If it takes you fifteen minutes to set up lights, open apps, arrange windows, and check audio levels before you record, you're less likely to actually hit that record button. Automation fixes that. This guide walks through a complete studio automation setup. We're connecting Elgato Stream Deck, Apple Shortcuts, Audio Hijack, and smart home gear to make complex workflows happen with a single tap. Whether you have the original Stream Deck or the new Plus model with knobs, you'll find new ways to speed up your production. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** We'll cover everything from basic lighting scenes to advanced scripts that launch your entire podcasting environment. Let's get your studio working for you. ## Connecting Shortcuts to Stream Deck The Stream Deck is great on its own, but it gets significantly more powerful when you connect it to Apple Shortcuts. This allows you to trigger HomeKit scenes, window management, and system-level scripts that the Stream Deck software can't do natively. However, adding a specific Shortcut to a button isn't immediately obvious. You can't just drag it from the Shortcuts app. ### How to add a Shortcut properly 1. Open the Shortcuts app on your Mac and find the shortcut you want to use 2. Right-click the shortcut and select **Add to Dock**. This is a temporary step 3. Once it's in your Dock, right-click the icon there and select **Options**, then **Show in Finder** 4. This reveals the actual file inside your Applications folder 5. Drag that file directly onto a button in your Stream Deck software ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7f9d623b6a745a9049cb53dd8a7ea181ee7b32ca815fb7e1bc4660bc04a212a0_1d2438ab.jpg) Once added, tapping that button runs the Shortcut immediately. You can use this to toggle smart lights, change color scenes (like Blue, Orange, or Red), or control blinds without touching your phone. ## Using the Stream Deck Plus knobs If you have the Stream Deck Plus, those four knobs at the bottom offer a new layer of control. They aren't just for volume. You can program them to handle multiple actions depending on whether you turn them or press them. ### Setting up Action Triggers 1. In the Stream Deck software, look for **Action Trigger** under the Stream Deck category 2. Drag this onto one of the dial slots at the bottom of the interface 3. You will see three distinct triggers: **Dial Press**, **Rotate Left**, and **Rotate Right** 4. Assign a different command to each. For example, assign 'Next Page' to right rotation and 'Previous Page' to left rotation ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e2dd1ae63ac6290913f9b74a8c997c22dfaa4c6c5f23c7646d272fc362b030e1_5e2e98df.jpg) This effectively gives you three buttons in one slot. You can keep your page navigation on the knobs, leaving your main LCD buttons free for app triggers and tools. ## Automating your recording session The real power comes when you chain these tools together. Instead of opening apps one by one, you can create a single 'Start Podcast' button. This uses a complex Apple Shortcut triggered by the Stream Deck. ### What this workflow looks like With one press (or a click of a Stream Deck knob), the following happens automatically: - HomeKit sets the studio lights to the correct brightness and color - The Brave browser opens directly to the Riverside recording studio URL - Notion opens to the specific episode planning document - The windows automatically snap to a 50/50 split screen view - Audio Hijack starts a recording session in the background as a backup ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/edb56ba4669d7a7af889b5af4f0a1e8693341092451b30438f4bd2b64f5f7a28_646bae89.jpg) When you're done, a 'Stop' button can do the reverse: stop the recording, raise the lights, and close the apps. This ensures you never forget to hit record and your workspace is always consistent. ## Controlling hardware with MIDI Sometimes your audio gear isn't within easy reach. If you keep your mixer or interface on a separate stand, reaching over to mute a mic can be annoying. You can solve this by sending MIDI commands from the Stream Deck to your audio interface, like the Rødecaster Pro II. ### Setting up MIDI control 1. Install the **MIDI** plugin from the Stream Deck store 2. On your Rødecaster (or similar interface), ensure **MIDI Control** is enabled in the system settings 3. In Stream Deck, drag the **CC/NRPN** button to a slot 4. Set the command number (e.g., Command 27 is often Mute) 5. Select your device in the **MIDI Out Ports** dropdown menu Pro tip: You can toggle channels on and off remotely without moving from your camera position. This is incredibly useful for solo creators who can't sit right next to their mixer. ## Advanced screen capture tricks If you cover live events or software tutorials, taking screenshots is a major part of the workflow. The standard Mac shortcuts are okay, but CleanShot X combined with Stream Deck is much faster. You can map a button to 'Capture Area' for your first shot. But the real timesaver is mapping a second button to **Capture Previous Area**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7b09013c286fd504ce556ce4b54272a5222f77b6101a00419a94edf1b091f606_4b55b05b.jpg) This lets you define a specific window or region once—like a YouTube video player—and then rapidly snap perfectly aligned screenshots just by tapping a button, without having to redraw the selection box every time. ## A few more things - You can now use multiple **Profiles** in Stream Deck to switch layouts (e.g., one for Studio, one for ATEM control) - Use **Bitfocus Companion** to control Blackmagic ATEM switchers over the network if you need complex video switching - Audio Hijack meters can live in your menu bar, giving you visual confirmation that you're recording without opening the app - You can program a knob click to trigger 'Picture in Picture' modes on your video switcher ## Start building your flow Automation isn't about being lazy; it's about reliability. When a single button handles your lights, audio, and screen recording, you stop worrying about the tech and start focusing on the content. Start small with one or two shortcuts, and build out your profile as you find more friction points in your day. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into connecting Apple Shortcuts to Stream Deck # Deep dive into connecting Apple Shortcuts to Stream Deck

Automation is powerful, but having to dig through menus to trigger it defeats the purpose. The real magic happens when you can control your entire digital environment—lights, apps, audio, and windows—with a single physical button press. That's why we're focusing on the deep integration between Apple Shortcuts and the Elgato Stream Deck. Whether you have the original 15-key model or the new Stream Deck+ with dials, connecting these two tools opens up workflows that simply aren't possible with standard plugins. In this post, we'll walk through exactly how to set this up. We'll start with the basic connection, move to the new dial controls on the Plus model, and then dive into some advanced integrations for podcasting and hardware control. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## Bringing Shortcuts to your buttons While there are plugins available, the most reliable way to trigger a complex macOS Shortcut is to turn it into an applet first. This ensures it runs smoothly every time without hanging the Stream Deck software. ### How to set it up 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app on your Mac and find the shortcut you want to use 2. Right-click the shortcut and select **Add to Dock** 3. In your Dock, right-click the new icon, hold **Options**, and select **Show in Finder** 4. This reveals a folder with your shortcut apps. Simply drag and drop that file onto a button in your Stream Deck configuration window ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bc14b995802893d30d690d1d72472779fcad3fae371de0f05ceeaa8cda568613_a60c5815.jpg) Once you drop it in, the button will instantly launch that Shortcut just like any other application. It's fast, reliable, and keeps your automations organized. ## Doing more with dials If you're using the Stream Deck+, you have access to the new knobs. These aren't just for volume. Using the **Action Trigger** feature, you can assign three distinct functions to a single dial. ### Configuring Action Triggers 1. In the Stream Deck software, drag **Action Trigger** onto one of the dial slots 2. Click the dial to configure. You'll see three slots: **Push**, **Rotate Left**, and **Rotate Right** 3. Drag actions into these slots. For example, use **Next Page** for rotation to navigate your profiles without using a button 4. For the **Push** action, you can trigger a Shortcut or toggle a mute state ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1aaf7a33b0ccfa25e64b1fe1a9cce30e0ce880ce8cdcd37edfb6ab6ec53bdb24_26d07957.jpg) Pro tip: Pin your navigation dial. You can set one dial to always handle page navigation regardless of which page you're on, giving you a consistent physical control for moving through your workflow. ## The one-button studio workflow This is where things get really interesting. By combining Shortcuts with Stream Deck, you can chain together complex sequences that prepare your entire environment for work. ### What you can automate Here are a few ways to use this integration to speed up your production: - **Smart Lighting:** Create buttons for "Video Blue" or "Video Orange" that set specific HomeKit scenes, adjusting your key lights and background accents instantly - **App Launching:** Trigger a Shortcut that opens specific apps (like Riverside in Brave browser and Notion for notes) and automatically tiles them in a split-screen view - **Audio Recording:** Use the integration to trigger Audio Hijack sessions in the background, ensuring your backup recording starts exactly when you need it - **Shutdown Protocol:** A single "Done Recording" button that stops the audio session, closes your heavy apps, raises the blinds, and resets your lights to normal ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ff74c4937c0c4e323e1c74ca6bb27d9f536f0ddddaad97c12963f2ed028cebcb_886c2f41.png) ## Controlling hardware with MIDI For gear that doesn't have a direct plugin, MIDI is the universal language. We've used this to connect the Stream Deck directly to the Roadcaster Pro II, allowing for precise control over channel muting and more. ### Setting up the link 1. Install the **Generic MIDI** plugin from the Stream Deck store 2. On your Roadcaster Pro II, go to **System > MIDI** and enable MIDI Control 3. Back on the Stream Deck, drag a MIDI action onto a button 4. Set the **Midi Out Port** to your Roadcaster Pro II 5. Configure the specific command (like Command 27 for Mute) to control your hardware ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c552ed7f94ff6b83d4751d5883418e8d7c28691e88590b7fe9abd483097da5d8_e1bdde58.png) This lets you keep your mixing board off your desk but still retain critical controls right at your fingertips. ## A few more things - We've added Bitfocus Companion support for advanced users needing detailed ATEM switcher control - CleanShot X integration allows you to map specific capture modes, like "Capture Previous Area," to physical buttons - You can now create specific profiles for different hardware (like an ATEM profile) and switch between them instantly ## Start building Whether you're automating a complex studio or just want a faster way to arrange your windows, connecting Shortcuts to Stream Deck is a game changer. It takes a few minutes to set up, but the time you save every day is worth it. Give it a try and see what workflows you can simplify. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into controlling Audio Hijack sessions # Deep dive into controlling Audio Hijack sessions

Streamline your audio recording workflow by controlling Audio Hijack directly from your Stream Deck. Thanks to deep integration with Apple Shortcuts, you can now start and stop your pre-configured recording sessions with a single button press, eliminating manual steps and ensuring you never miss a take. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new Audio Hijack now includes native Shortcut actions, allowing you to build powerful automations. The key new capability is the **Run/Stop Session** action, which lets you programmatically start or stop any of your saved Audio Hijack sessions. This action can be embedded into any shortcut, making it easy to trigger complex recording setups from your Stream Deck, a keyboard hotkey, or even Siri. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ca1a91fb4269eedb2c209b8057ac1b30f40215ac4d8a5b42423ba55532418699_25e2d3a8.jpg) ## Getting started 1. Open the **Shortcuts app** on your Mac and create a new shortcut. 2. In the action library, search for "Audio Hijack" and add the **Run/Stop Session** action to your workflow. 3. Click the session name (e.g., "Primary Tech Solo") and choose the specific session you wish to control from the list. 4. Set the status to **Running** to create a "start recording" shortcut, or **Planning** to create a "stop recording" shortcut. 5. Add the shortcut to your Dock, then drag it from the Dock into an open key on your **Stream Deck** configuration. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/13725d381b7cb647ee0fe1d256caaab49b2b7c506de333375629c57ac4e5b518_4e02483f.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **One-touch recording:** Start complex, multi-source audio sessions without needing to open or interact with the Audio Hijack application directly. - **Custom workflows:** Create dedicated buttons on your Stream Deck for different podcasts, voice-over work, or any other recording setup you use regularly. - **Multi-action automation:** Combine the Audio Hijack action with other steps in a single shortcut. For example, create a "Start Podcast" shortcut that sets your studio lights, opens your notes in Notion, launches your recording software, and starts your Audio Hijack session simultaneously. - **Reliable control:** Avoid errors by creating separate "start" and "stop" buttons, ensuring you never accidentally toggle a recording off. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For a complete podcasting setup, create a master shortcut that prepares your entire workspace. As shown in the video, a single button can trigger your HomeKit scene, open your web browser to a specific URL like Riverside.fm, arrange your windows in split-screen, start your Audio Hijack session, and even set a timer. This level of automation ensures a consistent and error-free setup every time you record. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5cc05c0cca84f109b590c824e652ae8a4e66021eba75dc82f5930deba0e3f312_0cc02023.jpg) ## Summary Integrating Audio Hijack with Shortcuts and the Stream Deck transforms your recording process into a simple, automated, one-click action. This powerful combination allows you to build reliable and customized workflows that save time, reduce the chance of manual errors, and let you focus entirely on creating your content. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Control an ATEM Video Switcher with Stream Deck # How to Control an ATEM Video Switcher with Stream Deck

This guide will show you how to control your Blackmagic ATEM video switcher directly from your Stream Deck. By creating dedicated profiles, you can switch between camera inputs, set preview sources, and trigger actions like picture-in-picture with a single button press. To follow these steps, you will need your ATEM switcher connected to your network via Ethernet and the Bitfocus Companion app installed. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** 1. Open the Stream Deck software on your Mac. It's recommended to create a dedicated profile for ATEM controls to keep them separate from your other shortcuts and actions. 2. To switch between your main profile and the ATEM profile, add a **Switch Profile** action to a button or knob. Configure one on each profile to allow you to toggle back and forth. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7537d53fb82e625e507c42f8ca051f3162c9299675b9f320bd24587faca7f53b_4cabe4fd.png) 3. Launch the Bitfocus Companion app. In the web interface, add a new connection and select **Blackmagic Design: ATEM**. 4. Enter the IP address of your ATEM switcher in the **Target IP** field to establish a connection. 5. Navigate to the **Buttons** tab in Companion. Program buttons for each function you want to control, such as switching to **Camera 1**, setting **Camera 2** as a preview source, or enabling **Picture-in-Picture (PIP)**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/578a9ba04359945b765a87e71ff8cc424312a7783ff0213ecb9b667c71cc7e1b_3d11431d.jpg) 6. In the Stream Deck software, go to your ATEM profile. Find the **Bitfocus Companion** plugin on the right-hand side and drag the **Companion Button** action onto your layout. 7. Assign the buttons you created in Companion to the keys on your Stream Deck. You can now control your ATEM switcher's program and preview outputs, trigger auto-transitions, and manage picture-in-picture, all from your Stream Deck. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1658f8882b34ea115add227e089c23fb438572ae03885ab262b3b6a0d5fe8687_cf0bc8c6.jpg) ### Tips Using Stream Deck with Companion allows for controls not available on the physical ATEM Mini panel, such as assigning a specific source to the preview window without making it live. ## Summary This article demonstrates how to gain advanced control over an ATEM video switcher by integrating it with a Stream Deck via the Bitfocus Companion app. By creating dedicated profiles, users can program and execute complex video switching commands, manage preview and program sources, and trigger features like picture-in-picture, all from a centralized, customizable interface. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() ## Related - [Overview: Automating your studio with Stream Deck and Shortcuts](/whats-new-studio-automation-with-stream-deck-shortcuts/overview-automating-your-studio-with-stream-deck-and-shortcu) - [How to Automate HomeKit Scenes for Video and Podcasts with Stream Deck](#article-10369) - [Deep dive into creating multi-step podcasting workflows](/whats-new-studio-automation-with-stream-deck-shortcuts/how-to-create-multi-step-podcasting-workflows-with-stream-de) --- ### Deep dive into controlling audio interfaces with MIDI # Deep dive into controlling audio interfaces with MIDI

Go beyond software automation and take direct control of your physical audio hardware. With the new Generic MIDI plugin, you can now use your Stream Deck to send commands to MIDI-enabled devices like the RØDECaster Pro II. This allows you to centralize your entire podcasting or streaming workflow, controlling everything from your smart lights to your audio interface from a single panel. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This update introduces a powerful, free **Generic MIDI** plugin, which you can install from the Stream Deck plugin store. This adds a new category of actions that can send specific MIDI commands to connected hardware. You can now configure a key to perform actions like muting a specific channel on your audio mixer by setting its **Channel**, **Command**, and **Button type**. The plugin also lets you select your hardware directly from the **Midi ports** dropdown to ensure commands are sent to the correct device. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7490a9c5855191286815db8093835a71f1828127f2685e07eb9bd7abe606e98c_b042338c.png) ## Getting started with MIDI control 1. First, ensure MIDI control is enabled on your audio interface. For the RØDECaster Pro II, you can enable this in the RØDE Central app under **System > MIDI**. 2. Install the free **Generic MIDI** plugin from the Stream Deck plugin store by searching for "MIDI". 3. Drag a MIDI action, such as **CC/NRPN (Legacy)**, onto an empty key on your Stream Deck layout. 4. Configure the action. Give it a title, select the target **Channel** (e.g., 1 for your first microphone), and enter the correct **Command** for the desired action (e.g., `27` to toggle mute on the RØDECaster Pro II). 5. Expand the **Midi ports** section and select your audio interface as both the **Midi Out port** and **Midi In port**. 6. Press the key on your Stream Deck to test the command. You should see the corresponding change on your audio hardware, such as the channel's mute button lighting up. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a3acb6caad44fe7ae96b008c83d8fa6b9f5f1e50bfeb7b861dfd98c38194920a_6349331c.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Mute and Unmute Channels**: Instantly mute your microphone or any other audio channel with a single keypress, perfect for when you need to cough or have a side conversation during a live stream. - **Trigger Sound Effects**: Program keys to trigger sound pads on your mixer for live sound effects during a podcast. - **Centralize Your Controls**: Manage your audio interface alongside your video switcher, lighting, and software applications without ever leaving your Stream Deck. - **Create Complex Macros**: Combine a MIDI command with other Stream Deck actions, such as a Shortcut, to build powerful, one-touch automations for starting or ending your show. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature MIDI command numbers are specific to each hardware device. To find the correct command for a function like 'mute', check the manufacturer's documentation for your audio interface. For the RØDECaster Pro II, command `27` toggles the mute state for the selected channel. ## Summary The Generic MIDI plugin bridges the physical and digital worlds, turning your Stream Deck into a universal remote for your entire production setup. By bringing hardware audio control into your automated workflow, you can create a more seamless and professional production experience with less manual effort. This integration is a game-changer for anyone looking to simplify complex audio and video setups. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Create Multi-Step Podcasting Workflows with Stream Deck # How to Create Multi-Step Podcasting Workflows with Stream Deck

This guide shows you how to create a powerful, multi-step workflow that prepares your entire studio for a podcast recording with a single button press. You will learn how to combine several actions into one Apple Shortcut and trigger it from your Stream Deck. You will need a Stream Deck, the Shortcuts app on your Mac, and any applications you wish to automate, such as Notion, a web browser, and Audio Hijack. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app on your Mac and create a new shortcut. Name it something descriptive, like "Start Podcast". 2. Add a **Set Scenes and Accessories** action to activate your desired HomeKit scene for recording (e.g., dimming lights, closing shades). 3. Add a **Run Shell Script** action. Use the command `open -a "Brave Browser" "https://your-riverside-url"` to open your podcast recording software in a specific browser. 4. Add a **Split screen between** action to arrange your show notes (e.g., in Notion) and your recording software side-by-side. 5. Add a **Set the session** action from Audio Hijack and set it to your primary recording session and change the status to **Running**. This will start your local audio backup. 6. Optionally, add a **Turn Filming On** action to activate a Focus Mode and an **Add to Date** action to set a timer for your recording session. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7f9838a90ea940c61ff9dc9d368c9adcb421a5c7025cf8e37f9652ebb8e829d9_1a3837fe.jpg) 7. With your shortcut created, go to **File** > **Add to Dock** in the Shortcuts app. 8. Right-click the new shortcut icon in your Dock, go to **Options**, and select **Show in Finder**. 9. Open the **Stream Deck** configuration app. Drag the shortcut file from the Finder window directly onto an empty button on your Stream Deck. 10. Create a second shortcut for ending your podcast (e.g., "Stop Podcast") that stops the Audio Hijack session and runs a "Done Recording" HomeKit scene. Add this shortcut to another button on your Stream Deck using the same method. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/344c2cd10468fadca095b4f0f4310b0647ff881fe2b8893e3fc0d038bb97c4e0_8d395b52.jpg) ## Summary This article demonstrates how to build and trigger comprehensive, multi-step podcasting workflows. By combining actions for smart home scenes, application launching, window management, and audio recording into a single Apple Shortcut, you can fully automate your studio setup and teardown process with the press of a button on your Stream Deck. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() ## Related - [Overview: Automating your studio with Stream Deck and Shortcuts](/whats-new-studio-automation-with-stream-deck-shortcuts/overview-automating-your-studio-with-stream-deck-and-shortcu) - [Deep dive into connecting Apple Shortcuts to Stream Deck](/whats-new-studio-automation-with-stream-deck-shortcuts/deep-dive-into-connecting-apple-shortcuts-to-stream-deck) - [Deep dive into controlling Audio Hijack sessions](/whats-new-studio-automation-with-stream-deck-shortcuts/deep-dive-into-controlling-audio-hijack-sessions) - [How to Automate HomeKit Scenes for Video and Podcasts with Stream Deck](#article-10369) --- ### How to Automate Screen Captures with CleanShot X and Stream Deck # How to Automate Screen Captures with CleanShot X and Stream Deck This guide will show you how to automate your screen capture workflow by integrating CleanShot X with your Stream Deck. This is incredibly useful for capturing specific screen areas repeatedly, such as during a live stream or video recording. You will need CleanShot X installed on your Mac and a connected Stream Deck. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** 1. First, create a custom hotkey in CleanShot X for the capture action you want to automate. For example, to capture a specific area, you can assign a hotkey to the **Capture Area** action within the CleanShot X settings. 2. Open the Stream Deck application on your Mac. In the right-hand panel, find the **System** section and drag the **Hotkey** action onto an available button on your Stream Deck layout. 3. Configure the button by assigning it a title, such as "Cap Area." In the **Hotkey** field below, record the exact same key combination you set up in CleanShot X. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c3773fe5507bf3807c59d9b7d38f697c1e44fb4342906d7a52fb9eb7a995eac4_df220859.jpg) 4. For even greater efficiency, repeat the process for the **Capture Previous Area** action. Create another hotkey in CleanShot X and assign it to a new button on your Stream Deck. This allows you to instantly capture the exact same screen region again with a single button press. 5. You can also add a hotkey for starting a full **Screen Recording** directly from your Stream Deck, streamlining your video creation process. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c4f75ca1415fb69449351c3f2d5613a5d21aad7f640701ef44feede33fd14732_99587832.jpg) ## Summary This article explains how to streamline your screen capture workflow by assigning CleanShot X actions to your Stream Deck. By setting up hotkeys for actions like 'Capture Area' and 'Capture Previous Area,' you can take consistent screenshots instantly, which is ideal for live events and video production. This automation saves time and eliminates the need for manual selection for every capture. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() ## Related - [Overview: Automating your studio with Stream Deck and Shortcuts](/whats-new-studio-automation-with-stream-deck-shortcuts/overview-automating-your-studio-with-stream-deck-and-shortcu) - [Deep dive into connecting Apple Shortcuts to Stream Deck](/whats-new-studio-automation-with-stream-deck-shortcuts/deep-dive-into-connecting-apple-shortcuts-to-stream-deck) - [Deep dive into creating multi-step podcasting workflows](/whats-new-studio-automation-with-stream-deck-shortcuts/how-to-create-multi-step-podcasting-workflows-with-stream-de) --- ## The best ChatGPT prompts I use in my creator workflow ### Overview: My Favorite ChatGPT Prompts for Content Creation # Overview: My Favorite ChatGPT Prompts for Content Creation

**🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** **** If you're looking to leverage AI to handle the tedious parts of creation so you can focus on the actual content, this overview is for you. I honestly could not produce the amount of content I do—videos, podcasts, and daily updates—without these prompts. They speed up my entire workflow. In this post, I'm going to show you exactly how I use ChatGPT. We'll look at everything from the Mac app to Custom GPTs I've trained specifically for my voice. Plus, I'll break down the advanced automation running in my Apple Shortcuts that helps me churn out show notes and summaries in seconds. ## Meet the YouTube Sidekick This is probably the most important tool in my arsenal. I created a custom GPT called **YouTube Sidekick**. I trained it on my own videos and voice so it knows exactly how I like to formulate titles, descriptions, and tags. I use this every single time I make a video. ### How it works 1. Transcribe your video audio first. I use Transcriptionist to get the text while the video exports 2. Drop the transcript into the **YouTube Sidekick** GPT in the ChatGPT Mac app 3. Run my optimization prompt. It asks for an optimized title, a two-sentence description, and comma-separated tags under 500 characters 4. Review the output. It even identifies other videos mentioned in the transcript so I can link them in the end cards ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a2eb407c24615ac390ea2a526d30e4de62d20730168b0a08dd26355d1712200a_48ea7324.jpg) Pro tip: Don't settle for the first title. I usually ask it for "10 more titles like this" to get variations. Since YouTube allows A/B testing now, I'll grab three distinct options to test against each other. ## The Summary Scout For my daily podcast, I need summaries that sound like a news anchor reading them, not a robot. That's where **Summary Scout** comes in. It's trained to digest articles and spit out concise, readable paragraphs. ### A quick workflow 1. Open an article in **Safari** and enter **Reader Mode** to strip out the clutter 2. Select all text and copy it to your clipboard 3. Open ChatGPT and type your shortcut (I use ";sgpt" via TextExpander) 4. This pastes the article text with the instruction: "Summarize the following article into one paragraph" ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e9076cfa24a0259a3c6ca01c4fe558d49a1a85b93dfd2c4efb75bd45b1c7b89d_f00beef6.jpg) ## Building advanced shortcuts with AI I'm not an expert in APIs or JSON, but ChatGPT is. I have a **Shortcuts GPT** that helps me build sophisticated automations. I can feed it API documentation—like for the Movie Database or OpenFoodFacts—and it teaches me how to integrate that data into Apple Shortcuts. For example, I asked it to help me build a shortcut that pulls new movie release dates. It gave me a step-by-step guide on how to use the "Get Contents of URL" action, handle the headers, and parse the dictionary results. I've built dozens of tools this way that I couldn't have managed on my own. It's also amazing for Regex. If you need to match text—like extracting an MP3 file URL from an RSS feed—just give the feed to the GPT. It will write the exact Regex string you need to paste into the **Match Text** action. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8302ebc935d9bbb262e2bf9d3cbf198ec297c69d76af56430e6d2232c625e14b_ae7722f3.jpg) ## Automating daily news and show notes This is where we combine everything into a mega-workflow. For my show *Primary Technology*, I have a shortcut called **PTS Daily News**. It pulls stories from tech news sites, filters them for today's date, and lets me pick the top 5. Here's the cool part: inside the shortcut, I use the Apple Intelligence "Use Model" action. It sends the article text to ChatGPT with a specific prompt to remove fluff and focus on devices and people. It then appends a clean summary, title, and formatted links directly into a **Bear** note. ### Instant show notes generation - Create a **Tab Group** in Safari for the episode's topics - Click **Copy Links** on the tab group to grab all URLs at once - Run the **PTS Notes** shortcut from the menu bar - The shortcut identifies the topics, sends headlines to ChatGPT to generate an SEO-optimized title and description, and formats everything into HTML for the blog and rich text for YouTube ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/77f25a1d7dce261815b2da672f217ee72114a9b83339de6eb087d85b3e1f4683_81ca7512.jpg) ## Start playing That's a look at how I use AI to keep the content engine running. Whether it's training a custom GPT on your own voice or using it to write code for Shortcuts, these tools save hours of manual work. If you want to grab any of these shortcuts or try the custom GPTs yourself, you can join the community at **shortcut.bot**. I stream live builds there and share new shortcuts every week. Give these prompts a shot and see how much time they save you. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Automate YouTube Video Metadata with a Custom GPT # How to Automate YouTube Video Metadata with a Custom GPT This guide demonstrates how to automate the generation of essential YouTube video metadata, including optimized titles, descriptions, and tags. By using a custom 'YouTube Sidekick' GPT, you can streamline your content creation workflow and improve your video's discoverability. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** You will need a text transcript of your video to begin. 1. Navigate to your custom 'YouTube Sidekick' GPT within the ChatGPT application. 2. Upload your video transcript by dragging the text file directly into the chat window. 3. Enter the following prompt to generate your initial metadata package: **Write a YouTube optimized video title, two sentence description, and tags in a comma separated format based on the following video transcript. Tags must be less than 500 characters total in a comma separated list. Finally, at the end of each video, I plug two other videos from the channel. Let me know the possible titles for those two videos I mention, and which one is mentioned first.** ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a2eb407c24615ac390ea2a526d30e4de62d20730168b0a08dd26355d1712200a_48ea7324.jpg) 4. Review the generated **Title**, **Description**, and **Tags**. The AI will also identify any other videos you mentioned that can be used for your end screen. 5. To refine the title, copy one of the suggestions you like best. 6. Enter a new prompt to generate more variations, such as: Give me ten more **titles like this: [Paste your selected title here]** 7. Repeat this process until you have a few strong title options suitable for A/B testing on YouTube. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/909379916feb26fbafe26147af146dd1abfb59546dae2a3235a1bc5c44bdc64a_d68bc645.jpg) ### Tips For best results, train your custom GPT on your existing videos and channel style. This helps the AI learn your unique voice and formatting preferences, leading to more consistent and effective metadata generation. ## Summary This article explains how to use a custom-trained GPT to automate the creation of YouTube video metadata. By providing a video transcript and a specific prompt, you can quickly generate an optimized title, description, tags, and end-screen video suggestions, significantly speeding up your publishing workflow. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() ## Related - [Overview: My Favorite ChatGPT Prompts for Content Creation](/whats-new-my-favorite-chatgpt-prompts/overview-my-favorite-chatgpt-prompts-for-content-creation) - [Deep dive into generating thumbnail headlines with ChatGPT](/whats-new-my-favorite-chatgpt-prompts/deep-dive-into-generating-thumbnail-headlines-with-chatgpt) - [Deep dive into automating podcast show notes from Safari tabs](/whats-new-my-favorite-chatgpt-prompts/deep-dive-into-automating-podcast-show-notes-from-safari-tab) --- ### Deep dive into generating thumbnail headlines with ChatGPT # Deep dive into generating thumbnail headlines with ChatGPT Optimize your video's first impression by generating short, impactful headlines for your thumbnails directly from ChatGPT. This feature helps you quickly create compelling text that grabs viewer attention by leveraging the AI's understanding of your video's content. It's designed to overcome creative blocks and produce concise headlines ideal for thumbnail designs. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## The feature After generating your video's primary metadata like titles and descriptions, you can now issue a follow-up prompt to your custom **YT Sidekick** GPT to get a list of two-to-three word headlines. The AI uses the full context of your video transcript to suggest punchy, relevant text, often grouping them into categories like 'Utility/Power Focused' or 'Curiosity & Engagement' to help you choose the best angle for your audience. ## How to use this feature 1. First, upload your video transcript to your **YT Sidekick** custom GPT and generate the initial video title, description, and tags. 2. In the same chat session, enter the prompt: What are some 2-3 word **headlines I could place on a thumbnail for this video?** 3. ChatGPT will provide a list of short headline ideas based on the transcript's content. 4. Review the suggestions and choose the one that best fits your thumbnail's visual design and your video's core message. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6a409c7ea434c618a5ef55b064a50efc1cb5b429d3f488bae11e4a1174e2715b_f2a09330.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Contextual Headline Generation:** Creates headlines that are directly relevant to the topics discussed in your video transcript. - **Optimized for Brevity:** Focuses on generating two-to-three word phrases that are easy to read on a small thumbnail. - **Categorized Suggestions:** The AI often organizes headline ideas by theme, such as utility, curiosity, or a specific feature focus, helping you refine your click-through strategy. - **Accelerated Creativity:** Instantly provides a variety of ideas, saving you time on brainstorming thumbnail text. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results, pair the generated text with a strong, clear visual that complements the headline. If the initial suggestions aren't quite right, you can ask ChatGPT to refine them. For example, try asking for headlines that are 'more exciting' or 'more mysterious' to steer the AI toward a specific tone. ## Summary Generating thumbnail headlines with ChatGPT is a simple yet powerful step in your video production workflow. It transforms the often difficult task of writing thumbnail copy into a quick, automated process, providing you with context-aware and click-worthy text suggestions that enhance your video's visibility and appeal. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into using a 'Summary Scout' GPT for podcast summaries # Deep dive into using a 'Summary Scout' GPT for podcast summaries The 'Summary Scout' is a custom-trained GPT designed to transform lengthy news articles into concise, podcast-ready summaries. It solves the time-consuming problem of manually reading and summarizing multiple sources for daily news shows. By training the GPT to adopt a specific "news anchor" tone, you can generate consistent, professional-sounding scripts in seconds, streamlining your content creation workflow. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** This feature showcases the power of creating your own custom GPT for specific tasks. The **Summary Scout** is a new, specialized tool available under your **GPTs** menu in ChatGPT. It has been pre-configured with instructions to analyze text and produce summaries with a particular voice and style, meaning you don't need to write a long, detailed prompt every time you use it. Simply provide the article text, and the GPT handles the rest. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0bdf3d03c396c57544623a9f3dba597c957b1133793aa641f7eeb09a8ba3c206_1993c84c.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Find a news article you wish to summarize. For the cleanest text, switch your browser to **Reader Mode**. 2. Select and copy the entire text of the article to your clipboard. 3. Open the ChatGPT app and select your **Summary Scout** from the list of custom GPTs. 4. Type a simple instruction, such as "Summarize the following article in one paragraph:", then paste the copied text into the message box. 5. Send the message to generate a concise, professionally toned summary ready for use. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5eba0c39027c6211076e469d76a7e398d0e8f0e4d570dfc01f26a72b1c7fc00a_9db7733e.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Consistent Tone:** Automatically generates summaries in a specific, pre-defined style, such as a formal news anchor, ensuring consistency across your content. - **Workflow Automation:** Reduces manual effort and saves hours of preparation time, especially for creators producing daily news content. - **Simplified Prompting:** Because the GPT is custom-trained, it requires only a minimal prompt to perform its task effectively, making it fast and easy to use. - **Seamless Integration:** Works perfectly with tools like text expanders, allowing you to create powerful, single-command workflows for summarizing content on the fly. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To ensure the highest quality summaries, always provide clean article text by using your browser's **Reader Mode**. This strips out ads, navigation links, and other irrelevant elements that could confuse the AI. You can also speed up the process by creating a text expansion snippet that combines your prompt and clipboard content, allowing you to generate a summary with just a few keystrokes. ## Summary The 'Summary Scout' custom GPT is an excellent example of how you can tailor AI to fit a specific content creation workflow. By automating the tedious task of summarizing articles and enforcing a consistent tone, it allows you to produce high-quality news podcasts more efficiently. This tool turns hours of prep work into a simple copy-and-paste action, giving you more time to focus on recording and engaging with your audience. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into building a 'ShortcutsGPT' for API and Regex help # Deep dive into building a 'ShortcutsGPT' for API and Regex help Unlock the full potential of your automations by creating a personalized 'ShortcutsGPT,' a custom version of ChatGPT trained to assist with complex tasks like API integration and Regex. This feature solves the common challenge of working with unfamiliar code or technical documentation, acting as a personal assistant that understands how to build advanced shortcuts. By teaching your GPT about specific APIs, you can get step-by-step guidance without needing to be a developer. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## The feature You can now train a custom GPT on specific knowledge bases, like API documentation, to make it an expert in a particular domain. By providing a link to an API's documentation, the GPT learns its endpoints, parameters, and authentication methods. This allows you to ask for help in plain English, and it will generate the necessary steps, code snippets, or Regex patterns needed to build your shortcut. This training process turns a general AI into a specialized tool tailored to your automation needs. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ebb6a7405db7572663eb27eddb52e8cb50fdaca3136e4ba4fff50fee3023a7da_9d65fb74.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. In the ChatGPT web interface, select your custom GPT and choose to edit it. 2. Paste a link to the API documentation you want it to learn into the chat prompt. 3. Instruct the GPT to learn from the documentation. For example, type 'Learn everything about this barcode scanning API'. 4. Once it processes the information, click **Update** to save the new knowledge to your custom GPT. 5. Ask for help building a shortcut by describing what you want to achieve, referencing the API it just learned. For example, 'Help me build a Shortcut that pulls new movie release dates using the MovieDB API.' 6. For Regex, ask for the specific text string needed for the **Match Text** action. For example, 'What is the match text string to pull the enclosure URL of an MP3 file in an RSS feed?' ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8302ebc935d9bbb262e2bf9d3cbf198ec297c69d76af56430e6d2232c625e14b_ae7722f3.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automate Shortcut Creation:** Get detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to structure a new shortcut, including which actions to use and how to configure them. - **Simplify API Integration:** Let the GPT handle the complexity of API calls. It can tell you how to format a dictionary for the **Get Contents of URL** action, including keys, values, and authentication. - **Master Regex:** Generate complex regular expressions (Regex) for the **Match Text** action by simply describing the text you want to extract. No need to learn Regex syntax yourself. - **Continuous Learning:** Your ShortcutsGPT becomes more powerful over time as you feed it more API documentation and examples, creating a personalized knowledge base for all your projects. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature When asking for help, be as specific as possible. Instead of a general request, provide context about the goal of your shortcut and the particular API you're using. This helps the GPT give you a more accurate and complete set of instructions. Regularly update your GPT with new API documentation to keep its knowledge current and expand its capabilities for future projects. ## Summary Building a 'ShortcutsGPT' transforms how you create advanced automations by turning a complex technical process into a simple conversation. It acts as an expert assistant, helping you integrate APIs and use Regex without requiring you to write any code. This feature dramatically lowers the barrier to creating powerful, custom shortcuts and saves you hours of research and troubleshooting. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating a daily news report with RSS and AI # Deep dive into creating a daily news report with RSS and AI Manually gathering, summarizing, and formatting news from multiple sources for a daily report is a time-consuming task. This new automated workflow leverages the power of RSS and AI to transform that process, allowing you to generate a structured news brief, complete with individual story summaries and a podcast-ready title, in just a few minutes. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The **PTS Daily News** shortcut is a powerful new automation that handles the end-to-end creation of a daily news report. It aggregates articles from your favorite news sources using their RSS feeds, filters them to show only today's stories, and lets you curate the final list. The shortcut then uses the **Use Model** action with ChatGPT to intelligently summarize each article and generate an overarching title and description for the episode, saving the final output to a new note. ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **PTS Daily News** shortcut and customize the **Get RSS Items** actions with the URLs for your preferred news sources. 2. Run the shortcut from the app or pin it to your **Menu Bar** for quick access. 3. Select the articles you want to include from the prompts for each news source. The shortcut will process these in the background. 4. Once complete, a new note is created in your notes app containing the AI-generated podcast title, description, formatted links, and individual story summaries. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1027dca7f943ff6334bc288c37579ecb764635c694ff09d89815861226cf8b02_c3778b65.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Aggregate multiple sources:** Pull news from any number of RSS feeds into a single, unified workflow. - **Automated content curation:** Automatically filter articles by publication date and manually select the top stories, giving you full editorial control over the final report. - **AI-powered summarization:** Generate a concise one-paragraph summary for each article, cutting out fluff while retaining key details like names, products, and software. - **Generate podcast metadata:** Automatically create a podcast-ready title and a 2-3 sentence episode description based on the headlines of your selected articles. - **Structured output:** Organizes all generated content—including a master title, description, formatted links, and individual summaries—into a single, clean note for easy reference and recording. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature You can fully customize the AI prompts to match your desired tone and format. The default prompts are designed for a direct, news-style delivery, but you can edit the text in the **Use Model** actions to be more casual, detailed, or formatted differently. You can also change the final action to save the output to Apple Notes, copy it to the clipboard, or send it to another app. ## Summary The Daily News Report automation transforms a time-intensive research and writing task into a streamlined process that takes just minutes. By combining RSS for content aggregation and AI for summarization and metadata creation, you can consistently produce high-quality daily news briefings for podcasts or newsletters with minimal manual effort. This workflow demonstrates how powerful automations can be when integrated with AI to boost your content creation productivity. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into automating podcast show notes from Safari tabs # Deep dive into automating podcast show notes from Safari tabs Creating comprehensive podcast show notes is a time-consuming but essential task. This new workflow automates the entire process, from collecting links to generating an episode title and description, by leveraging Safari Tab Groups and a powerful new shortcut. You can now transform a collection of open tabs into fully formatted show notes in seconds, freeing you up to focus on creating great content. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The new **PTS Notes** shortcut is designed to streamline your post-production workflow. By organizing all articles and web pages for an episode into a dedicated Safari Tab Group, you can copy all the URLs at once. The shortcut then takes this list from your clipboard, fetches the title of each page, formats them into both HTML and rich text, and uses AI to generate an SEO-optimized episode title and description based on the topics you select. ## How to use this feature 1. In Safari, organize all the web pages for your podcast episode into a new **Tab Group**. 2. Right-click on the **Tab Group** in the sidebar and select **Copy Links** to copy all URLs to your clipboard. 3. Run the **PTS Notes** shortcut, for example, from the macOS menu bar. 4. A menu will appear with the titles of all the articles. Select the main topics you want the AI to focus on for the title and description. 5. The shortcut will process the links and AI prompts, then create a new note in your preferred app (e.g., Bear) with the formatted title, description, and show notes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a2ef9c02d6848ec3d6e6c2a0569a823c4aedd9daee825071c89e1073292ed088_b926165b.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Batch Processing:** Instantly process dozens of links from a Safari Tab Group without manual copy-pasting. - **Automatic Title Fetching:** The shortcut automatically gets the web page title for each URL, creating clean, readable links. - **Dual-Format Output:** Generates show notes in both HTML (for podcast hosting platforms) and rich text (for YouTube descriptions or blogs). - **AI-Powered Summarization:** Uses ChatGPT to write a compelling, SEO-optimized podcast title and description based on the articles you select as the main topics. - **Workflow Integration:** Creates a new, fully prepared note in an app like Bear, ready for final review and publishing. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/03f059fffa426361f099519c3170a7281fb1ef5ae17a97eac3788bf2a0420166_c6e837c4.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For maximum efficiency, create a new Tab Group for each podcast episode as you do your research. Name the group after the episode number (e.g., "PTS 103") to keep things organized. While the AI-generated title and description provide a great starting point, always review and tweak them to match your show's unique voice and style. ## Summary Automating podcast show notes from Safari tabs is a massive time-saver for any content creator. This feature turns the tedious task of collecting, formatting, and summarizing links into a simple, two-click process. By integrating link collection with AI-powered content generation, you can produce high-quality, consistent show notes for every episode with minimal effort. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## AirPods Pro Tips & New Features for iOS26 ### Overview: AirPods Pro tips & new iOS features # Overview: AirPods Pro tips & new iOS 26 features

Your AirPods Pro can do a lot more than just play music. With the latest updates in iOS 26, Apple has quietly added a stack of new settings and features that give you way more control over your audio experience. From answering calls with a nod to keeping your car from hijacking your Bluetooth connection, there is a lot to uncover here. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** I've dug through the menus to find the most useful changes. Some of these solve long-standing annoyances—like audio cutting out when you get in the car—while others, like the new camera remote feature, add capabilities you probably didn't know you had. In this post, we'll walk through the best new settings, how to configure them, and a powerful Shortcut automation that changes your noise control mode automatically when you get home. ## Take control of battery charging Battery health is huge for AirPods longevity. The new update brings the Optimized Charge Limit feature to AirPods Pro. By default, it might stop charging at 80% to preserve battery health. That's great for daily use, but not if you have a long flight ahead. ### How to force a full charge 1. Open the **Settings** app on your iPhone with your AirPods connected 2. Tap your **AirPods Pro** settings menu at the top 3. Scroll down and select **Battery** 4. Toggle **Optimized Charge Limit** off 5. Choose **Turn Off Until Tomorrow** if you just need a full charge for a trip, or turn it off permanently ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/fa57d8335bd338e58b8e76bca26666ebcecc6c84e50a19eadfd1fdfc78767008_5ae65092.jpg) Pro tip: While you are in there, toggle on **Charging Notifications**. Since the case sizes vary between models, you might find yourself needing to charge more often than you expect. This alert saves you from dead headphones. ## Stop your car from stealing your audio We've all been there. You're listening to a podcast on your AirPods, you start your car, and suddenly the audio cuts out because the phone connected to the car's Bluetooth. iOS 26 finally fixes this. There is a new setting that keeps the audio playing in your headphones, even when other Bluetooth devices connect. It is a game changer if you have Bluetooth speakers around the house or drive often. ### Here is how to set it up 1. Go to **Settings** and select **General** 2. Tap on **AirPlay & Continuity** 3. Find **Keep Audio with Headphones** and toggle it **On** Now, when you hop in the car, your podcast stays in your ears where it belongs. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/20d1a169031342a3e1ca98843bfed8a2bdc445074a441732dd4a38369f05a325_fa95fe2f.jpg) ## Hidden gestures and controls You probably use the stem squeeze to pause music, but there are two new ways to control your phone without touching it: Head Gestures and the Camera Remote. ### Nod to answer calls You can now accept a call by nodding your head 'yes' or decline it by shaking your head 'no'. It feels futuristic, but there is a catch—it only works if you have Announce Notifications enabled. 1. In your AirPods settings, scroll down to **Head Gestures** and turn them on 2. Important: Go to main **Settings** > **Siri & Search** > **Announce Notifications** 3. Make sure **Announce Calls** is toggled on ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6b0768b494cfea6d8f4cbf4bb58607a5dc2a5a184d34fb2e8914a4b827a7602c_92b1257b.jpg) ### Use AirPods as a camera remote This is perfect for group shots or selfies when you are holding the phone at a distance. You can set the stem press to act as a shutter button. 1. In AirPods settings, go to **Camera Remote** 2. Choose **Press Once** to snap a photo 3. Open your Camera app. Clicking your AirPod stem now takes the picture It works for video too—click to start recording, click again to stop. ## Smarter audio features iOS 26 introduces a few features that make the audio experience more intelligent, adapting to what you are doing and where you are. ### What you can try - **Pause Media When Falling Asleep:** If you listen to podcasts in bed, toggle this on in AirPods settings. It stops playback when the system detects you've drifted off so you don't lose your spot - **Personalized Volume:** This adjusts media volume based on environmental noise. Great for walking down busy streets, though you might want to turn it off if you find it too sensitive - **Live Translation:** Press and hold both stems to activate live translation mode. It now supports more languages like Korean, Portuguese, and Mandarin. You hear the translation in your ear while the other person sees text on your phone - **Ambient Music:** Add the "Ambient Music" control to your Control Center. It plays white noise, rain sounds, or ocean waves directly, no Apple Music subscription required ## Customize your noise control Adaptive Audio is great, but sometimes it lets in too much noise—or not enough. There is now a slider to fix that. In your AirPods settings under **Adaptive Audio**, you will find a customization slider. Drag it left to let in less noise (more quiet) or right to let in more sound. It helps dial in the feature for your specific environment. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d53e06344667458f2c7063d50bfe5063c944fb5e13c58602516b82de86b8f3c9_6a0f3821.jpg) ## Pro tip: Automate your listening mode Switching between Noise Cancellation and Transparency manually gets old. You can use the Shortcuts app to do it for you based on location or WiFi connection. Here is a quick recipe: Create a Personal Automation in the Shortcuts app. Set the trigger to "When I join [Home WiFi Network]". Add the action **Set Noise Control Mode** and change it to **Transparency**. Now, whenever you walk in the door and your phone connects to WiFi, your AirPods effectively "open up" so you can hear your family. ## Over to you That covers the heavy hitters for this update. Whether you are using the new head gestures or just enjoying uninterrupted audio in the car, these features make the AirPods Pro feel like a significantly smarter device. Jump into your settings and toggle a few of these on. The "Keep Audio with Headphones" setting alone is worth the update. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Battery management features # Deep dive into Battery management features This update introduces new battery management features for your AirPods Pro, giving you more control over how they charge. With Optimized Charge Limit and Charging Notifications, you can extend the lifespan of your battery and get helpful reminders to ensure your AirPods are always ready when you need them. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new We've added a dedicated **Battery** section in your AirPods settings, which includes two new key features. The first is **Optimized Charge Limit**, a smart feature that helps reduce battery aging by learning your daily usage and limiting the charge to 80% until you need it. The second is **Charging Notifications**, which sends you an alert when your AirPods or their case have a low battery, so you never forget to charge them. ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Settings** app on your iPhone while your AirPods are connected. 2. Tap on your AirPods' name at the top of the settings menu. 3. Scroll down and select the new **Battery** section. 4. From this screen, you can toggle **Optimized Charge Limit** and **Charging Notifications** on or off. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3f06f75eb0af6096207da1245fc20fd64f2016573dce1ef8bbb63f6bcf2186f5_3dffbc4e.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Extend Battery Lifespan:** The **Optimized Charge Limit** feature helps preserve your battery's health by preventing it from sitting at a 100% charge for extended periods. It intelligently holds the charge at 80% and then completes charging before you typically start using them. - **Override for a Full Charge:** If you need a full 100% charge for a long day or a trip, you can easily override the 80% limit. Simply tap the **Charge to Full Now** button on the battery pop-up, or temporarily disable the feature in settings. - **Stay Informed with Notifications:** Enable **Charging Notifications** to receive alerts on your iPhone when either your AirPods or the charging case battery is low. This helps you remember to charge them before you run out of power. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/72ac0f09bca47ff7449f55f2c5add2e18bd09cf4119d85b1581b5aed7b6a3a3c_c0743139.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature If you are preparing for travel and want to ensure your AirPods are fully charged, you don't need to permanently disable optimized charging. When you go into the **Battery** settings, you can select **Turn Off Until Tomorrow**. This gives you a full charge for your trip while allowing the battery-saving feature to resume automatically the next day. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/11b4bb23742f7e18c420cc5b75b3198815d10c45cc1bc44351836c271a3ab760_8c40df97.jpg) ## Summary The new battery management features provide intelligent tools to improve the long-term health and daily convenience of your AirPods Pro. By using **Optimized Charge Limit**, you can reduce battery aging, and with **Charging Notifications**, you'll always know when it's time to power up. These settings give you greater control and peace of mind over your device's battery performance. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Keeping audio in your AirPods # Deep dive into Keeping audio in your AirPods Have you ever been listening to a podcast on your AirPods, gotten into your car, and had the audio suddenly switch to the car's speakers? The new "Keep Audio with Headphones" feature solves this problem by ensuring your audio playback isn't interrupted. This gives you control over your listening experience, letting you seamlessly continue listening on your AirPods without having to manually switch the audio back. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new A new setting, **Keep Audio with Headphones**, has been added to the **AirPlay & Continuity** menu. When enabled, this feature overrides your iPhone's default behavior of automatically handing off audio to a newly connected device, like a car stereo or a Bluetooth speaker. Instead, it prioritizes keeping the audio playing through your connected headphones. ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Settings** app on your iPhone. 2. Navigate to **General**. 3. Tap on **AirPlay & Continuity**. 4. Toggle the switch for **Keep Audio with Headphones** to the on position. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/21fb55c3e5fa7f3c382262140a7e1a174827d6cd0fd9d96e99b090e25fd7f626_ab3f7f30.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Uninterrupted Listening:** Prevents audio from automatically switching from your AirPods to your car's Bluetooth system when you get in. - **Maintained Privacy:** Keeps your audio private to your headphones, even when your iPhone connects to a shared speaker in your home. - **Full Control:** You decide when to transfer audio. While this setting prevents automatic switching, you can still manually select your car or another speaker as the audio output via the Control Center. - **Broad Compatibility:** This feature works not only with AirPods but also with other wireless Bluetooth headphones connected to your iPhone. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5fcd31d57fc89d9af7c34a54622c9417bd3e398f6d1628fe961712d3290e7bda_e8ab0e50.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature This feature is ideal for users who frequently move between different audio environments, such as from walking outside to driving. If you share a vehicle, enabling this feature allows you to continue listening to your content without broadcasting it to everyone in the car. Remember, if you do want to switch your audio to the car speakers, you can easily do so by tapping the AirPlay icon in your music app or Control Center. ## Summary The "Keep Audio with Headphones" feature provides a simple yet powerful way to manage your audio experience. It puts you in charge of audio handoffs, preventing unwanted interruptions and ensuring your listening remains personal and seamless. By enabling this one-time setting, you can eliminate the daily frustration of your audio jumping to the wrong device at the wrong time. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Pausing media when falling asleep # Deep dive into Pausing media when falling asleep The new Pausing Media When Falling Asleep feature intelligently detects when you've dozed off and automatically pauses your audio. This solves the common problem of losing your place in a podcast or audiobook, or waking up to a drained battery. Now, you can listen comfortably at night without worrying about setting a timer or missing your content. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This feature introduces a new level of intelligence to your AirPods Pro. Using advanced motion detection, your AirPods can now recognize the subtle changes that indicate you have fallen asleep. When this happens, playback is automatically paused. This capability is managed by a simple new toggle in your AirPods Pro settings called **Pause Media When Falling Asleep**. ## Getting started 1. Connect your AirPods Pro to your iPhone. 2. Open the **Settings** app. 3. Tap on your AirPods Pro's name, which appears near the top of the main settings menu. 4. Scroll down and find the **Pause Media When Falling Asleep** toggle. 5. Switch the toggle on to enable the feature. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9a8680ed7e8a87b8a85a2f385f046424668309e8d7e1ea0dd1247515de65ec84_a04a2140.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automatic Detection:** Your AirPods intelligently sense when you fall asleep and pause media without any manual intervention. - **Save Your Place:** Never lose your spot in a podcast or audiobook again. The audio stops right where you left off. - **Battery Conservation:** By stopping playback automatically, this feature helps preserve the battery life of both your AirPods Pro and your connected device. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature This feature is perfect for anyone who enjoys listening to calming music, podcasts, or audiobooks before bed. Once enabled, you no longer need to rely on sleep timers within your apps. If you wake up and want to continue listening, simply press the stem on your AirPods or the play button in your media app to resume. ## Summary Pausing Media When Falling Asleep is a convenient, set-it-and-forget-it feature that makes your listening experience smarter and more seamless. By automatically pausing audio when it detects you're asleep, it ensures you can enjoy your favorite content without interruption or worry. This small but powerful addition helps you save battery and never lose your place again. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Adaptive Audio and Intelligent Noise Control # Deep dive into Adaptive Audio and Intelligent Noise Control Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Personalized Volume work together to create a seamless listening experience, automatically adjusting noise control and media volume so you can stay aware of your surroundings without constant manual adjustments. These features are designed to make interactions with the world around you feel more natural, even while you're enjoying your audio. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new With this update, your AirPods Pro gain three powerful new capabilities that intelligently manage your sound environment. You can now access these features directly from **Control Center** or fine-tune them in your AirPods settings. - **Adaptive Audio:** A brand new listening mode that dynamically blends Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode. It adjusts the level of noise control based on the changing sound conditions in your environment, reducing distracting noise while allowing important sounds to come through. - **Conversation Awareness:** When you start speaking, this feature automatically lowers your media volume, reduces background noise, and enhances the voices of the people in front of you. This allows you to engage in a conversation without needing to remove your AirPods. - **Personalized Volume:** Using machine learning, this feature learns your listening preferences over time. It then automatically adjusts the media volume based on your environmental conditions to provide a more consistent and comfortable listening experience. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/38f7427bf85715be100942cd6c314ef41bb0fbb98485f4f3ce731f751d30fcb6_08c6bc8d.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Connect your AirPods Pro and open **Control Center** by swiping down from the top-right corner of your screen. 2. Long-press the **volume slider** to open the audio control panel. 3. Tap **Adaptive** to enable the new listening mode. You can switch between **Transparency**, **Adaptive**, and **Noise Cancellation** here. 4. Enable or disable **Conversation Awareness** by tapping the center icon. This can be used with any listening mode. 5. To enable Personalized Volume, go to **Settings** > **[Your AirPods Name]** and toggle on **Personalized Volume**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/279359847dd93939dacf6bee1e8bb3f58bcf6c315cc02b1b5698ba011e183843_4a6402ff.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Move seamlessly between environments.** Walk from a quiet room to a noisy street, and Adaptive Audio will automatically reduce sustained background noise like traffic while still letting you hear important sounds like sirens or people calling your name. - **Start conversations instantly.** With Conversation Awareness, simply start talking to a colleague or barista, and your podcast or music will automatically lower, allowing for a natural conversation without fumbling for controls. - **Get a consistent listening experience.** Personalized Volume learns your preferences and makes subtle adjustments for you. If you enter a loud area, it might slightly increase the volume to match, then lower it again when you return to a quiet space. - **Customize your level of immersion.** If you find Adaptive Audio is letting in too much or too little noise, you can adjust its sensitivity. Navigate to **Settings** > **[Your AirPods Name]** > **Adaptive Audio** and use the slider to fine-tune the balance. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9e2846137e923635034ef65c986eaf3f57f57cacd0785de2e2c0f2df04836e5d_383aa463.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature If you prefer to have full control, you can disable Conversation Awareness and Personalized Volume individually in the AirPods settings while still taking advantage of Adaptive Audio. For environments where you need maximum focus, such as on an airplane, manually switching to full **Noise Cancellation** mode will provide the strongest level of sound isolation. Remember that Personalized Volume improves over time, so the more you use your AirPods, the better it will become at anticipating your needs. ## Summary Adaptive Audio and its related intelligent features transform your AirPods Pro into a smarter listening companion. By automatically managing noise levels and media volume based on your actions and environment, these features provide a more effortless and immersive audio experience. Set your preferences once and let your AirPods handle the rest, keeping you connected to both your audio and the world around you. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into using AirPods as a camera remote # Deep dive into using AirPods as a camera remote The new Camera Remote feature transforms your AirPods Pro into a wireless shutter for your iPhone's camera. You can now take photos or start and stop video recordings from a distance simply by pressing your AirPod stem. This makes it easier than ever to capture group shots, stable videos, or creative selfies without having to touch your phone's screen. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new With iOS 26, you can now configure your AirPods Pro 2 or 3 to act as a remote camera control. In your AirPods Pro settings, you'll find a new **Camera Remote** option that lets you assign the shutter action to either a single press or a press-and-hold gesture on the AirPod stem. This feature is integrated directly into the system, requiring no additional apps. ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Settings** app and tap on your AirPods Pro device name near the top. 2. Scroll down to the **Camera Control** section and tap **Camera Remote**. 3. Choose your desired trigger: **Press Once** or **Press and Hold**. Selecting one of these options activates the feature. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bc41b234418ed0e5f20d552b3e1fd92029435e97515af730e5ec147e05e2040b_d2e0f5d8.jpg) 4. Open the native **Camera** app on your iPhone. 5. Press the stem on your AirPod to take a photo or start/stop a video recording. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/212cc5086db3832ed2f56aa9ded664718f54f32ccfd479fccc9dfc6908ec9995_2cd528c6.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Remote Photo Capture:** Take photos from a distance, perfect for group photos or selfies where you need to set your phone down. - **Video Recording Control:** Start and stop video recordings without touching your phone, ensuring your shots are stable and perfectly timed. - **Flexible Trigger Options:** Customize whether a single press or a longer press-and-hold action triggers the camera. - **Single AirPod Use:** The feature works even if you only have one AirPod in, giving you more flexibility. - **Audio and Visual Feedback:** Receive a subtle audio chime in your AirPod and see a countdown timer on your iPhone's screen when taking a photo, so you know the command was received. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For group photos, use the **Press Once** setting with the built-in countdown timer to give everyone a moment to pose. If you're using your iPhone on a tripod for vlogging, the ability to start and stop video recording with a simple stem press can make your workflow much smoother. Remember, this feature works in both Photo and Video modes within the Camera app. ## Summary The Camera Remote feature is a simple yet powerful addition that adds significant utility to your AirPods Pro. By turning your earbuds into a discreet remote shutter, you can capture better photos and videos with greater convenience and control. This eliminates the need for separate remotes or relying on the camera's self-timer for every shot. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Live Listen # Deep dive into Live Listen Live Listen is a powerful accessibility feature that turns your iPhone into a remote microphone for your AirPods Pro. It captures sound using your iPhone and streams it directly to your ears, helping you hear conversations more clearly in noisy environments or listen to someone from across a room. This feature is designed to help you stay connected to your surroundings without missing important audio cues. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new While Live Listen has been available as an accessibility tool, it is now easier than ever to access directly from your **Control Center**. Once enabled, you can activate it with a single tap, transforming your iPhone into a personal listening device. This update makes a powerful hearing enhancement tool readily available for everyday situations, not just for users with hearing impairments. ## Getting started 1. First, add the Live Listen control to your Control Center. Go to **Settings** > **Control Center** and tap the plus icon next to **Hearing**. 2. Open **Control Center** by swiping down from the top-right corner of your screen. 3. Tap the ear icon to open the **Hearing** controls. 4. Tap **Live Listen** to turn it on. The microphone on your iPhone will now stream audio directly to your connected AirPods Pro. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4af8e589573565e952592cff4e99d97325cd1de7e720b88ed19a0b3441576ae7_89943a88.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Hear Conversations in Loud Environments:** Place your iPhone on a table in a noisy restaurant to hear your friends more clearly. The microphone will pick up their voices and send the audio directly to you, cutting through the background noise. - **Listen from a Distance:** If you need to step away but want to keep listening to a lecture, presentation, or even the TV, you can leave your iPhone near the sound source and continue listening from another room. - **Personal Audio Monitoring:** Use your iPhone as a temporary monitor. Place it in a room where you need to listen for something, and you'll hear everything through your AirPods. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best audio quality, place your iPhone as close as possible to the person or sound source you want to hear. Remember to turn off Live Listen from the **Control Center** when you're finished to conserve battery life on both your iPhone and AirPods Pro. While this feature is incredibly useful, please be mindful of others' privacy when using it to listen from a distance. ## Summary Live Listen transforms your AirPods Pro and iPhone into a versatile personal sound amplification system. By making it easily accessible through the Control Center, this powerful feature is no longer just for specific accessibility needs but can be used by anyone to enhance their hearing in challenging situations. It’s a perfect example of how your Apple devices can work together to provide practical, real-world benefits. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into live translation # Deep dive into live translation Live Translation for AirPods Pro transforms your earbuds into a personal interpreter, helping you communicate naturally with someone who speaks another language. This feature translates conversations in real-time, sending the translated audio directly to your AirPods. It’s designed to break down language barriers and make cross-cultural communication more seamless and intuitive. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new With the latest update, the Live Translation feature is now more powerful than ever. We've expanded the number of supported languages, adding Japanese, Portuguese (Brazil), Chinese (Mandarin), and Korean to the list. You can manage and download these languages directly from your AirPods Pro settings, ensuring you're ready to communicate wherever you go. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/519b135ac0c2fbd0b9870d88ba93fee87463ff1fdd6d7125fbbb8cafc1f4ca3c_ca514d37.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. First, ensure you have the necessary languages downloaded. Navigate to **Settings** > **Your AirPods Pro** > **Translation (Beta)** and select **Languages** to download your desired options. 2. To start a translation session on the fly, press and hold both AirPods stems simultaneously. You will hear a chime indicating that Live Translation is active. 3. Alternatively, you can initiate a session from the built-in **Translate** app. Open the app, select the **Live** tab at the bottom right, choose the languages for the conversation, and tap **Start Translation**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9652d90239fec5fabe3620466f1593b17e749b253869611d2cf830c33a23fe36_fd0b5603.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Real-Time Audio Translation:** Hear spoken language translated directly into your ears, allowing for a more natural conversation flow without needing to look at your screen. - **On-the-Go Activation:** Quickly start a translation session by pressing and holding the stems on both AirPods, perfect for spontaneous interactions. - **On-Screen Visuals:** If the other person isn't wearing AirPods, your iPhone screen will display the conversation translated in real-time, allowing them to read along. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, download your required languages over Wi-Fi before you travel. When starting a conversation, you can show the other person your iPhone screen so they can see the translation in text form. This helps create a smooth, two-way communication experience, even if they don't have AirPods. ## Summary Live Translation leverages the power of your iPhone and AirPods to act as your personal interpreter. With expanded language support and intuitive controls, it's easier than ever to connect with people from different backgrounds. Whether you're traveling abroad or meeting someone new in your city, this feature helps you communicate with confidence. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Using Head Gestures for Calls # Deep dive into Using Head Gestures for Calls The new Head Gestures feature provides a completely hands-free way to interact with incoming calls and notifications. Instead of tapping your AirPods or reaching for your iPhone, you can now simply nod your head to accept a call or shake your head to decline it. This feature enhances convenience, allowing you to stay engaged in your current activity without interruption. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new With the latest update, you can enable hands-free interaction for your AirPods Pro. A new **Head Gestures** menu is now available in your AirPods settings, allowing you to accept or decline calls and interact with announced notifications using simple head movements. Nodding up and down accepts a call, while shaking your head from side to side declines it. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/33c42ad376eacbbb7c541bde757f1869ae23559dcb293ec675185f921064fbe7_a215d7a3.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Connect your AirPods Pro and navigate to **Settings** > **[Your AirPods Name]**. 2. Scroll down and tap on the **Head Gestures** option. 3. Toggle the **Head Gestures** switch to the on position. 4. When you receive a call, Siri will announce it. Simply nod your head up and down to accept it. 5. To decline a call, shake your head from side to side. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4abc2f6f9417a605a276e345b25c9149c179286040cf6eea95546b9434ce7665_b4101495.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Answer Calls Hands-Free:** Nod your head to accept an incoming call without touching any device. - **Decline Calls Discreetly:** Shake your head to decline a call when you're unable to talk. - **Interact with Notifications:** Use gestures to interact with or dismiss notifications that Siri announces in your ears. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For Head Gestures to function, you must have **Announce Notifications** enabled for Siri. This allows Siri to audibly announce the incoming call or message, which activates the gesture-detection feature. You can enable this by going to **Settings** > **Apple Intelligence & Siri** > **Announce Notifications** and toggling the main switch on. ## Summary Head Gestures for Calls transforms how you interact with your iPhone while wearing AirPods Pro, offering a new level of hands-free convenience. By leveraging simple, intuitive head movements, you can manage calls and notifications without pausing your activity. This feature is perfect for moments when your hands are full, whether you're cooking, working out, or carrying groceries. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Automating noise control with shortcuts # Deep dive into Automating noise control with shortcuts You can now automatically change your AirPods Pro listening modes like Noise Cancellation or Transparency using the Shortcuts app. This new capability lets you create powerful automations that adapt your audio experience to your environment, saving you from manually adjusting settings as you move through your day. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a new **Set Noise Control Mode** action in the Shortcuts app. This action allows you to programmatically switch between Noise Cancellation, Transparency, Adaptive, and Off for your connected AirPods Pro. You can use this action within any shortcut or, more powerfully, as part of a Personal Automation that runs based on triggers like time of day, location, or connecting to a specific Wi-Fi network. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5ff3e6d3c4c792fdca6b683b805f41df0107fe21607ede9ff62a0d05ec5193fa_32645081.jpg) ## How to use this feature To get started, you can create a Personal Automation that changes the noise control mode when you connect to your home Wi-Fi: 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app and tap the **Automation** tab at the bottom. 2. Tap the **+** button and select **Create Personal Automation**. 3. Choose a trigger, such as **Wi-Fi**, and select your home network. 4. Set the automation to **Run Immediately** to avoid confirmation prompts. 5. Tap **Next** and add the **Set Noise Control mode** action. 6. Configure the action to set your AirPods Pro to **Transparency** mode. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9b7f7a6114c3cc3f06075b67ad6ea8058a07b0fffaf11cd7c41f3242883b60b3_b73c3fd0.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Context-Aware Audio:** Automatically switch to Transparency mode when you arrive home or turn on Noise Cancellation when you get to the office. - **Focus Modes Integration:** Link your noise control settings to Focus modes, such as enabling Noise Cancellation when your 'Work' Focus is active. - **Time-Based Changes:** Set your AirPods to a specific mode at certain times of the day, like switching to Transparency during your lunch break. - **One-Tap Shortcuts:** Create a shortcut on your Home Screen to instantly switch to a preferred listening mode without navigating menus. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the most seamless experience, always choose the **Run Immediately** option when creating your automation. This ensures the noise control mode changes in the background without requiring you to tap a notification. You can also combine this action with others, such as playing a specific playlist and setting the volume when you arrive at the gym. ## Summary Automating noise control with Shortcuts adds a new layer of intelligence to your AirPods Pro. By setting up triggers that match your daily routines, you can make your listening experience more convenient and context-aware. This feature allows your audio to adapt to you, rather than requiring you to adapt to your surroundings. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## Visual Intelligence & Screenshot Shortcuts come together in iOS26 ### Overview: Visual Intelligence & screenshot shortcuts # Overview: Visual Intelligence & screenshot shortcuts

iOS 26 is changing how we interact with what's on our screens. It's not just about identifying a flower in a garden anymore. We're seeing a shift where screenshots become actionable bridges to other apps, deeper searches, and smarter workflows. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** I've noticed something interesting in the latest release. When you take a screenshot, it's starting to trigger Visual Intelligence capabilities—offering to summarize text, save dates, or even search directly inside apps like Lowes and Pinterest. It's a huge step forward for context awareness. But we don't have to wait for every app to catch up. In this post, I'll walk you through the new native features, the third-party apps that are already nailing it, and six custom Apple Shortcuts I built to bring this "visual intelligence" power to any iPhone right now. ## Native Visual Intelligence updates First, let's look at what's actually new in the OS. Visual Intelligence has been around for a bit, but it's getting smarter. If you take a screenshot of a flyer with a date, you can add it to your calendar instantly. If it's a menu in another language, you can translate it on the spot. The real game-changer in iOS26 is the search integration. When you tap the **Search** icon on a screenshot, you don't just get Google results. You now see specific third-party apps appearing at the top of the list. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a3c60f69a463aabe44056b5d4e301e48275307e605a829e62e0af924f48290c6_18d0092b.jpg) ### How it works with apps 1. Take a screenshot of a product (like a grill or a lamp) 2. Tap the **Search** icon in the screenshot interface 3. Look at the top bar. You'll see options for **Google**, but also apps like **Lowes**, **Pinterest**, or **Etsy** 4. Tap one of those apps. It performs a visual search directly within that app's database This is powerful. If you tap the Lowes option on a picture of a grill, it doesn't just show you pictures—it deep links you to the product in the Lowes app so you can buy it. Some apps, like Bezel, are even using this extension to frame your screenshots instantly. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/2be3b4a01f8f7de55ef8a1256b253a3aace9968dbc28dba3c68e81023e48450a_771d8cfc.jpg) ## Setting up the custom shortcuts I think every app should work this way, but they don't yet. So, I built a set of six Shortcuts that "hack" the screenshot feature to give you visual intelligence super-powers. Before we dive into them, here's the best way to set them up for quick access. ### Add them to Control Center 1. Download the shortcuts (links at the bottom of the post) 2. Open your Control Center and long-press to enter edit mode 3. Tap **Add Control** and search for "Shortcuts" 4. Select the shortcut you want to trigger. I recommend setting these up for quick access Pro tip: I've built these shortcuts to automatically hide the Control Center before they take the screenshot. You don't need to worry about the menu blocking your view. ## Identify movies & shows Social media is full of movie clips with zero context. No title, no caption. It's frustrating. This shortcut uses Apple Intelligence and ChatGPT to solve that mystery instantly. ### How to use it 1. When you see a clip on TikTok or Instagram, pull down **Control Center** 2. Tap the **What Movie or Show is This?** shortcut 3. Wait a second. The shortcut takes a screenshot and sends it to ChatGPT 4. You'll get a notification with the title and how confident the AI is in the match ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9927792533fb7c04765d04a8527f2e657d342b542ddd9288255c94ffff155230_9c37feb5.jpg) ## Turn text messages into groceries We've all gotten that text: "Can you pick up eggs, milk, and bread?" Instead of switching apps and typing it out manually, let the shortcut do it. Run the **Text to Grocery List** shortcut while looking at the conversation. It scans the screen, extracts the food items, and adds them directly to your Groceries list in Reminders. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/07da152cd6b837fbad80b74b697256e9d3abef0faf566c2265357b4993efc7e4_4e21f6c8.jpg) ## Quick frame screenshots Sharing raw screenshots can look messy. Sometimes you want it to look professional, like it's displayed on a device. Apps like Bezel and ShareShot are great, but you can also do this fast with a shortcut. ### How it works 1. Trigger the **Quick Frame** shortcut from Control Center 2. It automatically captures the screen 3. The image gets wrapped in a device frame automatically 4. The share sheet pops up immediately so you can send it off ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/481edadfaab9de2aa0fa3a91dadc05b6582545530528284c66f29f11c8583e23_f3fe720f.jpg) Pro tip: This is faster than taking a manual screenshot and cropping it. It's perfect for sharing bugs or design ideas with your team. ## Find local spots from social posts You see a cool coffee shop or park on a friend's story, but they didn't tag the location. This shortcut solves that FOMO. Run **Find Local Food Spots**. It analyzes the image for landmarks or text, figures out where it is (searching near your current location), and opens it directly in Apple Maps. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9bd59ea47aab414b7f59cbac4d141672520cf2f17d044b10ea16352d69636d36_4480f176.jpg) ## A few more utilities I also included a couple more helpers in the pack: - **Screenshot to Reminder:** Takes a screenshot, parses any dates or times visible, and creates a reminder with a link back to the content - **Remember This:** Summarizes what's on screen and saves it to a Notes folder with a link back. Great for gift ideas ## Start playing Visual Intelligence is just getting started, but you don't have to wait for Apple to finish it. These shortcuts bridge the gap right now. Give them a try. Set up the "What Movie is This?" shortcut first—it's the one you'll probably use the most. And if you want to dive deeper into what Shortcuts can do, check out the community over at shortcut.bot. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Visual Intelligence for third-party apps # Deep dive into Visual Intelligence for third-party apps Visual Intelligence transforms screenshots from static images into interactive starting points for action. With the latest update, this power is now extended to your favorite third-party apps, allowing you to perform context-aware searches without ever leaving the screenshot editor. This creates a seamless bridge between seeing something on your screen and finding it in the app where it matters most. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new When you take a screenshot and tap the **Search** icon, you will now see a new horizontal bar featuring icons of supported third-party apps like Lowe's, Pinterest, and Etsy. Instead of only getting web search results, you can now perform a reverse image search directly within these integrated apps. Tapping an app's icon provides results from that app's own catalog or content library, and selecting a result takes you directly to the relevant page in the app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6c21dc14a61c6c5c375e7e58e36f273481f35f880868c76ba5b68deccec8a97a_fdcc2333.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Take a screenshot of an item, scene, or app screen. 2. Tap the screenshot thumbnail that appears in the bottom-left corner to open the editor. 3. Tap the **Search** icon at the bottom of the screen. 4. In the search results view, tap the icon of a third-party app (e.g., Lowe's, Etsy, Pinterest) from the top bar. 5. Browse the results from that app. Tapping on a result will open it directly in the app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9c49c6b28461efa63cd7752fdb82ca0d1a232786b4b3eadbf22e79a606565e14_f94fbfc0.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Direct Product Discovery:** See a product on social media or a website? Take a screenshot and tap the Lowe's or Etsy icon to find that exact item or similar ones available for purchase. - **Find Visual Inspiration:** Capture a beautiful landscape, a piece of art, or a design you like. Use the Pinterest integration to instantly discover similar pins and create new idea boards. - **Creative In-App Actions:** The feature isn't limited to search. Apps can use this space to offer quick actions. For example, the Bezel app displays different device frame options for your screenshot right in the results view. - **Targeted Search:** Before tapping an app icon, you can circle a specific object within your screenshot to focus the search on just that item, ensuring more accurate results. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the most accurate results, make sure the item you want to search for is clearly visible in the screenshot. If your screenshot contains multiple items, use the circle-to-search gesture to isolate the object of interest before selecting a third-party app. Keep an eye out for more of your favorite apps to appear in the search bar as they adopt this new capability. ## Summary The integration of third-party apps into Visual Intelligence makes screenshots more powerful and actionable than ever. It streamlines the process of discovering products, finding inspiration, and performing quick tasks by connecting what you see on your screen directly to the apps you use every day. This update reduces friction and makes your device a more intuitive and helpful tool. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into identifying movies & TV shows from screenshots # Deep dive into identifying movies & TV shows from screenshots Have you ever seen a clip of a movie on social media and couldn't figure out what it was from? This new shortcut acts like a 'Shazam for video,' allowing you to instantly identify a movie or TV show by simply taking a screenshot. It leverages on-device intelligence to analyze the image and provide you with potential titles, saving you from the frustration of manual searching. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This feature is a powerful new shortcut called **What Movie or Show is This?** that you can add to your **Control Center** for quick access. When activated, it captures your screen or uses an existing photo and sends it to an AI model for visual analysis. The shortcut then presents a list of likely titles directly on your screen, complete with confidence percentages to help you determine the most probable match. ## How to use this feature 1. While viewing a video or image of an unknown movie or show, swipe down to open the **Control Center**. 2. Tap the **What Movie or Show is This?** shortcut button. 3. From the menu that appears, select **Take a Screenshot** to capture your current screen or **Choose from Photos** to use a saved image. 4. The shortcut will process the image using Apple Intelligence. 5. A list of suggested titles with confidence scores will appear on your screen. Tap **Done** when finished. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3c13cc87f61eeafc8f2a5e951eb093df0e2f2243c9caddc89ed2076aad4dfffa_539b16f6.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Identification:** Quickly identify movies and TV shows from any app, including social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. - **Flexible Input:** Works with both real-time screenshots and existing images saved in your photo library. - **Confidence Scoring:** Provides multiple suggestions with percentages, helping you pinpoint the correct title even if the image is ambiguous. - **Seamless Integration:** Access the feature from your **Control Center** for a fast and intuitive workflow that doesn't interrupt what you're doing. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the most accurate results, use a screenshot that clearly shows a character's face or a distinctive scene. While the shortcut can be triggered in multiple ways (like Back Tap or the Action Button), running it from the **Control Center** is ideal as it automatically hides the interface before taking the screenshot, ensuring a clean image for analysis. ## Summary The **What Movie or Show is This?** shortcut transforms your device into a powerful media identification tool. By integrating screenshot functionality with advanced AI, it provides a fast and effortless way to discover the titles of movies and shows you encounter online. Add it to your **Control Center** to turn curiosity into answers with just a single tap. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating a grocery list from a text message screenshot # Deep dive into creating a grocery list from a text message screenshot Tired of manually re-typing grocery lists sent via text message? Our new "Text to Grocery List" shortcut leverages Apple Intelligence to instantly convert a screenshot of a list into an organized grocery list in your Reminders app. This feature eliminates tedious data entry, saving you time and ensuring you never miss an item at the store. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a powerful new shortcut, **Text to Grocery List**, which can be added to your **Control Center** for quick access. When activated, the shortcut automatically captures a screenshot of your current screen, uses Apple Intelligence to identify list items, and adds them to the default "Groceries" list within the Reminders app. The feature even attempts to categorize the items for you, making your shopping trip more efficient. ## How to use this feature 1. Open the text message or any other app displaying the list of items you want to capture. 2. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open the **Control Center**. 3. Tap the **Text to Grocery List** shortcut icon. 4. The shortcut will automatically take a screenshot, process the text, and add the items to your "Groceries" list in the Reminders app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/76200641467c86cb8faf869bad348f8397a240ad24c9154fccc6a61ac890949c_d0a124c5.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **One-Tap List Creation:** Convert any on-screen text into a grocery list with a single tap from the Control Center. - **Intelligent Item Parsing:** Apple Intelligence analyzes the screenshot to accurately identify and extract individual grocery items. - **Automatic Categorization:** Items are automatically sorted into categories like "Dairy, Eggs & Cheese," "Meat," and "Beverages" within your Reminders list. - **Seamless Integration:** Works directly with the native Reminders app, so your lists are available across all your Apple devices. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, ensure the list in the text message is formatted with each item on a new line. While designed for text messages, this shortcut can capture a list from any app, including notes, websites, or emails. You can customize which Reminders list the items are added to by editing the shortcut in the Shortcuts app. ## Summary The Text to Grocery List shortcut transforms a common and often manual task into a quick, automated process. By leveraging the power of screenshots and on-device intelligence, you can create organized, categorized shopping lists in seconds. This small but mighty tool is a perfect example of how Apple Intelligence can simplify your daily routines. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Creating Reminders from Screenshot Text # Deep dive into Creating Reminders from Screenshot Text Quickly capture tasks from any screen by turning text into an actionable reminder. This feature uses a powerful shortcut to parse text directly from a screenshot, creating a reminder with a time-sensitive alert and attaching the original image for context. It’s the fastest way to ensure important to-dos from text messages, emails, or websites are never forgotten. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces the **Screenshot to Reminder** shortcut, a new way to interact with on-screen content. When you run this shortcut, it automatically takes a screenshot of your current screen, uses Apple Intelligence to extract relevant text, and creates a new entry in your Reminders app. The reminder includes the extracted text as the title, a default alert set for one hour later, and attaches the screenshot so you can always refer back to the original source. ## How to use this feature 1. Navigate to the screen containing the text you want to save as a reminder, such as a text message with a task. 2. Swipe down to open **Control Center**. 3. Tap the **Screenshot to Reminder** shortcut. 4. The shortcut will automatically take a screenshot and process the text. 5. A new reminder is instantly created in your Reminders app with the parsed text and an attached image of the screenshot. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ece9f2a7eaa0f0ff74a7d74556199fe348c5abd8474f74a84792784ea12a21e9_43908895.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Effortless Task Capture:** Convert text from any app into a reminder without manually typing or switching apps. - **Contextual Reminders:** Each reminder includes the original screenshot, providing full context without needing to find the source conversation or webpage. - **Smart Text Parsing:** Intelligently identifies and extracts actionable text from the screenshot to create a relevant title for your reminder. - **Automatic Alerts:** By default, an alert is set for one hour in the future, prompting you to follow up on the task in a timely manner. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, use this feature on screens with clear, concise text. While the shortcut is smart, complex layouts might result in a more generic reminder title. You can always tap on the created reminder to edit the title, alert time, or add more notes. ## Summary The Screenshot to Reminder shortcut bridges the gap between passive information and active tasks. It offers a seamless workflow for capturing important to-dos from any context on your device, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks. This tool is perfect for quickly saving tasks from conversations, articles, and more, complete with full visual context. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into saving web content to notes with 'remember this' # Deep dive into saving web content to notes with 'remember this' The new 'Remember This' shortcut transforms how you save and organize information you find online. Instead of taking a simple screenshot that can get lost in your photo library, this powerful tool captures the content, uses AI to create a summary, and saves it as an organized note for easy retrieval later. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces the 'Remember This' shortcut, a one-tap solution for intelligently capturing web content. Accessible directly from your **Control Center**, this shortcut automates the process of taking a screenshot, summarizing its content using Apple Intelligence, extracting any relevant links, and saving everything into a new entry in your Notes app. It's designed to turn fleeting online discoveries into actionable, organized information. ## How to use this feature 1. When you're on a webpage or social media post you want to save, open the **Control Center** by swiping down from the top-right corner of your screen. 2. Tap the **Remember This** shortcut. 3. A prompt will appear asking if you want to add any context. You can type in a quick thought, like "Gift idea," and tap **Done**. 4. The shortcut will automatically take a screenshot, use Apple Intelligence to generate a summary, and ask you to choose a folder in your Notes app (e.g., "Things to Remember"). 5. A new note is created containing the AI summary, the URL (if available), your added context, and the original screenshot image for reference. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1d053bb60940f589d6c9594d26357706935201e4c4444696afaa4b13e96a1580_1623c526.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **AI-Powered Summaries:** Automatically generates a concise summary of the content in the screenshot, so you can quickly recall what it's about. - **Contextual Saving:** Allows you to add your own notes or tags (e.g., "gift idea," "read later") to the saved content. - **Automatic Link Extraction:** If the screenshot is from a webpage, the shortcut intelligently finds and includes the URL in the note. - **Organized Storage:** Saves everything—summary, link, context, and the screenshot image—into a designated folder in the Notes app, keeping your saved items tidy and separate from your camera roll. - **One-Tap Activation:** Runs directly from the Control Center for quick and seamless captures without navigating away from what you're doing. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/37eaa87c8750f5ef88c63325ead7a0719146c37dd8e1e11376b6a26418c4cd47_4d30c33a.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, ensure the main content you want to summarize is clearly visible on the screen before activating the shortcut. You can edit the shortcut to pre-select a default folder in Notes to make the process even faster. This is great for creating a quick personal wishlist, saving articles for later reading, or capturing interesting product ideas you find on social media. ## Summary The 'Remember This' shortcut is more than just a screenshot tool; it’s an intelligent content-capturing system. By leveraging AI to summarize and organize information from any screen, it provides a fast and efficient way to save valuable content directly into your Notes app, complete with context and a direct link back to the source. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Quickly framing screenshots for sharing # Deep dive into Quickly framing screenshots for sharing Creating professional-looking screenshots often requires multiple manual steps: take the screenshot, open an editing app, import the image, apply a frame, and then finally share it. This release introduces a powerful new shortcut that automates this entire workflow, turning a multi-step process into a single tap. Now, you can capture, frame, and share beautiful screenshots in seconds, directly from your device's Control Center. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new We've introduced a new, customizable shortcut called **Frame Screenshot and Share** that integrates with the popular ShareShot app. By adding this shortcut to your **Control Center**, you gain a system-wide button to instantly capture what's on your screen. The shortcut automatically applies a pre-configured device frame and background, then immediately presents the **Share Sheet** so you can send your polished image on its way. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b83ec1e13501745f43a980e1b7104b1cf515e4e6ac50de37878b4a9d06a4882e_6f52794f.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. First, ensure you have the ShareShot app installed on your device. 2. Download the **Frame Screenshot and Share** shortcut and add it to your **Control Center** via the Settings app. 3. When you want to capture your screen, swipe down to open **Control Center**. 4. Tap the shortcut icon. The **Control Center** will automatically close, and a screenshot will be taken. 5. The shortcut will then frame the image and immediately open the **Share Sheet**, allowing you to save or send the final image. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/804503c78a6f0529c95a32e557a6b7fec49292320310c8f40e727750a68f87c8_36f0c6fc.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **One-Tap Automation:** Execute the entire capture, frame, and share workflow with a single tap from anywhere in the OS. - **Preset Customization:** Edit the shortcut to set your preferred default background, padding, and lighting effects, ensuring a consistent look for all your framed screenshots. - **Streamlined Sharing:** The framed image is sent directly to the Share Sheet, eliminating the need to manually open apps or find the file. - **No Interruptions:** The shortcut automatically hides the Control Center before capturing, ensuring your screenshots are clean and free of UI overlays. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To set your default framing style, open the Shortcuts app and edit the **Frame Screenshot and Share** shortcut. Tap the 'Frame screenshot' action to expand its options, where you can choose a default background, adjust padding, and change the light position. For an even faster workflow, you can remove the 'Show Frame screenshots in Quick Look' action from the shortcut to bypass the preview and go straight to sharing. ## Summary The **Frame Screenshot and Share** shortcut transforms how you create and use screenshots. By automating the framing process, it saves valuable time and makes it effortless to produce professional-looking visuals for tutorials, social media, or team communication. This feature puts a powerful content creation tool right in your Control Center, ready to use with a single tap. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into finding local places from social media screenshots # Deep dive into finding local places from social media screenshots Have you ever seen a photo of a cool restaurant or coffee shop on social media but had no idea where it was? A new productivity shortcut leverages Visual Intelligence to solve this exact problem. By analyzing a screenshot or a photo, your device can now identify the location and show you exactly where it is on a map. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a powerful new shortcut called **Find Local Food Spots**. This tool uses Apple Intelligence to analyze the visual content of a screenshot or an image from your photo library. It identifies key details like signs, logos, or architectural features to determine the name and location of a business, then automatically searches for it near your current location and opens the result in Apple Maps. ## How to use this feature 1. When you see an interesting place online, open your **Control Center**. 2. Tap the **Find Local Food Spots** shortcut. 3. A menu will appear. Choose **Take a Screenshot** to capture your current screen, or select **Choose from Photos** to use an image you've already saved. 4. The shortcut will process the image to identify the location. 5. Apple Maps will automatically open, displaying the identified location and providing options for directions, hours, and more. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e5135968eacd7b0a99501bac7e396c657524e3450a03b27c23256583cdba029e_6604fae5.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Identify Locations from Images:** Discover the name and location of a business from just a photo, even if it's not tagged in the social media post. - **Instant Navigation:** Go directly from seeing a place online to getting directions in Apple Maps with a single shortcut. - **Context-Aware Search:** The shortcut intelligently searches for the identified business near your current location, making it perfect for finding local spots. - **Flexible Input:** Works with both live screenshots of what's currently on your screen and existing images saved to your photo library. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, make sure the screenshot or photo clearly shows the name of the business or a unique, recognizable part of the building. This feature is especially useful when you're exploring a new area; if you see a local recommendation online, you can quickly find out how to get there. ## Summary The **Find Local Food Spots** shortcut transforms visual inspiration into real-world action. It bridges the gap between discovering new places on social media and actually being able to visit them. This saves you the time and effort of manually searching for names and addresses, making spontaneous exploration easier than ever. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## 18 Advanced Shortcuts with Apple Intelligence ### Overview: 18 new Apple Intelligence shortcuts # Overview: 18 new Apple Intelligence shortcuts

Shortcuts have always been powerful, but let's be honest—they haven't exactly been "smart." They followed strict rules. If A happens, do B. But with the release of Apple Intelligence and the new ChatGPT integrations in iOS 18.2, that changes completely. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** I've spent the last few weeks rebuilding my automation library to take advantage of these new AI tools. The result is a collection of 18 new and updated shortcuts that don't just move data around—they understand context, summarize content, and actually generate things for you. From automatic packing lists to smarter birthday texts, these are designed to handle the heavy lifting. Let's walk through the standout shortcuts in this collection, how to set them up, and how they actually work on your device. ## Before you dive in Most of these shortcuts rely on the new Apple Intelligence features found in iOS 18.1 and the ChatGPT integration in 18.2. You'll need a compatible iPhone (15 Pro or later) or iPad with an M-series chip to run the AI-heavy ones. 1. Ensure you are running the latest iOS beta or public release that supports Apple Intelligence 2. Download the **Actions** app from the App Store. It adds essential actions (like finding playlists) that Apple doesn't include by default 3. Install the official **ChatGPT** app and ensure you're signed in to use the advanced text parsing features 4. Download the shortcuts you want from the links provided in the video description or my community page Pro tip: For the "Scan Documents" shortcuts, you'll also want to grab **Toolbox Pro**. It handles the scanning interface better than the native Shortcuts action does right now. ## The "Remember This" shortcut This is a step up from your standard "Save for Later" bookmark. Sometimes you see something on a screen—a shirt, a social post, a weird error message—and the link isn't enough. You need the visual context. This shortcut takes a screenshot, uses AI to analyze what's on the screen, and saves it all to a structured Apple Note. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0538f27543b494ac9982b0ed3d3b50f46f2849d900cc083b6fd75863e585bcfe_7ce48be8.jpg) ### How it works 1. Add **Remember This** to your Control Center for quick access 2. When you see something interesting, swipe down and tap the shortcut 3. The shortcut automatically takes a screenshot and grabs any text from the screen 4. Apple Intelligence analyzes the image to create a title and summary 5. It saves everything to a specific notes folder (I use "Things to Remember") with the screenshot and source link attached When it's done, you have a searchable note with the image, the context of why you saved it, and a direct link back to the source. ## Smarter birthday texts Nobody likes sending the same generic "Happy Birthday!" text year after year. I built two versions of this. The simple one just finds contacts with birthdays today. The advanced one is where the magic happens. The AI version actually checks a log of what you sent that person last year to ensure you never repeat yourself. It generates a fresh, unique message every time. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1748b8c9be6ad5fa7f71ef0b8601a6a296e78ca17968d4bf456595b5d53a6b00_27fdd872.jpg) ### Setting up the log This one requires a tiny bit of prep work to function correctly: 1. Create a new note in Apple Notes titled exactly **Birthday Texts** 2. Run the shortcut. It scans your contacts for birthdays matching today's date 3. Select the person you want to text 4. The AI reads your **Birthday Texts** note to see what you said previously 5. It drafts a new message, sends it, and logs the new message back to that note for next year ## Packing List AI This was a request from the community. Instead of a static packing list, this shortcut uses Apple Intelligence to generate a custom list based on your specific trip. It asks you where you're going, how long you'll be there, what activities you're doing (like scuba diving), and what luggage you're bringing. Then, it creates a tailored Reminders list for you. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d1d723b1534386a18f21f280fc75c9101bf97aebe32fc769dab2e794f7828336_8d862066.jpg) ### Give it a spin 1. Run **Packing List AI** 2. Answer the prompts: Destination (e.g., Hawaii), Duration (e.g., 7 days), and Activities 3. Choose your luggage type (Suitcase, Backpack, or Both) 4. The shortcut generates items, categorizes them, adds checkboxes, and opens the new list in Reminders ## Transcribe & summarize podcasts This is probably the most streamlined version of a podcast transcriber I've built. Apple improved the transcribe action on iPhone and iPad, so this is much more reliable now. It pulls the latest episode from an RSS feed, transcribes the audio, and uses ChatGPT to generate a summary, key points, and a full text dump into Apple Notes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/deedd368cc0eb2b003be1d34af6439bceceb6209734a903e16a1546d55d29875_64fd97e0.jpg) ### How to customize it 1. Open the shortcut editor and locate the **Menu** list 2. Change the names to your favorite podcasts 3. Scroll down to the text blocks matching each menu item 4. Paste the **direct RSS feed URL** for each show into the text field 5. Run it to get a beautifully formatted summary note of the latest episode Pro tip: If you run into memory limits on older iPhones, try running this one on an iPad or Mac. It works nearly 100% of the time on macOS. ## Amazon Price Checker With the holiday season coming up, I wanted a quick way to check price history without loading a bunch of tabs. This shortcut scrapes CamelCamelCamel for multiple products at once and gives you a clean list of current prices. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/438539a4ee212c1379d26a3f5cf8b4d7de119834de125808a396b551c708f71d_f18eb448.jpg) ### Using it 1. Grab the CamelCamelCamel product URL for items you want to watch 2. Paste them into the text block at the top of the shortcut 3. When you run it, you'll see a menu with the product names and current prices 4. Tap any item to jump straight to the Amazon page ## A few more highlights There are 18 shortcuts total in this drop. Here are a few other quick wins worth checking out: - **Mark Parked Car:** Logs your location instantly, or retrieves it with walking directions. Can even run automatically when CarPlay disconnects - **Text Convo Reminders:** Takes a screenshot of a text, grabs the contact info, and sets a reminder to reply later with a link back to the thread - **Play Latest Playlist:** Uses the Actions app to find your most recently created playlist and start shuffling it immediately - **Scan Invoices:** Scans a document or PDF, parses the vendor/cost/date, and logs it to a Numbers spreadsheet - **Dictate Journal:** Speak your thoughts, and let AI format them into bullet points with a nice title before saving to the Journal app - **Air Quality Warning:** Checks the AQI forecast for your area and notifies you if it's going to be unhealthy today ## Start playing These shortcuts are all available to download now. Whether you're trying to organize your next trip, keep track of your spending, or just remember to text your friends on their birthday, there's something here for everyone. Grab the ones you need, open them up to see how they're built, and don't be afraid to tweak them to fit your own workflow. That's the best part about Shortcuts—they're just the starting point. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into saving screenshots with AI-generated context ('Remember This') # Deep dive into saving screenshots with AI-generated context ('Remember This') The new 'Remember This' shortcut offers a powerful way to capture on-screen information that isn't easily saved, like an interesting product on a website or a key part of a text conversation. Instead of just taking a screenshot that gets lost in your photo library, this feature uses AI to automatically analyze the content, generate a title and summary, and save it all into a searchable Apple Note for later. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This feature is a pre-built shortcut designed for quick activation from your iPhone's **Control Center**. When triggered, it performs a sequence of actions without any user input: it takes a screenshot of your current screen, sends the image to an AI model to extract context, generates a title and summary, pulls any visible URLs, and compiles everything into a new, organized note in your Apple Notes app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0538f27543b494ac9982b0ed3d3b50f46f2849d900cc083b6fd75863e585bcfe_7ce48be8.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. First, add the 'Remember This' shortcut to your **Control Center** via the Settings app for easy access. 2. When you find something on your screen you want to save, swipe down to open the **Control Center**. 3. Tap the 'Remember This' shortcut icon. The shortcut will hide the Control Center and automatically take a screenshot. 4. The AI will process the screenshot to generate a summary and title. A new Apple Note is then created and opened, containing the summary, a link if one was found, and the screenshot itself. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5870636474a6dcd8fd0bd15cd79356a339700f6d52a2fceba98bc43f6c02a7bc_101e51a7.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Universal Capture**: Save visual information from any app, website, or conversation, even if there's no share button. - **AI-Powered Contextualization**: Automatically get a descriptive title and summary of the screenshot's content, making it easy to understand why you saved it later. - **Automatic Link Extraction**: If a URL is visible in the address bar of a browser, the shortcut intelligently extracts it and includes a clickable link in the note. - **Seamless Organization**: Everything is saved directly into a designated Apple Notes folder, creating a searchable and organized collection of your saved items. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For better organization, create a specific folder in Apple Notes (e.g., "Things to Remember") and configure the shortcut to save all new notes there. You can edit the shortcut and change the destination folder in the **Create note with** action. This turns your Notes app into an intelligent memory bank for anything you see on your screen. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/837abd33ba19b9dae714fcbea92a07f95b7bbb51e78fa92ffc961cb591c18fc2_f5babaf3.jpg) ## Summary The 'Remember This' shortcut transforms the simple act of taking a screenshot into an intelligent information-capturing workflow. By using AI to automatically add context and organize everything in Apple Notes, it solves the problem of having a camera roll full of context-free images. It's an ideal tool for quickly saving visual information you want to act on or refer back to later. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Automate Personalized Birthday Texts with AI # How to Automate Personalized Birthday Texts with AI This guide shows you how to use an advanced shortcut powered by Apple Intelligence to send unique birthday messages to your contacts every year. This automation ensures your greetings are always fresh and personal by referencing past messages to generate new ones. You will need a contact with their birthday saved in the Contacts app to get started. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** 1. First, create a dedicated note for the shortcut to log sent messages. Open the **Notes** app and create a new note titled exactly 'Birthday Texts'. The shortcut will fail if the note has a different name. 2. Open the **Auto Birthday Texts** shortcut. This shortcut is designed to find contacts with a birthday on the current day. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/170d38a7b19f3fd6b8b4ce46f278ee5547c92f410709a658d3a2fa07be0c29e7_205b2319.jpg) 3. Run the shortcut by tapping the play button. A list of contacts whose birthday is today will appear. 4. Select the contact you wish to message from the list and tap **Done**. 5. The shortcut will access your 'Birthday Texts' note, analyze any previous birthday messages sent to that contact, and use AI to generate a new, unique message. 6. A new message window will open with the AI-generated text pre-populated. Review the message and tap the **Send** button. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/72f8e5f71d69afcf5a04b981e6e7c7cf1d177cc6b01fb0350455bedc98f3bb6a_aae4ba5a.jpg) 7. After sending, the shortcut automatically logs the new message in your 'Birthday Texts' note. This creates a history that the AI will use to generate a different message next year. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5247caa031d5f35b8fd11f3ae65721dd57e748bbfc6c4f36a326a1f89c9d2dc2_c2bbdd54.jpg) ### Tips For complete automation, set this shortcut to run automatically every morning. Go to the **Automation** tab in the Shortcuts app, create a new 'Time of Day' automation, and select this shortcut to run daily. The first time you message a contact, the AI will generate a greeting from scratch, as there is no prior message history to reference. ## Summary This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to automate personalized birthday texts using an AI-powered shortcut. It covers the initial setup of a logging note, how to run the shortcut to find contacts, and how the AI generates unique messages by referencing previously sent texts, ensuring your birthday greetings are always thoughtful and original. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() ## Related - [Deep dive into creating smart reminders for text conversations](/whats-new-18-advanced-shortcuts-with-apple-intelligence/how-to-create-smart-reminders-for-text-conversations) - [Deep dive into saving screenshots with AI-generated context ('Remember This')](/whats-new-18-advanced-shortcuts-with-apple-intelligence/deep-dive-into-saving-screenshots-with-ai-generated-context-) - [Deep dive into creating meeting notes from calendar events](/whats-new-18-advanced-shortcuts-with-apple-intelligence/deep-dive-into-creating-meeting-notes-from-calendar-events) --- ### Deep dive into creating AI-powered packing lists # Deep dive into creating AI-powered packing lists Preparing for a trip just got easier. This release introduces an AI-powered packing list generator that automatically creates a comprehensive checklist tailored to your specific travel plans. This feature eliminates the manual effort of creating lists and helps ensure you never forget an essential item again. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The new **Packing List AI** shortcut leverages a powerful AI model to generate a detailed packing checklist based on your answers to a few simple questions. The shortcut asks for your destination, trip duration, planned activities, and luggage type. It then creates a new, titled checklist directly in your **Reminders** app, with each suggested item as a separate task you can check off as you pack. ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Packing List AI** shortcut from your shortcuts library. 2. Answer the on-screen prompts for your destination, trip length, and special activities. 3. Select the type of luggage you will be using from the menu. 4. Wait for the AI to generate your personalized packing list. 5. The shortcut will automatically create and open the new checklist in your **Reminders** app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/50b986b5c3195a0f8e1406e733b35ea50314dac90721a00f97f1e944bffe5c62_75d87c68.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Context-Aware Suggestions:** The AI provides item recommendations based on your destination's climate and your planned activities, such as suggesting a rash guard for scuba diving. - **Smart Quantity Recommendations:** Get suggestions for the number of clothing items to pack based on the duration of your trip. - **Seamless Reminders Integration:** Your packing list is automatically created as a new checklist in the **Reminders** app, making it easy to access and use. - **Simple Guided Workflow:** A straightforward, question-based process makes generating a detailed list quick and intuitive. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the most accurate results, be specific when answering the prompts. Instead of just "vacation," mention activities like "hiking," "beach days," or "formal dinners." The more detail you provide, the more tailored and useful your packing list will be. ## Summary The AI-powered packing list generator simplifies trip preparation by creating intelligent, personalized checklists directly in your Reminders app. By leveraging AI to consider your destination, trip length, and activities, it ensures you pack smarter, not harder, saving you time and reducing the stress of forgetting something important. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into marking and retrieving your parked car's location # Deep dive into marking and retrieving your parked car's location Never lose your car in a crowded parking lot again. This new shortcut provides a simple, manual way to mark your car's location and get walking directions back to it later. It's a perfect solution for when automatic detection isn't available or when you just want a quick, reliable way to save your spot. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The new **Mark Parking Spot** shortcut offers a straightforward menu-driven interface to save and retrieve your car's location. When you run the shortcut, you can choose to either **Log Parking Spot**, which captures your current GPS coordinates, or **Retrieve Parking**, which opens Apple Maps with walking directions to your saved spot. This feature utilizes native iOS actions, ensuring seamless integration without needing third-party apps. ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Mark Parking Spot** shortcut from your library, Home Screen, or Control Center. 2. From the menu that appears, select **Log Parking Spot** to save your current location. 3. When you're ready to return to your car, run the shortcut again and select **Retrieve Parking**. 4. Apple Maps will automatically open and provide you with walking directions back to your vehicle. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/dc6ddf14f47273b7f6ede15d7eb56cc599a3d61601bdb5826d9d28a49aa4fea3_5ce42cae.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Manual Location Logging:** Save your car's location with a single tap, perfect for situations where automatic detection via CarPlay or Bluetooth isn't an option. - **Instant Directions:** Quickly retrieve walking directions back to your saved spot directly within Apple Maps. - **No Third-Party Apps Required:** The entire workflow uses built-in iOS functionality, ensuring privacy and reliability. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For even quicker access, add the shortcut to your Home Screen or Control Center. You can also create a personal automation that triggers the **Set Parked Car** action whenever your iPhone disconnects from your car's CarPlay or Bluetooth. This makes the process fully automatic. Alternatively, simply ask Siri, "Where did I park my car?" to retrieve the location and get directions. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a5dbb38a9c32ef8494e39e6d7d077fbf1abd9210d702e8a86e867ae893764e32_2de1879a.jpg) ## Summary The **Mark Parking Spot** shortcut is a powerful yet simple tool that eliminates the stress of finding your car. Whether you prefer a manual trigger or want to set up a fully automated workflow, this feature provides a flexible and reliable way to save your location and get back to your vehicle with ease. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to create smart reminders for text conversations # How to create smart reminders for text conversations Never forget to reply to an important text message again. This new shortcut, Text Convo to Reminders, creates a rich, context-aware reminder for any text conversation. It automatically generates a title, attaches a screenshot for context, and sets an alert that triggers not just after a set time, but also the next time you start messaging that specific person. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new We've introduced a powerful new shortcut that bridges the gap between your messages and your tasks. The **Text Convo to Reminders** shortcut uses a combination of on-device intelligence and system integrations to capture the context of a conversation and turn it into an actionable reminder. It creates a new task in a dedicated 'Message Tasks' list within the Reminders app, complete with a summary, a visual reference, and a direct link back to the conversation. ## How to use this feature 1. From an iMessage conversation, tap the contact's name at the top, then tap and hold on their phone number and select **Copy**. 2. Run the **Text Convo to Reminders** shortcut. For quick access, you can add it to your Control Center. 3. The shortcut will automatically take a screenshot, generate a title, and create a new task in your Reminders app. 4. The reminder includes a time-based alert (defaulting to 3 hours) and a person-based alert that triggers when you message that contact again. 5. Tap the message icon within the reminder to jump directly back to the conversation. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/34895daec1b70af552ae9aeb0eb9c1250209fc701798501643baf3ef814e67dc_74218a52.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **AI-Powered Summaries:** The shortcut analyzes the on-screen text to create a concise and relevant title for your reminder, so you know what it's about at a glance. - **Contextual Alerts:** Get reminded not just after a certain amount of time, but also at the most relevant moment—right when you start a new conversation with that person. - **Visual Context:** A screenshot of the conversation is automatically attached to the reminder, providing a complete visual cue of the message you need to address. - **Seamless Integration:** The reminder includes a deep link that takes you directly back to the specific iMessage thread, eliminating the need to search for it. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the quickest access, add the shortcut to your **Control Center**. You can customize the default reminder time by editing the shortcut and changing the '3 hours' value in the 'Add' action. This feature works best when the contact's phone number is copied to the clipboard before running, as this enables the smart person-based trigger. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/888aee6a6a4c6337a8520a08616d7f9982321f2f5e04096b39ab1028b830c7ed_610f2329.jpg) ## Summary The Text Convo to Reminders shortcut is a powerful tool for managing your personal and professional communications. By intelligently capturing the context of a conversation and creating a multi-faceted reminder, it ensures you never drop the ball on an important reply. It’s the perfect way to turn a fleeting thought—'I need to get back to them'—into an organized, actionable task. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into automatically playing your latest Apple Music playlist # Deep dive into automatically playing your latest Apple Music playlist This new shortcut solves a common request from Apple Music users: how to automatically play the most recently created playlist. Instead of manually searching through your library, you can now use this shortcut to instantly find and play your latest collection of songs with a single tap, making it easier than ever to jump right into your freshest mix. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The **Play Latest Playlist** shortcut intelligently finds and plays the playlist you most recently created in Apple Music. While Shortcuts doesn't offer a built-in way to sort playlists by creation date, this solution leverages the powerful third-party app 'Actions' to accomplish this. The shortcut uses the **Find Music Playlist** action from the Actions app to sort your playlists by **Date Created**, grabs the newest one, and immediately starts playing it. ## Getting started 1. First, ensure you have the 'Actions' app installed from the App Store, as this shortcut depends on it. 2. Download the **Play Latest Playlist** shortcut and add it to your Shortcuts library. 3. Run the shortcut from the **Shortcuts** app, a Home Screen widget, or by using Siri. 4. The shortcut will automatically identify your most recent playlist and begin playback in the Music app. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e59341503e84a411becb7e7cb9d2ed28c2a33c98af4c8b49f2a33d919fefb56d_c42377a2.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **One-Tap Playback:** Immediately plays your newest playlist without needing to open the Music app and search for it. - **Smart Sorting:** Uses the creation date to accurately find the most recent playlist, even if you have hundreds of them. - **Automation-Ready:** Can be easily added to a Personal Automation, such as triggering when you connect to CarPlay or a specific Bluetooth speaker. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For a seamless experience, create a Personal Automation to run this shortcut whenever your iPhone connects to your car's Bluetooth. This allows you to start listening to your latest tunes hands-free as soon as you get in the car. Note that because this shortcut relies on a third-party app, it will not run on Apple Watch. ## Summary The **Play Latest Playlist** shortcut removes the friction of finding and playing your newest music collection. By combining the power of the third-party 'Actions' app with native Shortcuts functionality, it offers a simple and automatable way to keep your listening experience fresh and effortless. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into combining multiple Apple Music playlists into one # Deep dive into combining multiple Apple Music playlists into one Managing multiple playlists for different moods or activities can be cumbersome. The new **Copy Multiple Playlists To One** Shortcut automates the process of merging songs from several Apple Music playlists into a single, consolidated list. This is perfect for creating master playlists for offline listening on your Apple Watch, preparing for a long trip, or simply combining your favorite smaller playlists into one definitive collection. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This feature introduces a powerful automation that programmatically gathers all tracks from a list of specified source playlists and appends them to a single destination playlist of your choice. Instead of manually adding songs from various playlists one by one, you can now configure the Shortcut once with your desired playlist names and let it handle the entire consolidation process automatically. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a5a6287b37b87a864aaff0f15e51da3640e2884315da16a4dd791d43e98d6d98_875424c5.jpg) ## Getting started 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app and locate the **Copy Multiple Playlists To One** Shortcut to begin. 2. In the initial **Text** block, replace the placeholder text with the exact names of the playlists you wish to combine. Each playlist name must be on its own line. 3. Scroll down to the **Add Repeat Item 2 to Playlist** action. 4. Tap the blue **Playlist** variable and select the destination playlist where you want to add the songs. You can create a new, empty playlist in Apple Music beforehand for a clean merge. 5. Run the Shortcut by tapping the play button. The shortcut will process each source playlist and copy its songs to your selected destination playlist. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1256545e05138f59064dcec751e4c475e11629a74c3d808d57339e99ef6381a3_e83950ea.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automated Consolidation:** Combine an unlimited number of playlists without manually dragging songs. Just list their names and run the shortcut. - **Prepare for Offline Use:** Quickly create a single, comprehensive playlist to download for offline listening on your Apple Watch or iPhone during travel or workouts. - **Create Master Mixes:** Merge genre-specific, decade-specific, or artist-specific playlists into a single, ultimate collection. - **One-Time Setup:** Once you've defined your source and destination playlists, you can run the shortcut anytime to re-sync or update your master list. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results, ensure the playlist names you enter in the **Text** block match the names in your Apple Music library exactly, including capitalization and symbols. It is also recommended to create a new, empty playlist as the destination to avoid duplicating songs or mixing them with existing tracks. If you are combining large playlists, allow the shortcut a few moments to complete the process before checking the results. ## Summary The **Copy Multiple Playlists To One** shortcut is a powerful tool for efficiently organizing your Apple Music library. By automating the tedious process of merging playlists, it saves you time and effort, allowing you to easily create large, customized collections for any occasion. This is an essential automation for anyone looking to better manage their music for offline listening or create definitive master playlists. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into dictating and summarizing journal entries with AI # Deep dive into dictating and summarizing journal entries with AI Capture your thoughts effortlessly with the new AI-powered journal dictation shortcut. This feature allows you to dictate a journal entry using your voice, and then uses Apple Intelligence to automatically summarize your thoughts into a structured, bulleted list, generate a relevant title, and save it directly to the Apple Journal app. It's the fastest way to turn spoken ideas into organized journal entries. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The new **Dictate Journal Entry AI 2** shortcut introduces a seamless workflow for creating journal entries without typing. When you run the shortcut, it prompts you to dictate your thoughts. The audio is transcribed, then processed by two separate AI models: one to summarize the content into a bulleted list and another to generate a descriptive title. The final, formatted entry is then automatically created in your Apple Journal app. ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Dictate Journal Entry AI 2** shortcut from your Shortcuts library, a widget, or by using Siri. 2. When the listening prompt appears, begin speaking your journal entry. 3. Once you're finished speaking, the shortcut will process the text, generate a summary and title, and create the entry. 4. The Apple Journal app will open, displaying your newly created, fully formatted entry. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bc01a85f844f62bd1848af5354ae7d33dc184c335b4969ac226243f7dfde55fb_0d2f529a.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Hands-Free Journaling**: Create entries entirely through voice dictation, perfect for capturing thoughts while walking or driving. - **AI-Powered Summarization**: The shortcut intelligently condenses your spoken words into a 3-4 point bulleted list, highlighting the key parts of your day. - **Automatic Title Generation**: No need to think of a title; the shortcut analyzes the content of your entry and creates a fitting title for you. - **Direct Journal App Integration**: Your formatted entry is saved directly into the official Apple Journal app, complete with the current date. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8d1bf7d0204a4a3d131065289446f790a62caeec3fdf75cc21961d099c36577a_ccacd43c.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the quickest access, add this shortcut to your Home Screen or set it as an Action Button shortcut. You can also customize the AI prompts within the shortcut itself. For example, you can change the summarization style from a bulleted list to a short paragraph by editing the text in the **Use Cloud model** action. ## Summary The Dictate Journal Entry AI shortcut transforms the way you journal by removing the friction of manual typing and formatting. By combining dictation with intelligent summarization and titling, it allows you to capture meaningful moments instantly. This makes journaling more accessible and ensures you can consistently record your thoughts with minimal effort. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into tracking multiple Amazon prices # Deep dive into tracking multiple Amazon prices Keeping track of prices for multiple items during holiday sales or when building a wishlist can be a tedious process of checking each product page individually. The new 'Check Amazon Prices' shortcut solves this by allowing you to monitor several products at once from a single, convenient list. This automation saves you time and helps ensure you never miss a price drop on items you're watching. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This new shortcut is designed to track multiple Amazon product prices efficiently. By providing a list of URLs from the price-tracking website CamelCamelCamel, the shortcut fetches the contents of each page, uses AI to extract the product name, current price, and a direct link to the Amazon product page. It then presents all this information in a clear, selectable list, allowing you to jump directly to any item's purchase page. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1f6b357fd2c9a8254830cbce4138530aca80694415b284b50517c38c42f6e779_93aad05a.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Find the products you wish to track on Amazon and locate their corresponding pages on CamelCamelCamel.com. 2. Copy the URL for each CamelCamelCamel product page. 3. Open the **Check Amazon Prices** shortcut and paste each URL into the **Text** block. Ensure each URL is on a new line. 4. Run the shortcut to generate a list of all tracked products with their current prices. 5. Select any item from the generated list to be taken directly to its Amazon page for purchase. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f447bfa9720c1e8a1c633aee875a3ea7fe145824f021b69a61747489d6daeadd_f9e5048e.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Simultaneous Price Checks**: Monitor the prices of multiple Amazon items at the same time without manual browsing. - **Centralized Information**: View product names, current prices, and direct purchase links in a single, organized list. - **AI-Powered Parsing**: Automatically extracts and formats key product details from each webpage using an integrated AI model. - **Easy Customization**: Add or remove items from your tracking list by simply editing the URLs within the shortcut's **Text** block. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To get started, make sure you use the product page URL from CamelCamelCamel.com, not the direct Amazon URL. You can easily add new items to track by opening the shortcut, adding a new line in the text field, and pasting the new URL. Please note that when you click through to Amazon, the shortcut automatically appends an affiliate tag to the link. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3c7e4c0234fab037b7095d347ebae376f4959e8304d8c2070a563c27783b682d_45239c8f.jpg) ## Summary The 'Check Amazon Prices' shortcut transforms how you shop online by automating the tedious task of price tracking across multiple products. It's a powerful tool for savvy shoppers, especially during major sales events, providing a quick and clear way to compare prices and jump directly to the best deals. By centralizing your wishlist into a single, dynamic shortcut, you can make smarter purchasing decisions with minimal effort. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into tracking food macros with an updated Food Tracker # Deep dive into tracking food macros with an updated Food Tracker The Food Tracker App shortcut has been enhanced to provide more precise and flexible nutritional logging. This update solves the common problem of tracking partial or multiple servings of a food item, ensuring your macro and calorie counts are more accurate than ever. By allowing you to specify exact serving sizes, the shortcut removes the guesswork from your daily food diary. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This update introduces a new prompt that appears after you scan a barcode. The shortcut will now ask you to input the number of servings you consumed, allowing for decimal values like 0.5 for half a serving or 2 for a double portion. Additionally, we've expanded the macro tracking capabilities to include **Fiber**, giving you a more complete picture of your daily intake alongside calories, protein, carbs, fats, and water. ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Food Tracker App** shortcut from your shortcuts library. 2. From the main menu, select **Scan Barcode** to open the camera. 3. After successfully scanning the item, a new prompt will appear asking, **How many servings did you consume?** 4. Enter the number of servings. You can use whole numbers (1, 2, 3) or decimals for partial servings (e.g., 0.5, 1.5). 5. Tap **Done**. The shortcut will automatically calculate the correct nutritional information based on your input and add it to your daily food log in Apple Notes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f447bfa9720c1e8a1c633aee875a3ea7fe145824f021b69a61747489d6daeadd_f9e5048e.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Accurate Serving Sizes:** Log exact portions by entering whole numbers or decimals for servings. - **Automatic Macro Calculation:** The shortcut automatically adjusts calorie and macro counts based on the number of servings you enter. - **Expanded Nutritional Data:** Track your daily fiber intake in addition to calories, protein, carbs, fats, and water. - **Flexible Logging:** Whether you eat half a protein bar or two bowls of cereal, the tracker can handle it with a single scan. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature You can customize the macros that the shortcut tracks. To add or remove a nutritional field (like sugar or sodium), you will need to edit the shortcut. Modify the prompts in the **Use ChatGPT** actions to include your desired fields, and be sure to create and update the corresponding variables that log the data to your Apple Note. This allows you to tailor the Food Tracker to your specific dietary goals. ## Summary The updated Food Tracker shortcut brings a new level of precision to your nutritional logging. By allowing you to specify the exact number of servings consumed, it ensures that your daily totals for calories, macros, and now fiber are as accurate as possible. This enhancement makes it easier than ever to maintain a detailed food diary and stay on track with your health and fitness objectives. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into transcribing and summarizing podcasts # Deep dive into transcribing and summarizing podcasts The new **Transcribe My Podcasts** shortcut transforms how you consume audio content by automatically converting podcast episodes into detailed notes. This feature solves the challenge of capturing key information from long episodes by generating a full transcript, an AI-powered summary, and a list of key ideas. It's the perfect tool for turning passive listening into an active, searchable knowledge base. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a powerful, customizable shortcut that leverages an improved on-device **Transcribe** action, now more reliable than ever on iPhone and iPad. The shortcut fetches the latest episode from any public podcast's RSS feed, processes the audio, and uses an AI model to distill the content into actionable insights. The final result is a well-structured Apple Note containing the episode title, publish date, a concise summary, bulleted key ideas, and the complete transcript for easy reference. ## How to use this feature 1. Download and open the **Transcribe My Podcasts** shortcut to begin customization. 2. In the **Choose from menu** action, add or edit the names of the podcasts you want to transcribe. 3. For each podcast name in the menu, find its corresponding section below and paste its public RSS feed URL into the **Text** block. 4. Run the shortcut and select a podcast from the list you created. 5. The shortcut will automatically process the latest episode and open a new Apple Note with the full summary and transcript. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f17da9d30e32805656b0341a59f7cc3a2eea9e1c30f33743e397ead2fb6fe742_444098fd.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automatic Transcription:** Convert entire podcast episodes into searchable text directly on your device. - **AI-Powered Summarization:** Get a high-level summary and a bulleted list of key takeaways to quickly understand an episode's core message. - **Customizable Podcast Library:** Easily configure the shortcut to work with any public podcast by adding its name and RSS feed. - **Organized Note Creation:** Automatically generate a neatly formatted Apple Note that includes the episode title, date, summary, key ideas, and the full transcript. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To find a podcast's RSS feed, try a web search for "[Podcast Name] RSS feed" or look for an RSS link on the podcast's website. Since transcribing audio can be resource-intensive, running the shortcut on longer episodes may take a few minutes. For best results, ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi. ## Summary The **Transcribe My Podcasts** shortcut is a game-changer for anyone who relies on podcasts for learning or research. By automating the transcription and summarization process, it transforms audio content into a valuable, searchable knowledge library. This allows you to quickly find information, review key topics, and get more value out of every episode you follow. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into quickly jumping to specific Notes folders or tags # Deep dive into quickly jumping to specific Notes folders or tags When you have many folders and tags in Apple Notes, finding the one you need can involve a lot of scrolling. This new Shortcut provides a single, instant way to jump directly to any folder or tag, streamlining your note-taking workflow and saving you time. It's a simple but powerful tool for anyone who relies on Notes for organization. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The new "Jump to Note Folder or Tag" Shortcut presents a simple menu when you run it. You can choose to see a list of all your **Folders** or all your **Tags**. Selecting an item from the list instantly opens the Apple Notes app directly to that specific folder or tag view, bypassing the need to navigate through the app's main interface. ## How to use this feature 1. Run the "Jump To Note Folder Or Tag" Shortcut from the Shortcuts app, a widget, or your Home Screen. 2. From the menu that appears, choose whether you want to see your **Folders** or **Tags**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/462bf3dc58ca01eb520263a6fd09bde1547c6ce1cff0bb018d5a4076965a5cbe_bf8f2384.jpg) 3. A new list will appear showing all available folders or tags. 4. Select the desired folder or tag from the list. The Notes app will immediately open to your selection. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0cae83f270eaeb2854603a933d906153b546ce1bb1803c553eea0959cd0afebb_b8eeeb84.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Access:** Jump directly to any folder or tag without manually navigating the Notes app. - **Unified Navigation:** Provides a single entry point to browse either your folder structure or your tag system. - **Reduced Taps:** Saves several taps and swipes compared to finding a folder or tag within the Notes app. - **Comprehensive Listing:** The Shortcut dynamically pulls all your current folders and tags, so the list is always up-to-date. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the fastest access, add this Shortcut to your Home Screen or include it in a Shortcuts widget. This allows you to jump to a specific folder or tag in just two taps from anywhere on your device. ## Summary This Shortcut acts as a powerful navigation tool for the Apple Notes app. By offering a quick menu to access any folder or tag directly, it eliminates cumbersome scrolling and helps you find the information you need faster than ever. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating checklists in Apple Notes from text # Deep dive into creating checklists in Apple Notes from text Quickly transform any list of text into a fully interactive checklist directly within Apple Notes. This new shortcut eliminates the need to manually create each checklist item, allowing you to paste or type a list and instantly convert it into a format you can check off. It’s a simple yet powerful way to streamline the creation of grocery lists, to-do lists, and more. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a new shortcut built around the powerful **Append checklist item** action. This action allows you to programmatically add interactive checklist items to a new or existing Apple Note. The shortcut prompts you for text input, with each new line treated as a separate checklist item, and then automatically generates a titled note with your interactive list ready to use. ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Note Checklist** shortcut from your library. 2. First, select the folder in Apple Notes where you want to save your new checklist. 3. When prompted, type or paste the items for your checklist, ensuring each item is on a new line. 4. Tap **Done**. The shortcut will automatically create a new note with today's date in the title and populate it with your items as an interactive checklist. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b941d4b4fe4ec4fa7876ba05dab29ba27dc3916cfc0717f8dcd8639ef0d79c33_988031f4.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automated Note Creation:** Generates a new, titled Apple Note without you having to open the app first. - **Multi-item Input:** Accepts multiple lines of text at once and intelligently splits them into individual checklist items. - **Interactive Checkboxes:** Uses the native Apple Notes checklist format, allowing you to tap the bubbles to mark items as complete. - **Folder Organization:** Lets you choose a specific folder for your new checklist, keeping your notes organized from the start. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature You can easily customize the default title for your new checklist. In the shortcut editor, expand the first action, **Create note**, and modify the text in the **Name** field. For example, you could change it to ask you for a title each time you run the shortcut for more flexibility. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/adcb8f465f8d5dfbc17231ed18d0852af1a61ad1511e84d3bad3477fccd5fab5_99257051.jpg) ## Summary The Create Notes Checklist shortcut offers a fast and efficient way to generate interactive lists in Apple Notes. By automating the process of creating a note and adding individual checklist items, it bridges the gap between simple text and organized, actionable tasks. This is perfect for anyone who frequently makes lists and wants to save time on manual entry. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into scanning invoices and logging data to a spreadsheet # Deep dive into scanning invoices and logging data to a spreadsheet Managing invoices and tracking expenses can be a tedious manual process. The new Invoice Scanner shortcut is designed to eliminate this hassle by allowing you to digitize invoices and automatically log key information into a spreadsheet. Whether you have a physical receipt or a digital PDF, this tool extracts the essential data and organizes it for you, saving you time and improving your record-keeping accuracy. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The **Invoice Scanner** is a powerful new shortcut that streamlines your financial workflow. It lets you choose between uploading an existing invoice file or scanning a physical document directly with your device's camera. Using AI, the shortcut intelligently parses the document to identify and extract the vendor name, date, invoice number, and total cost. This information is then automatically appended as a new row to a designated Apple Numbers spreadsheet, creating a structured and easily accessible log of your business expenses. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c938749fd8beb26a9bffd2cda6e45fc174967c47aa1eaa886ba4ba54bdc7d7a7_b1e63ee1.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Invoice Scanner** shortcut from your library. 2. Select the appropriate business if you have configured multiple. 3. Choose whether to **Upload** an existing PDF or **Scan** a physical document. 4. If scanning, capture the invoice using the camera. If uploading, select the file from your device. 5. The shortcut will process the document, extract the key information, and add it as a new entry in your designated Numbers spreadsheet. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d9ce1e766f667ab6b9fa5ee89ec0bc7c125f52950ae2af18b20a0ec8f600c2ad_da1ede5e.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Multi-Business Support:** Easily categorize invoices by selecting the relevant business from a simple menu before scanning or uploading. - **Flexible Input:** Process invoices whether you receive them as physical paper copies (via the Scan option) or digital files (via the Upload option). - **Automated Data Extraction:** Leverages AI to intelligently read the invoice and pull out crucial details like vendor, date, invoice number, and total cost without manual entry. - **Seamless Spreadsheet Integration:** Directly appends the extracted information into an Apple Numbers spreadsheet, creating an automated and organized log for accounting or expense tracking. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature Before you begin, you must configure the shortcut by specifying the Numbers spreadsheet, sheet name, and table where the data should be added. Ensure your spreadsheet has columns that match the extracted data (e.g., Vendor, Date, Invoice Number, Total Cost). For the best scanning experience, installing the third-party app **Toolbox Pro** is recommended, as it enables the document scanning to happen seamlessly within the shortcut. ## Summary The Invoice Scanner shortcut transforms the tedious task of expense logging into a fast, automated process. By combining document scanning, AI-powered data extraction, and direct integration with Apple Numbers, it offers a powerful solution for anyone who needs to track and organize invoices. This tool saves significant time on data entry and helps maintain accurate, up-to-date financial records. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating meeting notes from calendar events # Deep dive into creating meeting notes from calendar events Streamline your meeting preparation with a powerful new shortcut that automatically generates structured meeting notes from your calendar events. This feature eliminates the manual effort of setting up a new note, copying attendees, and retyping the agenda for every meeting. By bridging your calendar and your notes, you can ensure you're always prepared and can focus on the conversation, not the setup. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The **Standing Meeting Notes from Event** shortcut is a new automation that intelligently pulls information from your **Calendar** to create a pre-formatted document in **Apple Notes**. When you run the shortcut, it fetches your upcoming calendar events and allows you to select one. It then extracts the list of **Attendees** and any text from the event's **Notes** field to populate an agenda. The result is a new, neatly organized note with sections for attendees, agenda, priorities, and action items, ready for you to start typing. ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Standing Meeting Notes from Event** shortcut from your library. 2. From the pop-up list, select the upcoming calendar event for which you want to create notes. 3. The shortcut will instantly create and open a new note in **Apple Notes**, pre-populated with the meeting's title, date, attendees, and agenda. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6fb3386f53e485e060c4983696183dd5d2592647d15957474dffaec8832207cc_9c0ae3fc.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automatic Data Population**: Save time by automatically pulling the attendee list and meeting agenda directly from the calendar event. - **Consistent Structure**: Ensure all your meeting notes follow a standardized format with predefined sections for attendees, agenda, priorities, action items, and notes. - **Rich Text Formatting**: The shortcut uses Markdown to create a clean, readable note with bolded H2 headers, making your notes easy to scan. - **Immediate Note-Taking**: The newly created note opens automatically, allowing you to begin capturing key discussion points and action items without delay. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To get the most out of this shortcut, be sure to add your meeting agenda into the **Notes** field of your calendar event before running it. You can also customize the template to fit your needs by editing the **Text** block in the shortcut. Consider adding other common meeting sections like 'Decisions Made' or 'Parking Lot' to tailor the output to your workflow. ## Summary The **Standing Meeting Notes from Event** shortcut is a simple yet powerful tool for anyone who frequently takes meeting notes. By automating the creation of a structured note, it removes friction from your workflow and helps you maintain organized, consistent records for all your important meetings. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into saving and summarizing ChatGPT conversations # Deep dive into saving and summarizing ChatGPT conversations Voice conversations with ChatGPT are incredibly useful for brainstorming and hands-free interaction, but saving those valuable insights has always been a manual process. The new **ChatGPT Voice Summary to Notes** shortcut solves this by allowing you to instantly save and summarize any ChatGPT conversation directly to Apple Notes. This feature ensures you never lose a great idea and makes your AI interactions more productive by creating an organized, searchable archive of your chats. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a powerful new shortcut called **ChatGPT Voice Summary to Notes**. When you share a conversation from the ChatGPT app, this shortcut automatically creates a new entry in Apple Notes. The note is intelligently titled and includes several sections: AI-generated key points, a summary of highlights, and the complete conversation transcript, clearly labeled by speaker. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1c61c5f66055efd85ca36750b5de043946d0307bfcc9ac4c85e0e41a3992c966_6ee83993.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the ChatGPT app and navigate to the voice or text conversation you wish to save. 2. Tap the **three dots (...)** menu at the top right of the conversation and select **Share**. 3. From the options that appear, tap **Share link** to open the iOS share sheet. 4. Scroll through the share sheet and select the **ChatGPT Voice Summary to Notes** shortcut. 5. The shortcut will automatically process the conversation, generate a summary, and open the new, organized note in Apple Notes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/287ed3572fac8be314e2ee11da0ad67f85d53d4136f360bb63dc545e2eb2797a_37f4f6c3.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automatic Summarization:** Instantly get AI-generated key points and highlights from your conversation, making it easy to review the most important information at a glance. - **Full Transcript Archiving:** Save a complete, word-for-word transcript of the entire conversation, with clear labels for 'User' and 'ChatGPT' to distinguish speakers. - **Seamless Workflow:** The shortcut is accessible directly from the ChatGPT app's share sheet, allowing you to save a conversation with just a few taps. - **Intelligent Organization:** Each saved conversation is automatically given a relevant title in Apple Notes, making your archive easy to search and navigate. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To ensure the shortcut is always easy to find, you can enable it in your share sheet. Open the shortcut, tap the **info icon (i)** at the bottom, and toggle on **Show in Share Sheet**. This makes the entire process faster and more convenient, turning a complex task into a simple, one-tap action. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/fc2e70ef13d05acf46e332fb8837cec35ed2f2e93e0c5b0401f9507002f15779_aa925dc6.jpg) ## Summary The **ChatGPT Voice Summary to Notes** shortcut is an essential tool for anyone who relies on ChatGPT for creative or professional work. It bridges the gap between voice interaction and organized record-keeping by transforming conversations into structured, summarized notes. This automation saves time and ensures that your valuable ideas and information are always captured and easily accessible. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into getting specific weather data with the Meteo API # Deep dive into getting specific weather data with the Meteo API Go beyond basic weather forecasts with a new shortcut that connects directly to the Open-Meteo API. This feature allows you to query highly specific weather data, such as soil moisture or air quality, using simple natural language. It's perfect for users who need detailed environmental information for gardening, outdoor activities, or specialized automations. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release includes the new **Open Meteo Weather** shortcut, which uses an API to pull a wide range of weather data. When you run the shortcut, it prompts you to ask for the data you want in natural language (e.g., "What is the soil moisture for next Monday?"). The shortcut then uses Apple Intelligence to interpret your request, fetch the relevant data from the Open-Meteo service, and display a formatted summary. ## How to use this feature 1. From your shortcuts library, run the **Open Meteo Weather** shortcut. 2. When the prompt appears asking **What data would you like?**, type your question using natural language. 3. Tap **Done** and wait for the shortcut to process your request and display the results. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a1a1fc36bc29c6e0c1cbd68d8c1319f101bd157b14ef5150268690a1c39d247d_a7f82797.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Access granular weather data**: Get information like soil moisture, air quality indexes, and other specific metrics not available in the default Weather app. - **Use natural language queries**: Simply ask what you want to know without needing to understand complex API parameters. - **Integrate into automations**: Customize the shortcut to create automated notifications based on specific weather conditions, such as a warning when soil moisture drops below a certain level. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For recurring needs, you can edit the shortcut to hardcode your query. Replace the **Ask for Text** action with a **Text** block containing your specific question. Then, set up a personal automation to run this shortcut daily and show the result as a notification, giving you an automatic morning brief on the exact weather data you care about. ## Summary The Open Meteo Weather shortcut is a powerful tool for anyone who needs more than a standard weather report. By leveraging a public API and natural language processing, it provides easy access to a wealth of specific environmental data, enabling you to create more sophisticated and personalized weather-aware automations. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating Air Quality warning notifications # Deep dive into creating Air Quality warning notifications Stay informed about your local air quality with the new Air Quality Index Warning shortcut. This automation proactively checks the hourly weather forecast, identifies the highest predicted Air Quality Index (AQI) for the day, and sends you a notification if it exceeds a level you define. It's an essential tool for anyone in areas with fluctuating air quality who needs timely alerts to plan their outdoor activities safely. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This new shortcut leverages a combination of built-in actions to provide intelligent environmental monitoring. It uses the **Get Hourly forecast** action to pull detailed air quality data for your current location. This data is then passed to the **Use Cloud model** action, which uses Apple Intelligence to parse the forecast and pinpoint the worst AQI value and the specific time it will occur. An **If** condition then checks this value against a customizable threshold to determine whether to send a **Show notification** alert. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8cf6a222184ffa14dd42b4c791c785f2e7b4d96bb515e4e64d9105a6e2a50f4a_f71366ae.jpg) ## Getting started 1. Download the **Air Quality Index Warning** shortcut from the gallery. 2. Open the shortcut and locate the **If** action. Change the number (default is 75) to your preferred AQI threshold for receiving a warning. 3. Navigate to the **Automation** tab in the Shortcuts app and create a new **Time of Day** automation. 4. Set your desired time (e.g., every morning at 8:00 AM) and ensure **Run Immediately** is selected. 5. Add the **Run Shortcut** action and select the **Air Quality Index Warning** shortcut. ## Key capabilities - **Proactive Alerts:** Automatically receive a notification on days when the air quality is predicted to be poor, without needing to manually check the weather. - **Customizable Sensitivity:** Easily adjust the AQI threshold within the shortcut's **If** statement to match your personal health needs or sensitivity to air quality changes. - **Intelligent Forecasting:** The shortcut uses AI to analyze the entire day's hourly forecast to find the single worst AQI value, so you're aware of the day's peak risk. - **Detailed Information:** The notification provides both the peak AQI number and the time it is expected to occur, giving you actionable information to plan your day. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To customize your alert, navigate to the **If** action in the shortcut. If you want a notification for any AQI higher than 50 (Moderate), simply change the value from 75 to 50. You can also edit the text in the **Show notification** action to add more context or personalize the message that appears on your screen. ## Summary The Air Quality Index Warning shortcut is a practical tool for health-conscious users, transforming passive weather data into active, personalized alerts. By automating daily checks and leveraging AI for smart analysis, you can stay ahead of poor air quality conditions effortlessly. Set it up once as a daily automation to ensure you always have the information you need to protect your well-being. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## Shortcuts for AI Social Search, Personal Knowledge Base, Smart File Renaming) ### Overview: 17 insanely powerful Apple Shortcuts # Overview: 17 insanely powerful Apple Shortcuts

Most people use their iPhone for years without ever touching the Shortcuts app. They're missing out. With the latest updates to iOS and Apple Intelligence, Shortcuts has gone from a cool gimmick to a serious productivity powerhouse. We've put together a list of 17 new shortcuts that actually solve real problems. We're talking about chatting with PDF manuals using AI, instantly finding food spots from Instagram screenshots, and organizing your files automatically. These aren't just novelties. They save you time every single day. In this post, we'll break them down by category so you can grab the ones you need. We'll start with the food and travel tools, then dive into the heavy hitters like the AI Knowledge Base. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## Find and track food spots We've all been there. You see a great burger on Instagram, screenshot it, and then forget about it forever. Or you travel to a city you've visited before and can't remember that amazing coffee shop. This trio of shortcuts fixes that. ### Identify places from screenshots The **Find Local Food Spots** shortcut is magic. It uses Apple Intelligence to scan a photo—even if the location isn't tagged—and finds the business in Apple Maps. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/cf342936848d026094e659a3caa36596a491115778b7d231bafa3913435d4fe7_69d96da8.jpg) 1. Add the **Find Local Food Spots** shortcut to your Control Center 2. When you see a tasty post on social media, swipe down and tap the shortcut 3. It takes a screenshot automatically and dismisses the Control Center 4. The shortcut identifies the restaurant based on logos or text and opens it directly in **Apple Maps** Once you find a spot, use the **Favorite Food Spots** shortcut to rate it and save it to a personal database in Apple Notes. Later, when you're back in town, run **Favorite Places When Traveling** to instantly see your top-rated spots nearby. ## Your personal AI knowledge base This is arguably the most powerful tool in the list. Instead of scrolling through a 100-page PDF manual to find out how to reset your blinds or fix your car, you can just ask your phone. It uses ChatGPT and Apple Intelligence to read your documents and give you specific answers with page references. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4baea351957e5280baca1803cf035adcf6a242de38011597097729818c2cea6f_c20feabe.jpg) ### How to set it up 1. Save your PDF manuals (car, appliances, electronics) to a specific folder in **iCloud Drive** 2. Run the **Knowledge Base AI** shortcut 3. Select the manual you want to query from the list 4. Type your question naturally, like "How do I factory reset these shades?" 5. The AI reads the doc and gives you step-by-step instructions, plus the page number where it found the info Pro tip: You can use the **Get Contents of Folder** action to pre-select your manuals folder so you don't have to navigate to it every time. ## Movies, TV, and Sports Stop scrolling through Netflix endlessly. We've built shortcuts that tap into databases to show you what's actually popular right now, not just what the algorithm wants you to see. - **Top Movies/TV by Category:** Pick a genre like Sci-Fi or Drama. It pulls a list of popular titles, shows you the plot, and gives you a direct streaming link to Apple TV, Netflix, or Amazon. - **World Cup Schedule:** With the big games coming in 2026, this shortcut checks the API to tell you if there are games today and who is playing. No Google search required. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a3c8657a14710cf86a0456f9738e9ed1f2124407e37c91f2034f283d5101ac0d_d867fb99.jpg) ## Everyday utilities These are the "quality of life" upgrades. Simple actions that remove friction from your daily routine. ### Text to Grocery List If your partner texts you a random list of items to buy, don't switch back and forth between apps. Run this shortcut from your Control Center while looking at the text. It takes a screenshot, extracts the text using Apple Intelligence, and adds every item to your Reminders Grocery list. It even auto-categorizes them into Produce, Dairy, and Meat. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/18bc7b59b5155243185da3d1e523b5fb464fdcda35e535f1032840b8db6510e7_e732c932.jpg) ### Never forget a face The **People Met Database** is perfect for conferences or networking. It asks you a few quick questions: Who did you meet? Do they have kids? What did you talk about? It then saves a formatted note with the date, location, and all those details. You can even use another shortcut later to ask AI questions like "Who did I talk to about YouTube subscriptions?" and it will pull up the right person. ## Intelligent file management File management on iOS and Mac can be messy. These shortcuts clean it up automatically. - **Import Audio to Music:** Take any audio file from your Files app and instantly add it to your Apple Music library. You can even re-encode it to MP3 on the fly. - **Rename Files with AI:** This is huge. Select a file with a gibberish name (like a photo or a download). The AI looks at the content of the file and renames it to something descriptive, like "Wireless Charger 25W" or "Podcast Launch Program." - **File Converter:** A quick utility to swap formats between PDF, JPG, and PNG without uploading your files to some sketchy website. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/adfade5b61a2b9453fcf771027864a5c4c8bd0f85e0e7f9abd9ada19aafbc32d_39d330de.jpg) ## Seasonal and smart alerts Finally, a couple of shortcuts to help you handle the weather and the holidays. The **Frost Alert** checks the forecast overnight. If the temperature drops below freezing, it sends you a notification and sets a reminder to cover your windshield. No more scraping ice in the morning because you forgot to check the weather. And for the holidays, the **Auto Send Holiday Text** lets you blast out a "Happy Thanksgiving" or "Merry Christmas" message to a specific contact group. It sends them individually, so it doesn't create a massive, annoying group chat. ## Start building There is a ton of power here waiting to be unlocked. Whether you just want to track your favorite restaurants or build a full personal CRM, these shortcuts give you the foundation. Grab the ones that fit your workflow and give them a shot. You might be surprised at how much time you save. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into finding local food spots from social media images # Deep dive into finding local food spots from social media images Have you ever seen a photo of a delicious meal or a unique café on social media, only to find the location wasn't tagged? Our new 'Find Local Food Spots' shortcut uses Apple Intelligence to solve this problem. It analyzes any image or screenshot to identify the business and opens its location directly in Apple Maps, turning inspiration into your next dining destination. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a powerful new shortcut, **Find Local Food Spots**, that leverages on-device intelligence to identify businesses from your photos. Whether you're using a saved screenshot from Instagram or taking one in the moment, the shortcut analyzes visual cues like logos, signs, and any visible text to find the location. It then automatically opens the business in Apple Maps for you. Additionally, two companion shortcuts, **Favorite Food Spots** and **Lookup Fav Food Spots**, allow you to build and query a personal database of your favorite restaurants, complete with your own ratings. ## Getting started 1. Run the **Find Local Food Spots** shortcut from your Shortcuts library. 2. When prompted, choose to either **Take a Screenshot** of the social media post on your screen or **Choose from Photos** to select a saved image. 3. The shortcut will analyze the image and use your current location to narrow down the results. 4. The identified business location will automatically open in Apple Maps, ready for you to get directions or save. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1fff90d4afd760ec32674fce74c38ca5336b6962024682e9d944aaf575be4f01_60e8060f.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Identify locations from images:** Uses AI to find restaurants, cafes, and other businesses from photos even if they aren't geotagged. - **Works with screenshots:** Seamlessly capture a post from any social media app and find the location instantly without saving the image to your camera roll. - **Build a personal food database:** Use the **Favorite Food Spots** shortcut to rate places you visit. The shortcut saves the location, your rating, and a direct link to Apple Maps in a dedicated note. - **Rediscover favorites while traveling:** Run the **Lookup Fav Food Spots** shortcut to find previously saved and highly-rated spots near your current location, perfect for when you're visiting a city again. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6dd63a7f7ce1e84dc6c773863341746f4212993c59c9901eaddb7d8e4bb71fe6_fec6b2e8.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the fastest access, add the **Find Local Food Spots** shortcut to your Control Center. When you see an interesting place on social media, you can swipe down, tap the shortcut, and choose 'Take a Screenshot' for a seamless one-tap workflow. The shortcut also automatically logs every place it finds into a 'Local Food Spots' note, creating a handy history of your discoveries. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/2a7b2ad8eb040cb83028100e47b3d26e26fd734d3ed5f87d09fcd0334290ff35_29df30de.jpg) ## Summary The new set of food-finding shortcuts transforms how you discover and remember places to eat. By using AI to bridge the gap between social media content and real-world locations, you can effortlessly find new spots, create a personalized guide to your favorite restaurants, and easily access your list wherever you go. Never again will you have to wonder where that amazing-looking dish was from. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating a database of your favorite food spots # Deep dive into creating a database of your favorite food spots Ever discover a great restaurant while traveling, only to forget its name when you visit the city again? This release introduces a powerful way to build, rate, and recall your favorite food spots using a set of interconnected shortcuts. You can now create a personal, location-aware database of restaurants you've enjoyed, ensuring you never lose track of a great meal. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new We've added a pair of smart shortcuts—**`Favorite Food Spots`** and **`Lookup Fav Food Spots`**—that work together to turn a simple Apple Note into a dynamic database. When you visit a new place, the **`Favorite Food Spots`** shortcut lets you find it based on your current location, add a star rating, and automatically save it. Later, when you're looking for a recommendation, the **`Lookup Fav Food Spots`** shortcut uses your current location to intelligently pull only the relevant saved spots from your database. ## Getting started 1. **Saving a new spot**: When you're at a restaurant you want to save, run the **`Favorite Food Spots`** shortcut. 2. Choose the correct business from the list of nearby locations. 3. Select a star rating from 1 to 5. The shortcut will automatically create or append an entry to your 'Favorite Food Spots' note in Apple Notes. 4. **Finding a saved spot**: To find your favorite places nearby, run the **`Lookup Fav Food Spots`** shortcut. 5. The shortcut will analyze your database and display a list of your saved restaurants that are close to your current location. 6. Select a restaurant from the list to open its location directly in Apple Maps for directions. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a5054d1781a8595a402d194a4e0b584c9dcacc1accda7a48d1b02034cd0475a5_487b32f9.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Build a Personal Database**: Automatically log every favorite spot with its name, address, your personal rating, and a map link into a single, organized Apple Note. - **Location-Aware Retrieval**: When traveling, the system intelligently searches your database to show only the favorite spots you've saved in your current city or area. - **Simple Rating System**: Quickly assign a 1-5 star rating to each entry, helping you remember which places are worth a return visit. - **One-Tap Directions**: Every entry in your database includes a direct link to the location in Apple Maps, making it easy to get directions. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results, run the **`Favorite Food Spots`** shortcut while you are still at the restaurant to ensure accurate location detection. Since the database is a standard Apple Note, you can also manually edit entries, add personal notes about what you ordered, or remove places you no longer recommend. ## Summary This feature transforms the simple act of saving a location into creating a powerful, personalized travel and food guide. By combining location services with a simple rating system and database functionality, you can effortlessly build a reliable list of your go-to spots. It's the perfect tool for foodies and frequent travelers who want to remember and revisit their favorite discoveries. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into looking up favorite places when traveling # Deep dive into looking up favorite places when traveling The 'Favorite Places When Traveling' shortcut helps you quickly discover highly-rated food spots you've previously enjoyed while on the go. It solves the common problem of remembering or finding those hidden gems in cities you've visited before, transforming your past dining experiences into a personalized travel guide. This means you can spend less time searching and more time savoring. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This feature connects directly to your personal 'Favorite Food Spots' database, created using the corresponding shortcut. When activated, it intelligently uses your current location to scan through your saved restaurants and presents you with a curated list of places near you that you've already rated highly. This means you have an instant, reliable source of recommendations built entirely from your own experiences, wherever your travels take you. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c3e696abdefee0759a6852ed063ee25bdceb6c0c783767fdc0580c6f4adf004f_09045e7b.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Ensure you've previously used the 'Favorite Food Spots' shortcut to save and rate restaurants you've enjoyed. 2. Open the **Shortcuts** app and tap the **Favorite Places When Traveling** shortcut. 3. The shortcut will automatically detect your current location. 4. A list of your favorite food spots that are near your current location will appear. 5. Tap on a restaurant from the list to view its details. 6. The shortcut will then open Apple Maps, providing you with navigation options to your chosen favorite spot. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/74b9edeb7daaa9b102194a7157b893a7c132cf8be528970bf30bdf8a9b20e1c2_b845805c.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Personalized Recommendations:** Instantly access restaurants you've already loved, rated, and saved, ensuring a consistently great dining experience. - **Location-Based Filtering:** Automatically filters your saved spots to show only those relevant to your current whereabouts. - **Seamless Navigation:** Get immediate driving or walking directions to your chosen destination via Apple Maps with a single tap. - **Effortless Travel Planning:** Eliminate the guesswork of finding good food in unfamiliar places, whether on vacation or a business trip. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To maximize the utility of this shortcut, consistently use the 'Favorite Food Spots' shortcut to rate and save all the restaurants you try. The more data you feed into your personal database, the smarter and more helpful your recommendations will become. Ensure location services are always enabled for accurate nearby suggestions. ## Summary The 'Favorite Places When Traveling' shortcut is a powerful tool for any food enthusiast who travels. By leveraging your own curated list of top-rated restaurants and your current location, it offers instant, personalized dining suggestions and directions. This makes exploring new cities and revisiting old favorites a delightful and hassle-free experience, ensuring you always find a meal you'll love. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into building a personal knowledge base with AI # Deep dive into building a personal knowledge base with AI The new 'Knowledge Base AI' shortcut empowers you to transform your collection of PDFs and manuals into an intelligent, searchable personal library. Instead of sifting through countless pages for specific answers, you can now ask natural language questions and receive precise, context-aware information. This feature significantly cuts down research time by putting the power of AI at your fingertips, making your stored documents instantly actionable. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a powerful shortcut that leverages Apple Intelligence's 'Use Cloud model' action (which interfaces with generative AI like ChatGPT) to create a personal knowledge base. You can feed it PDF manuals, documents, or any text-based files, and then ask questions directly about their content. The AI will analyze the document and provide direct answers, complete with references to the specific page numbers where the information was found. This turns your static documents into dynamic, queryable resources. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/23ceb06fc34d38adc9bfc3002a3e5d711f23bdd9b41ac05f71fc02d6b8fd25c0_42b76563.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Save your PDF manuals and documents to a dedicated folder in your iCloud Drive (e.g., 'Manuals'). 2. Run the 'Knowledge Base AI' shortcut from your Shortcuts app. 3. Select the specific manual or document you wish to query from the file picker. 4. A prompt will appear asking, 'What would you like to know?' Type your question into the text field. 5. The shortcut will then process the document using AI and display the answer, including the source page number. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/20a18a65e0c971ee7850dbd68efb42699b57291ac82b5d368d30daa200bd1af2_e69d05a5.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Intelligent Document Search:** Quickly find specific information within lengthy PDFs or manuals without manual scanning. - **Contextual Answers:** Receive concise and relevant answers based directly on the content of your chosen document. - **Page Number References:** Each answer is accompanied by the page number from which the information was extracted, allowing for easy verification. - **Personalized Knowledge Base:** Create a bespoke repository of information tailored to your specific needs, from device manuals to research papers. - **Follow-Up Questions:** Engage in a conversational flow to delve deeper into topics or clarify previous answers. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For frequently accessed manuals, consider modifying the shortcut to use a 'Get Contents of Folder' and 'Choose from List' action at the beginning. This way, you won't need to manually browse for the file each time. When asking questions, be as specific as possible to get the most accurate results. For very large documents, break down your questions to focus on distinct sections if initial results are too broad. ## Summary The 'Knowledge Base AI' shortcut revolutionizes how you interact with your digital documents. By harnessing Apple Intelligence, it transforms static manuals and PDFs into a dynamic, queryable knowledge base. This feature offers instant access to information, reduces tedious manual searches, and provides verified answers with source page numbers, making your personal data more accessible and intelligent than ever before. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into browsing top movies and TV shows by category # Deep dive into browsing top movies and TV shows by category Tired of endlessly scrolling through streaming services? These new shortcuts revolutionize how you find movies and TV shows by offering categorized browsing and instant access. They solve the common dilemma of content discovery, providing a seamless path from choosing a genre to watching your next favorite title. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new Introducing two powerful shortcuts: **Browse Top Movies By Category** and **Browse Top TV Shows By Category**. These shortcuts interface with a comprehensive movie database API to bring you trending content. You can now select a genre and view a curated list of popular movies or TV shows, each complete with its title, expected release date, and a brief overview. Upon selecting a specific title, the shortcut intelligently identifies available streaming services and provides a direct link. This link, along with the movie or show's poster, is automatically saved in a dedicated Apple Note for easy access and organization. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/410378701edeb05bf1bbf2b393587f4d9b8063fd287a49a330f9f72cda451482_c419d547.jpg) ## How to use this feature Getting started with content discovery is simple and intuitive: 1. To find movies, run the **Browse Top Movies By Category** shortcut. For TV shows, run **Browse Top TV Shows By Category**. 2. From the list of genres, select your preferred category (e.g., **Action**, **Drama**, **Sci-Fi & Fantasy**). 3. A list of popular titles within your chosen genre will be presented, showing their title, release year, and a concise overview. You can scroll through this list to explore options. 4. Tap on a movie or TV show title that interests you. The shortcut will then identify where it's available to stream. 5. Select your desired streaming service from the presented options (e.g., **Apple TV**, **Netflix**). 6. The shortcut will automatically create an Apple Note containing the title, streaming service, a direct streaming link, and the content's poster art. 7. Tap the provided link within the Apple Note to launch the movie or TV show directly in its corresponding streaming application, ready for you to watch. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e2ac5b6394454e6d95d6929469ca2ae75d748b41f3023f247c370e77015070cb_12d5541b.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ff2e03d90524bf5c03c61add2d93bd391e3095158fa9e90052d3c1f629cc02e3_9d102d7a.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Effortless Content Discovery:** Quickly browse popular movies and TV shows filtered by various genres, making it easy to find something new and exciting. - **Direct Streaming Access:** Get instant, direct links to where you can stream your chosen content on services like Netflix or Apple TV, reducing friction from discovery to playback. - **Personalized Watchlist:** Automatically organize selected titles, their streaming links, and poster art within Apple Notes, creating a dynamic and easily accessible personal watchlist. - **Detailed Overviews:** Each listing includes essential information such as the title, release year, and a brief synopsis, helping you make informed viewing decisions quickly. - **Time-Saving:** Eliminate the time-consuming process of manually searching across multiple platforms and apps to find available content. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best experience, ensure that you have the relevant streaming applications (e.g., Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video) installed on your device. The 'popular' listings are regularly updated, so revisit the shortcuts often to see the latest trending movies and TV shows. Consider creating a dedicated folder in Apple Notes, such as 'My Watchlist,' to keep all your shortcut-generated movie and TV show notes neatly organized. This will prevent your main Notes list from becoming cluttered and allow for quick retrieval of your saved content. ## Summary The new 'Browse Top Movies By Category' and 'Browse Top TV Shows By Category' shortcuts fundamentally enhance your entertainment experience. They streamline the process of finding new content by combining powerful database access with intelligent streaming integration and efficient organization within Apple Notes. This feature provides significant value by turning a potentially frustrating search into an enjoyable and seamless discovery process, ensuring you spend less time searching and more time watching. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into getting the FIFA 2026 World Cup schedule # Deep dive into getting the FIFA 2026 World Cup schedule The FIFA 2026 World Cup is a highly anticipated event, and staying on top of the schedule can be a challenge. This new shortcut helps you do just that by providing quick access to the tournament's upcoming match schedule. It leverages an API to fetch the latest information, ensuring you're always informed about when and where the next games will be played. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This shortcut was created based on a community request, specifically for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup. It utilizes an API to dynamically retrieve schedule data. When run, it tells you if there are any games scheduled for today or the next five days, and if not, it identifies the first upcoming scheduled game. Currently, it indicates the stadium and match group. As the tournament progresses and teams are assigned to groups, the shortcut will be updated to display specific team matchups. ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app on your iPhone or iPad. 2. Locate and tap the **FIFA 2026 Schedule** shortcut. 3. The shortcut will display a message indicating if there are games today or in the next five days. 4. If no games are imminent, it will show details for the first upcoming scheduled game, including the stadium and match group. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1df3b199b1a556163f6a46421e6976d727899f5becc0aee5cb518d60d1f5ecff_5c2317cc.jpg) You can also run this shortcut from your Mac via the Shortcuts app, making it convenient to check the schedule across all your Apple devices. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/34694f3899fa428e4845c8f3db602ba9a4b9bc3f7099ee89262a1811aa305171_127ffc5f.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Schedule Access**: Get current or upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup game details with a single tap or click. - **Location Information**: The shortcut provides the stadium location for scheduled matches. - **Future-Proof**: The shortcut is designed to be updated as official team groupings and specific match details for FIFA 2026 become available, showing who is playing and where. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature Download the shortcut now to have it ready for the FIFA 2026 World Cup. Keep your Shortcuts app updated to receive the latest versions of this shortcut, which will include more detailed team information as it is released. Consider adding this shortcut to your device's home screen for quick access, especially as the tournament approaches. ## Summary The FIFA 2026 World Cup schedule shortcut provides football enthusiasts with an easy way to stay informed about the upcoming tournament. By fetching real-time data from an API, it ensures you have the most up-to-date match information right at your fingertips. Download it now to prepare for the global football spectacle! ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into sending a fast 'Check In' message # Deep dive into sending a fast 'Check In' message The 'Check In' feature, introduced in iOS 17, is a powerful safety tool allowing you to automatically notify friends or family when you arrive at a destination or complete an activity. This new shortcut streamlines the entire process, letting you initiate a Check In message to a pre-selected contact with a single tap, saving precious time and providing immediate peace of mind. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new Traditionally, sending a Check In involves navigating through the **Messages** app, selecting a contact, tapping the **+** icon, scrolling to find 'Check In', and then configuring its settings. This shortcut bypasses these multiple steps, allowing you to instantly send a Check In to a designated contact without any manual confirmation. This is especially valuable in situations where quick communication is essential. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d90a34ae45520bc2124912728fd1880244efa1bd487f4b0ed248028989a8c7c5_d41ce4e6.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. First, you'll need to set the recipient for the Check In shortcut. Open the **Shortcuts** app, tap on the 'Send Fast Check In' shortcut, and edit the 'Send a Check In to' action to select your desired contact. 2. To run the shortcut, simply tap on its tile in the **Shortcuts** app. It will automatically open **Messages** and send the Check In. 3. Alternatively, for even faster access, you can add the shortcut to your **Control Center**. Swipe down from the top-right of your screen, tap the 'Send Fast Check In' tile, and it will perform the action immediately. 4. The Check In message will be sent, and you'll see a timer or destination tracking confirmation in your conversation. You can tap on this to adjust the Check In's duration (**Timer**), set a specific arrival location (**Destination**), or link it to an ongoing workout (**Workout**). 5. The recipient will be notified of your progress and receive updates on your location, device battery, and cellular connectivity until you mark the Check In as complete or arrive at your destination. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/2fb087e9a493aae541e07e259ce462ec592a8cd3bedf0177a3f2425c38675c12_4e43a2bc.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **One-Tap Activation:** Quickly send a Check In without navigating through multiple menus. - **Pre-Configured Recipient:** Set your preferred contact once for consistent use. - **Dynamic Options:** Supports native Check In features like destination, timer, and workout tracking. - **Safety Monitoring:** Shares your location, battery level, and cellular service status with your contact. - **Arrival/Completion Notifications:** Automatically notifies your contact when you arrive or finish your activity. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For rapid deployment, consider adding this shortcut to your **Control Center** or assigning it to a Back Tap gesture. This makes it incredibly convenient for situations like getting into an Uber/Lyft, starting a late-night jog, or traveling alone. Regularly review your **Messages** settings for 'Check In' to ensure your data sharing preferences (Full or Limited) are accurate for maximum safety and privacy. ## Summary This 'Send Fast Check In' shortcut transforms a multi-step safety feature into an effortless, single-tap action. By enhancing the accessibility of Apple's Check In functionality, it significantly improves user convenience and provides an added layer of security for you and your loved ones. Automate your safety notifications and enjoy greater peace of mind with this practical shortcut. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating a grocery list from a text message # Deep dive into creating a grocery list from a text message Never forget an item again when your family texts you a list of groceries. This new shortcut leverages Apple Intelligence to transform a simple text message into an organized grocery list within the Reminders app. It automatically extracts items from a screenshot of your text message, saving you valuable time and ensuring accuracy. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This innovative shortcut introduces the ability to parse a screenshot of a text message for grocery items. Using the powerful Cloud model (Apple Intelligence), it identifies and extracts individual grocery items from unstructured text. These items are then automatically added to your **Groceries** list in the Reminders app, even categorizing them for you where applicable. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3dbd476a109c911910cd043c49d565419767cb8b3361b906e73a25504466c9b2_476c1305.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. When you receive a text message containing grocery items, ensure it's visible on your screen. 2. Swipe down to open **Control Center**. 3. Tap the **Text To Grocery List** shortcut icon. The shortcut will automatically hide Control Center, take a screenshot of your current screen, and process the text within it. 4. The Reminders app will open, and your extracted grocery items will be added to your **Groceries** list, often categorized into sections like 'Dairy, Eggs & Cheese' or 'Meat'. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3b9dcd8341d6fe1a5ffa93cd3c3cf7d7025d736365de1fc28bc157b618f65089_eef07048.jpg) ## Key capabilities - Automated text extraction from screenshots for quick list generation. - Seamless integration with the Reminders app, adding items directly to your grocery list. - Intelligent categorization of grocery items (e.g., 'Eggs' under 'Dairy, Eggs & Cheese'), simplifying your shopping experience. - Rapid access and execution directly from your device's **Control Center**. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For optimal performance, ensure the text message containing your grocery list is clearly visible on the screen when you activate the shortcut. If you frequently receive grocery lists via text, consider keeping your Reminders app's dedicated **Groceries** list empty before running the shortcut for a cleaner import. This shortcut is designed to work best when added to your **Control Center** for instant access. ## Summary The new 'Grocery List from a Text Message' shortcut revolutionizes how you manage household shopping lists. By leveraging Apple Intelligence, it converts casual text messages into actionable, organized grocery lists in Reminders with minimal effort. This feature streamlines your routine, reduces manual data entry, and helps ensure you never miss an item when heading to the store. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating a 'People Met' database # Deep dive into creating a 'People Met' database The 'People Met' database shortcut allows you to easily log details about new acquaintances, including their name, location, and key conversation points. This helps you maintain a personal record of professional and social interactions, making it easier to recall important context for future engagements or networking opportunities. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This feature provides a structured way to capture information about people you meet. It automatically logs the current date and your precise location, and then prompts you for details such as their name, topics of discussion, whether they have pets, and if they have kids (including their names and ages). All this information is then appended to a dedicated Apple Note, creating a chronological and context-rich database of your connections. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/706e9b9196ead7d0364388e5f5c656752a92a7d776155e3fbb33369f9c080771_a3a5d57a.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **People Met Database** shortcut from your Shortcuts app. 2. The shortcut will ask a series of questions: **Who did you meet?**, **What did you talk about?**, **Did they have pets?**, and **Do they have kids?**. 3. If they have kids, it will ask for their **Names and ages of kids?**. 4. Once all questions are answered, the information, including your current date and full address, will be automatically saved to an Apple Note titled 'New People Met'. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ad06c3be528adb5055da5e0ca580331ab439b451454aa226b1e0123c9eae43a4_67f4f571.jpg) The note 'New People Met' is automatically created if it doesn't exist, and new entries are appended to it. You don't need to manually create or manage the note yourself. ## Key capabilities - **Contextual Logging:** Records detailed information about interactions, beyond just a name and number. - **Automatic Date and Location:** Captures when and where you met someone without manual input, based on your device's location services. - **Personalized Database:** Builds a continuously updated record of your contacts in an easy-to-access Apple Note. - **Searchable with AI:** Can be integrated with other Apple Intelligence shortcuts to search your 'People Met' database based on specific criteria (e.g., "who did I talk about subscribing to YouTube?"). ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature This shortcut is particularly useful for networking events, business trips, or any social gathering where you meet many new people. Capturing details immediately after an interaction ensures accuracy and prevents forgetting important information. For even more power, consider building an additional shortcut that uses Apple Intelligence to query your 'New People Met' note for specific information, allowing you to quickly retrieve context before follow-up conversations. ## Summary The 'People Met' database shortcut transforms casual interactions into structured, retrievable data within your Apple Notes. By streamlining the process of logging new contacts and key conversation points, it provides a powerful personal CRM tool that enhances your ability to connect and follow up effectively. This feature ensures you never lose track of valuable networking details. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into importing audio files into Apple Music on Mac # Deep dive into importing audio files into Apple Music on Mac The new "Import Audio Files into Music" Shortcut on Mac provides a streamlined way to add your audio collection directly to your Apple Music library. This feature significantly simplifies the process of integrating external audio files, whether they are podcasts, audiobooks, or custom recordings, into your personal music collection. It eliminates the need for manual dragging and dropping or using cumbersome menus, saving you time and effort. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a dedicated Shortcuts action on macOS that allows for direct import of audio files into the Apple Music application. Previously, users often had to manually drag files into the Music app, which could be time-consuming, especially for multiple files or different formats. The new action supports various audio file types and offers an optional re-encoding feature, letting you convert files to preferred formats like MP3, AAC, AIFF, Lossless, or WAV during the import process. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/cd4949bcd0879c13101e44a61656cc23376b25cf8942981346a0d52b3e929306_3a6eaaca.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the Shortcuts app on your Mac. 2. Locate and run the "Import Audio Files into Music" shortcut. You can add this to your Quick Actions or use the Share Sheet for quick access. 3. When prompted, select the audio files you wish to import from your Finder. 4. In the shortcut action details, you can expand the "Import" action to reveal a "Re-encode" option. Toggle this on if you wish to convert the audio format. 5. If re-encoding, select your desired output format from the available options (e.g., MP3, AAC, Lossless). 6. Confirm the import, and the selected audio files will be added to your Apple Music library. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5137d5dab3dfe068a79561838c1862aeb866e056ee2f836fc8c6257fe719921c_a72390b4.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Batch Import:** Add multiple audio files to Apple Music simultaneously, streamlining library management. - **Format Conversion:** Convert audio files to various popular formats (MP3, AAC, AIFF, Lossless, WAV) directly during import. - **Seamless Integration:** Directly add files from Finder or the Share Sheet into your Apple Music library without extra steps. - **Customizable Workflow:** Integrate this action into more complex Shortcuts automations for advanced media management. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For frequently used imports, consider creating a dedicated folder in Finder where you temporarily drop audio files, and then set up a Folder Action automation that automatically runs this Shortcut whenever new files are added. This ensures a truly hands-off approach to updating your music library. Also, experiment with different encoding options to find the best balance between file size and audio quality for your specific needs. ## Summary The "Import Audio Files into Music" Shortcut on Mac is a powerful addition for anyone managing a digital audio collection. It simplifies the process of bringing external audio into Apple Music, offering flexible format conversion options and the potential for deep integration into your custom automation workflows. This feature makes curating your personal audio library more efficient and convenient than ever before. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into renaming files by their creation date # Deep dive into renaming files by their creation date The new "Rename File as Date Created" shortcut offers a seamless way to organize your digital assets. This feature automatically renames selected files based on their creation date, establishing a consistent naming convention. It eliminates manual renaming efforts, making it easier to sort and locate your documents, photos, or any other files. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This shortcut introduces a direct method to standardize file names by leveraging their inherent creation date metadata. It automatically converts original file names into a `YYYY-MM-DD` format, ensuring uniformity across your chosen files. You can use this shortcut as a standalone tool, selecting files manually, or integrate it into a **Folder Automation** on macOS for completely hands-free organization as new files are added. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3cc736c400e6c3f0dba5bd56dc59f0dc7830d838264d688292958510a2ee49cc_8dbb4f51.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app on your device. 2. Locate and run the **Rename File as Date Created** shortcut. 3. Select the file(s) you wish to rename from the file picker. 4. The shortcut will automatically rename the file(s) to a format like `2025-11-28`. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b031156a6fe6587f5c0a28713c3a568133126cfac91ef1c088459b52c509e4b2_b4583c35.jpg) 5. (Optional for macOS) To automate, navigate to the **Automation** tab in the Shortcuts app on your Mac. 6. Click the **+** button to add a new automation and choose **Folder** as the trigger. 7. Select the folder you want to monitor, and ensure **When Any Item Is Added** is selected. 8. In the actions, search for and select the **Rename File as Date Created** shortcut. 9. New files added to the specified folder will now be automatically renamed. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0c91b56569b9856bde02ec5b30bc8f77fccd308cb565acaccaecbf47cb237443_453ef86c.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Batch Renaming:** Efficiently rename multiple files at once, saving significant time for large collections. - **Consistent Naming:** Enforce a uniform `YYYY-MM-DD` naming structure for easy chronological sorting. - **Automated Organization:** Set up folder automations (on macOS) to automatically rename new files as they are added, maintaining an organized system effortlessly. - **Direct File Access:** Run the shortcut directly and select files from any accessible location on your device or iCloud Drive. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For frequently updated project folders, consider setting up a dedicated Folder Automation on your Mac to ensure all incoming files are instantly renamed by their creation date. This is particularly useful for managing digital photos, scanned documents, or project assets where chronological order is crucial. Always back up important files before performing any bulk renaming operations. ## Summary The "Rename File as Date Created" shortcut simplifies file management by automating the renaming process using a file's inherent creation date. This powerful tool ensures that your digital library maintains a clean, consistent, and chronologically ordered structure, drastically improving your ability to manage and retrieve files efficiently. Embrace this shortcut to bring order and efficiency to your daily file handling. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into renaming files with AI # Deep dive into renaming files with AI This exciting new feature leverages Apple Intelligence to intelligently rename your files based on their content. Instead of manually sifting through content or trying to decipher cryptic filenames, you can now let AI suggest relevant and descriptive titles, streamlining your file organization and making your digital life more efficient. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The new 'Rename Files with AI' shortcut introduces the power of Apple Intelligence's Private Cloud Compute model to file management. This means the AI can now analyze the actual content of your files (text, images, etc.) to generate accurate and concise titles. You also have the option to provide additional context, guiding the AI to generate even more precise filenames, making it a highly adaptable tool for various file types and personal naming conventions. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/adfade5b61a2b9453fcf771027864a5c4c8bd0f85e0e7f9abd9ada19aafbc32d_39d330de.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Run the 'Rename Files with AI' shortcut from your Shortcuts app. 2. When prompted, select the file or multiple files you wish to rename. You can browse your device or iCloud Drive. 3. The shortcut will ask, 'Do you want to add context?'. Select **Yes** to provide additional keywords or phrases, or **No** to let the AI rename based purely on the file's content. 4. Apple Intelligence will then analyze the file(s) and suggest new, descriptive filenames. It will rename the file(s) automatically. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6ae01fa9eb6f4c59230e4c17c92012a233cd0c1d92721314f58e32e8728092d4_0dc4e1f3.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Contextual renaming:** Provide additional input to guide the AI for highly specific naming. For example, if it's a photo of a dog, you can add 'family pet' as context. - **Content-based analysis:** The AI delves into the file's contents to understand its subject matter, rather than just relying on existing metadata or basic file types. This works for various files, including documents, images, and more. - **Batch renaming:** Select multiple files at once, and the AI will process and rename them all, saving significant time for large collections. - **Privacy-focused:** Utilizing Apple Intelligence's Private Cloud Compute model, your file content remains private and is not sent to external servers for analysis. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results with image files, ensure the image contains clear subjects or text that the AI can interpret. For text documents, the more coherent and descriptive the content, the better the AI can infer a suitable filename. Experiment with providing context even for simple files; a little guidance can often lead to a perfectly tailored name. If you're renaming a series of related files, try processing them together to see how the AI handles the batch, potentially finding common themes. ## Summary The 'Rename Files with AI' shortcut marks a significant leap in intelligent file management, offering a powerful way to organize your digital assets effortlessly. By leveraging Apple Intelligence to understand file content, it eliminates the tedious manual task of naming files, providing descriptive and relevant titles. This feature not only saves time but also enhances accessibility and discoverability across your personal and professional documents. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into using a quick file converter # Deep dive into using a quick file converter The new Quick File Converter shortcut offers a streamlined way to convert various file types directly on your device. This feature eliminates the need for multiple specialized apps or online tools, simplifying your digital workflow. Users can now effortlessly transform PDFs, JPGs, and PNGs with just a few taps, enhancing productivity and convenience. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This release introduces a versatile file converter integrated into your Shortcuts app. You can now select files from various sources and convert them into common formats like PDF, JPG, or PNG. The shortcut guides you through the conversion process, asking for your preferred output format and allowing you to choose where to save the new file. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/738ae40c909fdf39f46c21884cac43577f40c80c2a59a29a13dfef5437361a42_220d1e30.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Shortcuts** app and tap the **File Converter** shortcut. 2. You will be prompted to select the file(s) you wish to convert. Browse your files and tap **Open**. 3. A menu will appear asking 'What would you like to convert to?'. Choose your desired output format: **PDF**, **JPG**, or **PNG**. 4. The shortcut will then process the conversion. Once complete, it will ask 'Where to save'. You can choose a specific folder or location on your device. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/736b993684ded62cc86bbf8c55b292891ef1ca278d67a59f98adae329613ce1e_bdf1b33a.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Multi-format conversion:** Convert files to and from PDF, JPG, and PNG formats. - **Direct file selection:** Easily pick files from your device storage or cloud services. - **Custom save locations:** Choose exactly where your converted files are stored. - **Integrated workflow:** Access the converter directly from your Shortcuts library for quick use. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For frequently used save locations, you can turn off the 'Ask Where to Save' option within the shortcut's settings and pre-select a default folder for quicker conversions. This is ideal for scenarios where you're always converting to a specific destination, like a 'Converted Files' folder on your desktop or in iCloud Drive. ## Summary The Quick File Converter shortcut offers a powerful yet simple solution for common file conversion needs. Its intuitive interface and direct integration with your device's file system make it an indispensable tool for managing documents and images. Enjoy streamlined workflows and enhanced control over your digital content. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into moving tagged Apple Notes to a folder # Deep dive into moving tagged Apple Notes to a folder The new "Move Notes Tag to Folder" shortcut streamlines your Apple Notes organization by automating the transfer of tagged notes into specific folders. This eliminates tedious manual sorting, especially when you have a large collection of notes that you want to structure more efficiently. It’s perfect for those who want to transition from a tag-heavy system to a more organized folder-based approach. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This shortcut introduces a focused automation for Apple Notes. Previously, managing notes between tags and folders required multiple manual steps. Now, you can simply specify a tag, and the shortcut will identify all notes containing that tag and move them to a designated folder. A key enhancement is the ability for the shortcut to automatically create the target folder if it doesn't already exist, ensuring a seamless organizational flow. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4644b0d4cb4c16b203e094018cb5e863146a66125e326e648e5722902f21c652_b3250490.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Run the **Move Notes Tag to Folder** shortcut from your Shortcuts library. 2. You will be prompted to enter the exact tag (e.g., "work", "ideas") of the notes you wish to move. Ensure the tag name is accurate. 3. Next, you'll be asked to input the name of the folder where these notes should be moved. For optimal organization, consider using a folder name identical to your tag. 4. The shortcut will then find all Apple Notes containing the specified tag and relocate them to the designated folder. If the folder doesn't exist, the shortcut will create it for you before moving the notes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/54bbb1fed2eae7a4d7a0ef124daa682b5283d955d8bb6b21c8a55ba90b1ef2df_59f22cd4.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Effortless Note Relocation:** Automatically move multiple tagged notes to a specific folder in one go. - **Automatic Folder Creation:** If the target folder doesn't exist, the shortcut creates it for you, saving an extra step. - **Enhanced Organization:** Maintain a clean and structured Apple Notes environment by grouping related notes more effectively. - **Time-Saving Automation:** Drastically reduce the time spent on manual note sorting and management. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To ensure accuracy, always double-check the spelling of your tags when prompted by the shortcut. Consider running this shortcut periodically as part of your digital hygiene routine to keep your Apple Notes tidy. If you're consolidating notes, you can choose to delete the tag from the notes after moving them to prevent duplication in your organizational scheme. ## Summary The "Move Notes Tag to Folder" shortcut is a powerful addition for Apple Notes users seeking better organization. By automating the process of moving tagged notes into relevant folders, it not only saves valuable time but also fosters a more structured and manageable personal information system. This feature empowers you to maintain a pristine digital workspace with minimal effort. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating a frost alert with a reminder # Deep dive into creating a frost alert with a reminder The new 'Frost alert + reminder' shortcut helps you stay prepared for cold weather. It automatically checks hourly forecasts for your location and notifies you if temperatures are expected to drop below a specified threshold, prompting you to take action like covering your car's windshield. This ensures your vehicle is protected and gives you peace of mind during chilly nights. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This shortcut leverages Apple Intelligence (ChatGPT through the 'Use Cloud Model' action) and your current location to proactively monitor weather conditions. It checks the hourly forecast from **10:00 PM to 7:00 AM** and, if the temperature drops below **1 degree Celsius** (you can customize this), it triggers a notification and adds a reminder to your **Reminders** app. The shortcut is designed to simplify your routine and prevent potential issues from unexpected frost. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7d67406aa5aaae1f1602464c1884ae3b18554b1e38658039d47512c39a37219e_2d2a99db.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Run the 'Frost alert + reminder' shortcut from your **Shortcuts** app. 2. The shortcut will automatically get the hourly forecast for your **current location**. You can also tap **Current Location** and search for a different city if you're planning a trip or want to monitor another area. 3. The system will then use Apple Intelligence to analyze the forecast between **10:00 PM and 7:00 AM**. (You can customize this time range in the shortcut's 'Use ChatGPT' prompt). 4. If the forecast indicates a temperature drop below **1 degree Celsius** (adjustable in the prompt), you will receive a notification: 'Remember to cover car windshield'. 5. Concurrently, a new reminder will be added to your **Reminders** inbox, set for **7:00 PM today** (also customizable within the shortcut actions). ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ea1269dba981c12f3996fc30365c5e35dddbf8ebfe95ac9a2f74457e1abe874a_eae6fa04.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automated Temperature Monitoring:** Proactively checks hourly weather forecasts without manual input. - **Location-Aware Alerts:** Functions based on your current location or any specified city. - **Intelligent Forecasting:** Utilizes Apple Intelligence for accurate temperature drop prediction. - **Integrated Reminders:** Automatically adds a reminder to your **Reminders** app for timely action. - **Customizable Thresholds:** Easily adjust the temperature trigger and reminder time to suit your needs. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To ensure you always receive timely frost alerts, consider setting up a personal automation to run this shortcut daily, perhaps in the late afternoon or early evening. This way, you won't forget to check the forecast. Also, review the prompt in the 'Use ChatGPT' action to fine-tune the temperature threshold (e.g., switch to Fahrenheit) and the notification/reminder times to best fit your local climate and personal schedule. ## Summary The 'Frost alert + reminder' shortcut is a smart addition to your daily toolkit, leveraging advanced AI to protect your vehicle from unexpected frost. By providing automated, location-aware alerts and reminders, it eliminates manual weather checks and ensures you're always one step ahead of the cold. This simple yet powerful automation offers convenience and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your day without worrying about frost damage. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into automatically sending holiday text messages # Deep dive into automatically sending holiday text messages The holiday season often means sending well wishes to many people. This new shortcut automates the process of sending personalized holiday text messages to a predefined group of contacts. It saves you time and ensures your festive greetings reach everyone on your list effortlessly. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new This feature introduces a streamlined way to send holiday texts by leveraging your existing contact groups. Instead of manually selecting each contact or copying and pasting messages, you can now designate a specific contact group, and the shortcut will send a pre-written holiday message to each member automatically. It eliminates the need for individual confirmation, making bulk messaging quick and seamless. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/fc42fad0d09823dcaaad83be30dfa2d44216a92c99f1778adcc69d3cea37c86c_2dca1254.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open your **Contacts** app and tap the back button (top left) to view your Lists. 2. Tap **Add List** and create a new list, for example, name it 'Holidays'. 3. Add all the contacts you wish to send holiday texts to within this new list. 4. Open the **Shortcuts** app and locate the 'Auto Holiday Text' shortcut. 5. In the 'Find Contacts where' action, ensure 'Group is' is set to your newly created contact group (e.g., 'Holidays'). 6. In the 'Send Happy Holidays to' action, customize your holiday message as desired. 7. Expand this action and toggle off **Show Compose Sheet** to send messages automatically without confirmation. 8. Run the 'Auto Holiday Text' shortcut to send your personalized messages. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1c75f2a8d5405e8179ae48030031ab319dfaf60cb98058a8b78f24c74a93dba1_2b070bab.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Group-based messaging:** Target specific contact lists for holiday greetings. - **Customizable messages:** Tailor your holiday message within the shortcut. - **Automatic sending:** Messages are sent automatically without requiring individual taps, if configured. - **Time-saving:** Significantly reduces the effort involved in sending multiple holiday texts. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature Before using the shortcut with a large group, test it with a smaller list of contacts (or even just yourself) to ensure the message and delivery work as expected. Remember that if **Show Compose Sheet** is toggled on, you will have to manually confirm each message, which can be useful for reviewing messages before sending them to a very large group. For international contacts, ensure their phone numbers include the correct country code in your contacts for successful delivery. ## Summary The 'Auto Send Holiday Text' shortcut is a thoughtful addition for effortlessly connecting with friends and family during special occasions. By automating holiday greetings, you can maintain personal connections without the stress of manual messaging. This feature truly embodies the spirit of convenience that Apple Intelligence brings to your iPhone workflows. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## What's New: 15 Hidden Apple Continuity Features ### Overview: 15 hidden continuity features in the Apple ecosystem # Overview: 15 hidden continuity features in the Apple ecosystem

This release highlights numerous hidden Continuity features that enhance how your Apple devices work together. From signing documents to accelerating file transfers, these updates streamline workflows across your iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV. Here’s an overview of the new capabilities designed to make your ecosystem experience more seamless. ## Sign Documents from Any Device You can now sign a PDF on your Mac by using your iPhone or iPad to draw the signature. When you select the signature tool in **Markup** on your Mac, you can choose your nearby device to capture your signature, which then appears instantly on the document. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/222d201f7c5e4b71c243672bb4b1db60b61cd6cc8fca09d1c19fc23182c6f238_4b9ecb82.jpg) ## Insert Sketches into Notes Add a personal touch to your notes by inserting a sketch directly from your iPhone or iPad. While in the Notes app on your Mac, go to **File > Insert from iPhone or iPad** and select **Add Sketch** to draw on your mobile device and have it appear in your note. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/386d4325c522afc3d8840d110eae541bb9f8e265ed4a2332bb7d463e74cd7815_e7c2a4f0.jpg) ## Accelerate AirDrop with a Wired Connection For large file transfers, you can now speed up AirDrop by connecting two Apple devices with a compatible cable. The system automatically prioritizes the wired connection for faster speeds, and a "Using Wired Connection" message will appear in the AirDrop interface to confirm. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a67af3fcef3381e863ede370ccf591ecd0236be215343fdf377f08d45b6df073_520282f5.jpg) ## Sync Text Snippets Across All Devices Save time by creating text snippets that automatically expand into longer phrases, email addresses, or URLs. These shortcuts, managed under **Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement**, now sync seamlessly across your iPhone, iPad, and Mac, so your custom abbreviations are always available. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9d046d2e2aa8bed9e8feae07a2c03f57f16db753a376aaa9d8aeef9c466c30af_84956f71.jpg) ## Use Your Mac as an AirPlay Receiver Your Mac can now function as an AirPlay destination, similar to an Apple TV. Enable **AirPlay Receiver** in **System Settings > General > AirDrop & Handoff** to stream video and audio content directly from your iPhone or iPad to your Mac's display. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5d39299816205e4b64135b461dd63fe368c12a3dbc11dbd477c467c806ae3686_1c975022.jpg) ## Turn Off Autoplay Video Previews You now have more control over your viewing experience on Apple TV, iPhone, and iPad. To disable distracting video previews that play automatically, navigate to **Settings > Accessibility > Motion** and turn off the **Auto-Play Video Previews** toggle. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0502bbe4a2c4f99091fcbf637d190784a9f2c9a24237f9eed0acd7003a0250af_24045d67.jpg) ## Use iPhone as an Apple TV Camera Elevate your video calls by using your iPhone or iPad as a high-quality camera for FaceTime on your Apple TV. Simply open the FaceTime app on your Apple TV, and it will automatically prompt you to connect to a nearby device for a seamless Continuity Camera experience. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/78577cf523ac9a8e6748eb1656cab92bf08ef7e88faccdf05bc3073eebd6ab3b_66638967.jpg) ## Enhance the Apple TV Remote on iPhone If you prefer tactile controls, you can now add physical-style directional buttons to the Apple TV Remote interface on your iPhone. This feature can be enabled in **Settings > Accessibility > Apple TV Remote** by turning on the **Directional Buttons** option. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1fbd4ca85d2ddacc758193115d89a510004685283cd7f9978902f323680de3dd_30be1293.jpg) ## Access Built-in White Noise Sounds Focus or relax with built-in background sounds like rain, ocean, or white noise on any of your Apple devices. Add the **Hearing** control to your Control Center, then tap the ear icon to access and play your preferred ambient sound. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4433247a5c10f8b54d50ff80bf21a847f18affcf596c26da8fa152757b1f01d3_353a8c8b.jpg) ## Use Your iPhone as a Wireless Mac Microphone Capture high-quality audio on your Mac by using your iPhone's microphone. In any audio recording application like QuickTime Player, simply select your iPhone from the list of available microphone inputs to start recording wirelessly. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6f745362f77b27c7d0ec113df559437b255196eff9f86f1dd032d3ef2c1ca568_1378ccfd.jpg) ## Customize Advanced AirPods Settings Discover hidden AirPods settings by navigating to **Settings > Accessibility > AirPods**. Here, you can enable **Noise Cancellation with One AirPod**, adjust press speed and duration, and manage other audio features for a more personalized listening experience. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/af7684de19507127c136f614bc4806cc30959d60f32afe380cdefb4dfbf26d7f_e8bec63b.jpg) ## Control Your Apple Watch from Your iPhone You can now mirror your Apple Watch screen directly onto your iPhone and control it from there. Enable **Apple Watch Mirroring** in **Accessibility** settings to interact with your watch apps, change faces, and access controls on a larger screen. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9768650a27c4c8f89fb5496bae21a4aeed1f0965f5ec6adf1cab79e05ba13160_a4d67b93.jpg) ## Use Universal Clipboard for Images Universal Clipboard now seamlessly handles images, including those from a web browser. You can copy an image on your iPhone or iPad and instantly paste it into an application on your Mac without needing to save the file first. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/72730ab1ed0afccfa3f2f59af7980db0cf9745dc83ae71576f66767180a52099_bd8cb721.jpg) ## Remove Image Backgrounds in Finder Quickly remove the background from any image directly within the Finder on your Mac. Simply right-click an image file, navigate to **Quick Actions**, and select **Remove Background** to create a new PNG file with a transparent background. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/de24b24af1c84de0338edb2434f29baaddaa52f2cc6fb8846c724392f3a01f1a_e4f7d275.jpg) ## Drag and Drop Between Mac and iPad With Universal Control, you can now drag and drop images and other content directly from your Mac to your iPad. For example, you can drag an image from a website open on your Mac and drop it into a podcast editing app on your iPad for a fluid, multi-device workflow. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/64f3d488475b7fcfdf415ef8811da942b7f081953c56eecee9bf3ec0f3b63bae_c9729250.jpg) ## Summary This collection of Continuity features reinforces the power of the Apple ecosystem by making cross-device interactions more intuitive and efficient. From powerful productivity boosts like Universal Control and wired AirDrop to convenient tweaks for your Apple TV and AirPods, these updates help you get more done with less effort. Explore these hidden gems to unlock the full potential of your devices working in harmony. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into signing PDFs and inserting sketches from iPhone/iPad # Deep dive into signing PDFs and inserting sketches from iPhone/iPad

Streamline your document workflows by leveraging the unique capabilities of your Apple devices together. With Continuity, you can now use your iPhone or iPad's touchscreen or Apple Pencil to sign documents or add hand-drawn sketches directly into files on your Mac. This feature eliminates the need to awkwardly draw with a trackpad or print documents just to sign them, making digital signatures and creative additions seamless. ## What's new This feature enhances the built-in **Markup** tools in macOS and applications like Notes. When you need to add a signature to a PDF or a sketch to a note on your Mac, you can now initiate a live connection to a nearby iPhone or iPad. Your mobile device will instantly transform into an input pad, allowing you to draw with your finger or Apple Pencil, with the result appearing in real-time on your Mac. ## How to use this feature **To sign a PDF on your Mac using your iPhone or iPad:** 1. Open the PDF document on your Mac in Preview. 2. Click the **Show Markup Toolbar** button. 3. Click the **Sign** icon and select **Create Signature**. 4. In the pop-up window, select the **iPhone or iPad** tab. 5. Choose your nearby device from the list. 6. Your device will present a signature screen. Sign with your finger or Apple Pencil and tap **Done**. 7. Your signature will appear on your Mac, ready to be placed in the document. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b184db49c27b102a846556399605f1998aca1c13a693444cd2be90176c53b3f7_69a29373.jpg) **To insert a sketch into a note on your Mac:** 1. Open the Notes app on your Mac and place your cursor where you want the sketch. 2. Go to the menu bar and click **File** > **Insert from iPhone or iPad**. 3. Select **Add Sketch** under the device you wish to use. 4. Draw on your device. When finished, tap the blue checkmark. 5. The sketch will be inserted directly into your note on the Mac. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4e0b7b8b339ea363ba6e1f052b698216fb263a22efabc5af3512398467e3dfd9_035e5ed2.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Real-time Input:** See your signature or sketch appear on your Mac screen as you draw it on your iPhone or iPad. - **Natural Drawing:** Use the precision of your finger on an iPhone or an Apple Pencil on an iPad for more accurate and natural-looking signatures and drawings. - **Seamless Integration:** This functionality is built directly into macOS and works with native apps like Preview and Notes without needing third-party software. - **Beyond Sketches:** The same menu allows you to use your iPhone/iPad to take a photo or scan a document and insert it directly into your Mac application. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For this feature to work, ensure your Mac and iPhone/iPad are nearby, have both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on, and are signed into the same Apple ID with two-factor authentication enabled. Once you save a signature, it will sync via iCloud and be available for quick use on all your devices without needing to redraw it each time. ## Summary Signing PDFs and inserting sketches with your iPhone or iPad is a powerful Continuity feature that transforms how you interact with documents on your Mac. It bridges the gap between your powerful desktop environment and your intuitive mobile devices, making workflows faster and more efficient. By leveraging the best of both worlds, you can sign contracts, annotate documents, and add personal touches to your notes with ease. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into using a wired connection for faster AirDrop # Deep dive into using a wired connection for faster AirDrop AirDrop is now smarter and faster for large file transfers. You can now dramatically speed up AirDrop transfers between your Apple devices by simply connecting them with a compatible cable. This feature solves the problem of slow wireless transfers for large files like 4K videos or extensive photo libraries, giving you the speed of a wired connection with the convenience of AirDrop. ## What's new AirDrop now automatically detects when a physical cable is connected between two devices during a transfer. When a cable is present, AirDrop intelligently switches from a wireless to a wired connection to accelerate the transfer speed. The **AirDrop** live activity notification on your screen will update to confirm it is "Using Wired Connection," so you know the speed boost is active. ## How to use this feature 1. Initiate an AirDrop transfer between two compatible Apple devices as you normally would. 2. While the wireless transfer is in progress, connect the two devices with a compatible USB-C or Lightning cable. 3. Observe the **AirDrop** notification on both devices. It will automatically change to show that it is now using a wired connection. 4. The transfer will complete at a much faster speed. No additional settings are required. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3656d178d08bbf8006bcdaebccc79443a49f9ac6adc940a782cd6860789083a1_476d5cc2.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Accelerated Transfers:** Perfect for quickly moving large files such as 4K videos, entire photo albums, or large project folders. - **Automatic Switching:** The system intelligently detects the cable and switches from wireless to wired mid-transfer without any user intervention. - **Increased Reliability:** Provides a stable connection for large transfers, especially in areas with poor Wi-Fi or Bluetooth signal. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To achieve the highest possible speeds, use a high-speed data cable, such as a Thunderbolt or USB 3 rated cable. This feature is especially powerful when used with devices like the iPhone 15 Pro, which supports faster data transfer speeds over its USB-C port. ## Summary Wired AirDrop combines the simplicity of AirDrop with the raw speed of a physical connection. By simply plugging in a cable during a transfer, you can save significant time when moving large files between your Apple devices. This makes it an invaluable tool for creative professionals, video editors, and anyone who needs to transfer large amounts of data quickly and reliably. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Syncing Text Snippets (Text Replacement) Across All Devices # Deep dive into Syncing Text Snippets (Text Replacement) Across All Devices Save time and reduce typos by creating text snippets for frequently used phrases, email addresses, or links. With the enhanced Text Replacement feature, you can define a shortcut once on any device, and it will automatically sync and become available across your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This ensures you can type faster and more consistently, no matter which device you're using. ## What's new Previously, text replacements might have needed to be set up individually on different devices. Now, any shortcut you create is automatically synced via your iCloud account. This means a shortcut for your email address created on your iPhone will be immediately available to use on your Mac or iPad without any extra setup. This seamless integration makes text replacement a powerful, ecosystem-wide productivity tool. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/aa9f32c1f1c8ebffd0d16b6edb448c5840f0040463b19f16a51b67e9823a765a_b2e28867.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Settings** app on your iPhone or iPad. 2. Navigate to **General** > **Keyboard**. 3. Tap on **Text Replacement** to view your existing snippets or add a new one. 4. Tap the plus icon (**+**) in the top-right corner to create a new snippet. 5. In the **Phrase** field, enter the full text you want to expand to. In the **Shortcut** field, type the short abbreviation you want to use. 6. Tap **Save**. Your new snippet is now ready to use on all your devices logged into the same Apple ID. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/37380721304451bc6e1a971be0daa11e6b2fe6fa3c3223e8ebd9bae1f448986a_0539ead5.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Effortless Syncing:** Create a shortcut on one device and use it everywhere. Your snippets for email addresses, common replies, or URLs are always at your fingertips. - **Boost Productivity:** Speed up data entry and messaging by replacing long phrases with short, easy-to-remember shortcuts. - **Ensure Consistency:** Maintain consistent wording and spelling for standard responses or technical terms across all your communications. - **Works System-Wide:** Use your text snippets in any app that uses the standard keyboard, including Messages, Mail, Notes, and third-party applications. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To avoid accidentally triggering a text replacement, consider using a prefix for your shortcuts, such as a semicolon or a double letter (e.g., ';sorry' or 'eemail'). This prevents the shortcut from expanding when you're just typing a regular word. ## Summary The automatic syncing of Text Replacement snippets transforms a helpful local feature into a powerful cross-device productivity tool. By setting up your most-used phrases and information once, you can streamline your typing and ensure accuracy across your entire Apple ecosystem. This small but mighty feature is a significant time-saver for anyone who frequently types the same information. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Universal Clipboard, Control, and Background Removal # Deep dive into Universal Clipboard, Control, and Background Removal Apple's Continuity features transform your individual devices into a single, powerful ecosystem. With Universal Clipboard, Universal Control, and integrated Background Removal, you can move content seamlessly between your Mac, iPad, and iPhone. These features eliminate the need for intermediate steps like AirDrop or saving files, allowing you to copy, paste, and drag-and-drop content as if you were working on one unified machine. ## What's new This update enhances how your devices work together by extending continuity to more complex content types. **Universal Clipboard** now seamlessly handles not just text, but full images and even subjects you've isolated from their backgrounds. **Universal Control** allows you to use a single keyboard and trackpad across your Mac and iPad, including the ability to drag and drop files directly between them. Additionally, a new **Remove Background** quick action in the macOS **Finder** lets you create transparent images instantly without opening a photo editor. ## How to use this feature 1. **Use Universal Clipboard:** Copy text or an image on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. On another nearby device, simply paste the content into any compatible app. The content is automatically available in the clipboard of your other devices. 2. **Lift a Subject from its Background:** In the **Photos** app on your iPhone or iPad, tap and hold on the main subject of an image. Once it animates and lifts from the background, you can select **Copy** to add it to your Universal Clipboard. 3. **Remove a Background on Mac:** In **Finder**, right-click on an image file. Navigate to **Quick Actions** and select **Remove Background**. A new PNG file with a transparent background will be created in the same folder. 4. **Use Universal Control:** With your Mac and iPad unlocked and nearby, move your Mac's cursor to the edge of the screen. The cursor will seamlessly move over to your iPad, allowing you to use your Mac's keyboard and trackpad to control it. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bc545eb0125523dcba94cd97df92fffcbc52e02caad07c4f9c0cec1a04c81040_a49a35f5.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Copy and Paste Across Devices:** Copy an address on your Mac and paste it directly into Maps on your iPhone. Copy an image from a website on your iPad and paste it into a document on your Mac. - **Drag and Drop Files:** Use your Mac's trackpad to drag a file from your Mac's desktop directly over to the Files app on your iPad. - **Create Transparent Images Instantly:** Quickly lift a subject from a photo on one device and paste it as a transparent layer into a presentation or message on another. - **Create a Unified Workspace:** Edit a podcast on your iPad while researching show notes in a web browser on your Mac, all with a single keyboard and mouse. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature Combine these features to supercharge your workflow. For example, while editing a podcast on your iPad using Universal Control, you can find an image in Safari on your Mac, drag it directly over to your iPad, and drop it into your editing app as chapter art. This turns a multi-step process of saving, transferring, and importing into a single, fluid drag-and-drop action. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ce0af50103b839b3ec608f2af5ac547e4eb1395c667a3a2201d4a4283ea1900a_e0bafbb2.jpg) ## Summary Universal Clipboard, Universal Control, and Background Removal are powerful Continuity features that erase the boundaries between your Apple devices. By enabling seamless transfer of text, images, and files, they allow you to work more efficiently and creatively. This integrated experience makes your collection of devices feel like a single, cohesive workspace, saving you time and effort on everyday tasks. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Using Your iPhone as a High-Quality Mac Microphone # Deep dive into Using Your iPhone as a High-Quality Mac Microphone Elevate your audio recording quality without any extra hardware by using your iPhone as a high-quality microphone for your Mac. This Continuity feature allows you to wirelessly stream audio from your iPhone's advanced microphone system directly to your Mac, perfect for creating podcasts, recording voiceovers, or improving your audio in video calls. ## What's new Your iPhone now appears as an available microphone option in audio recording applications on your Mac, such as **QuickTime Player**. When selected, your iPhone automatically enters a dedicated microphone mode, confirming it's connected and capturing audio. This seamless integration leverages the powerful microphones you already have in your pocket to deliver clearer, richer sound for your Mac-based projects. ## How to use this feature 1. Open an application on your Mac that can record audio, such as **QuickTime Player**. 2. Start a new audio recording by selecting **File** > **New Audio Recording**. 3. Click the dropdown arrow next to the record button to see available microphone sources. 4. Select your iPhone from the list of microphones. Your iPhone's screen will change to confirm it is connected and acting as the microphone. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1e66839a503df1e9e81cb3bef729df48f37ca21983378a46e2d3cdb759a23e54_09e09ec2.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **High-Quality Audio:** Leverage the superior microphone array of your iPhone for crisp and clear audio recordings on your Mac. - **Wireless Convenience:** Record without being tethered to your Mac. Position your iPhone wherever it captures the best sound. - **Seamless Integration:** No setup is required. As long as your devices are nearby and on the same Apple ID, your iPhone appears automatically as an input source. - **Broad Compatibility:** Use your iPhone as a microphone in various Mac apps, including QuickTime Player, GarageBand, and third-party video conferencing tools. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best results, position your iPhone closer to your mouth than your Mac's built-in microphone. This is especially useful for reducing echo and background noise in rooms that aren't acoustically treated. You can also monitor audio levels directly on your Mac's recording application to ensure you're not clipping or recording too quietly. ## Summary Using your iPhone as a Mac microphone is a powerful and convenient way to instantly upgrade your audio recording setup. By tapping into the hardware you already own, you can achieve professional-sounding results for podcasts, voiceovers, and meetings with minimal effort. This feature perfectly showcases the power of the Apple ecosystem, making your devices work better together. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into advanced apple tv features (FaceTime camera, AirPlay receiver, remote buttons) # Deep dive into advanced apple tv features (FaceTime camera, AirPlay receiver, remote buttons) Transform your largest screens into powerful communication and entertainment hubs with new Continuity features for Apple TV and Mac. You can now use your iPhone or iPad as a high-quality webcam for FaceTime calls on your television, and even stream video and audio directly to your Mac as if it were an Apple TV. These updates leverage the power of the Apple ecosystem to create more versatile and seamless user experiences. ## What's new This release introduces three significant enhancements that deepen the integration between your Apple devices: - **Apple TV FaceTime Camera:** Use your iPhone or iPad as a wireless camera and microphone for making and receiving FaceTime calls directly on your Apple TV. This feature also supports third-party video conferencing apps like Zoom and Webex. - **Mac as AirPlay Receiver:** Your Mac can now act as an AirPlay destination. Stream video and audio content from your iPhone or iPad directly to your Mac's screen, just as you would with an Apple TV. - **Enhanced Apple TV Remote:** For users who prefer tactile controls, you can now enable directional buttons on the iPhone and iPad's software remote. This replaces the default swipe gesture area with a traditional D-pad for more precise navigation. ## How to use this feature ### Using your Mac as an AirPlay receiver 1. On your Mac, navigate to **System Settings** > **General** > **AirDrop & Handoff**. 2. Toggle the switch for **AirPlay Receiver** to the on position. 3. On your iPhone or iPad, start playing video or audio content and tap the **AirPlay** icon. 4. Select your Mac from the list of available devices to begin streaming. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c28c71c042c6a242a11a0a010c4710cc747576be5d216d3f46d229a009b7e81b_640603b2.jpg) ### Making FaceTime calls on Apple TV 1. Open the **FaceTime** app on your Apple TV. 2. Select your user profile. This will send a notification to your nearby, signed-in iPhone or iPad. 3. On your device, tap **Accept** to use it as a Continuity Camera. 4. Position your iPhone or iPad near the TV, and you can begin making calls on the big screen. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6f45c900da92f0aecd0d227581f6040e6b1c42019b7a614f41509bf9d259e946_d98e4b56.jpg) ### Adding directional buttons to the Apple TV remote 1. On your iPhone or iPad, go to **Settings** > **Accessibility**. 2. Scroll down to the **Accessories** section and select **Apple TV Remote**. 3. Toggle on **Directional Buttons**. 4. The remote in **Control Center** will now display a D-pad instead of a swipe surface. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5a983caa52353270d15c815c8f942de590000ffe85bf7605d768a54023d62d11_1ac16fe9.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Large-Screen Video Calls:** Experience FaceTime and other video calls on your TV, making conversations feel more natural and inclusive for groups. - **Instant Second Screen:** Use your Mac as an impromptu display for sharing videos or presentations from your iPhone without needing an Apple TV. - **Precise Remote Control:** Navigate menus, apps, and the timeline with greater accuracy using the new directional buttons, which mimic the feel of a physical remote. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the best FaceTime results, consider using a MagSafe-compatible stand or mount to position your iPhone securely on top of or below your television. If multiple users are present, you can easily connect a different iPhone or iPad to the Apple TV by selecting **Other...** in the FaceTime app and scanning the on-screen QR code. ## Summary The new Apple TV and AirPlay features expand the functionality of your existing devices, turning them into more capable tools for both work and leisure. By allowing your Mac to receive AirPlay streams and enabling your iPhone to power FaceTime on your TV, Apple continues to build a deeply integrated ecosystem where your devices work together seamlessly. The addition of directional buttons also provides a welcome quality-of-life improvement for controlling your Apple TV. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Advanced AirPods Settings # Deep dive into Advanced AirPods Settings Get more granular control over your AirPods with a dedicated menu for advanced accessibility settings. This feature centralizes powerful customization options, allowing you to fine-tune everything from gesture sensitivity to noise control, solving common issues like being unable to use noise cancellation with only one AirPod. ## What's new A new **AirPods** section is now available within the **Accessibility** settings on your iPhone. This menu consolidates several advanced controls that were previously hidden or unavailable. Key settings include the ability to enable **Noise Cancellation with One AirPod**, adjust the **Press Speed** and **Press and Hold Duration** for the stems, control the **Tone Volume** for system sounds, and manage spatial audio **Head Tracking**. ## Getting started 1. Connect your AirPods to your iPhone by opening the case or placing them in your ears. 2. Open the **Settings** app on your iPhone. 3. Scroll down and tap on **Accessibility**. 4. In the 'Physical and Motor' section, tap on **AirPods** to access the advanced settings menu. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/186c3a769f206c22d8f157ff997814d4657acc0c0ade52a53000afae629bcc6d_cf374a17.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Use Noise Cancellation with one AirPod:** Finally, you can enjoy active noise cancellation even when you're only using a single AirPod. Simply toggle on the **Noise Cancellation with One AirPod** setting. - **Customize Gesture Sensitivity:** Adjust the **Press Speed** and **Press and Hold Duration** to make the controls on your AirPods more or less sensitive, preventing accidental triggers. - **Adjust System Sound Volume:** Control the loudness of system sounds like the low battery warning by adjusting the **Tone Volume** slider. - **Fine-Tune Volume Control:** For AirPods Pro, you can enable or disable **Volume Swipe** and adjust the swipe timing to prevent unintended volume changes. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature If you often listen with only one earbud in a noisy environment, enabling **Noise Cancellation with One AirPod** is a game-changer for focus and clarity. For users who find the default controls too fast or slow, try setting the **Press and Hold Duration** to 'Shorter' or 'Shortest' for quicker response times. ## Summary The advanced AirPods settings in Accessibility unlock a new level of personalization for your listening experience. By centralizing these powerful options, you can easily adjust how your AirPods respond to your interactions and manage audio features like noise cancellation and system sounds. This makes your AirPods more intuitive and better suited to your specific needs. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into mirroring and controlling your Apple Watch from iPhone # Deep dive into mirroring and controlling your Apple Watch from iPhone Apple Watch Mirroring is a powerful accessibility feature that lets you see your Apple Watch screen and control it directly from your paired iPhone. This feature makes it easier to interact with your watch by leveraging the larger display of your iPhone, which is especially helpful for users with motor or visual impairments, or for anyone who needs to demonstrate a feature to someone else. ## What's new This release introduces full remote control of your Apple Watch through your iPhone. By enabling **Apple Watch Mirroring**, you can see a live, interactive display of your watch face and apps on your phone. You can tap, swipe, and even use virtual versions of the Digital Crown and Side Button, making every aspect of your watch accessible from the larger screen. ## How to use this feature 1. On your iPhone, open the **Settings** app. 2. Navigate to the **Accessibility** section. 3. Scroll down and tap on **Apple Watch Mirroring**. 4. Toggle the **Apple Watch Mirroring** switch on to begin. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d4c6b037ff8b797e6af406cb1cca83114a4fa5eb5ac5a155fab1a59d63e3be19_168df7eb.jpg) Once connected, a window showing your Apple Watch screen will appear at the bottom of your iPhone display. You can now interact with it as if you were touching the watch itself. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/86b5f40cbadddadba00a418a9de77fc5440dfc870230e0a986dcb442275e3cca_f386ef18.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Full Remote Control:** Navigate watchOS, open apps, swipe between watch faces, and interact with complications using your iPhone's touchscreen. - **Virtual Hardware Buttons:** Access virtual representations of the Digital Crown and Side Button to scroll through lists, return to the watch face, or open the Dock. - **Improved Accessibility:** Users who find the small watch display challenging can now use the larger iPhone screen to manage their watch more easily. - **Easy Demonstrations:** Show others how to use an Apple Watch feature without them needing to look at your wrist. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature Apple Watch Mirroring uses AirPlay to stream the display, so a stable Wi-Fi connection between your iPhone and Apple Watch will provide the smoothest experience. If the connection seems slow, check your network or try moving closer to your router. This is a great tool for configuring complex watch faces or rearranging apps on your watch grid, as the larger screen provides more precision. ## Summary Apple Watch Mirroring bridges the gap between your iPhone and your watch, offering an unprecedented level of control and accessibility. It transforms your iPhone into a powerful remote control for your watch, making it more usable for everyone. Whether for assistance, configuration, or demonstration, this feature adds a significant new dimension to the Apple ecosystem experience. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into playing background sounds (white noise) # Deep dive into playing background sounds (white noise) Your Apple devices now come with built-in background sounds, designed to help you focus, stay calm, or rest. This feature plays soothing ambient noises like rain, ocean waves, or balanced noise directly from your device, masking unwanted environmental sounds without needing a separate app. It's a seamless way to create your own personal soundscape, whether you're working, studying, or winding down. ## What's new This feature integrates a suite of ambient sounds directly into iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. You can now add a dedicated **Background Sounds** control to your **Control Center** for quick access. From there, you can turn sounds on or off, choose from a variety of soundscapes, and adjust the volume independently of your system's main volume. The sounds can even play alongside other media like music or podcasts, allowing you to create a layered audio experience. ## Getting started 1. On your iPhone or iPad, go to **Settings** > **Control Center**. 2. Scroll down and find the **Hearing** control (represented by an ear icon) and tap the green plus button to add it. 3. Swipe down from the top-right corner to open **Control Center** and tap the new **Hearing** icon. 4. Tap the **Background Sounds** button at the bottom to turn the feature on. Tap it again to turn it off. 5. To change the sound or adjust its volume, tap the name of the current sound (e.g., 'Rain') from the same menu. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4433247a5c10f8b54d50ff80bf21a847f18affcf596c26da8fa152757b1f01d3_353a8c8b.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Choose your sound:** Select from a variety of sounds, including Balanced, Bright, or Dark Noise, Ocean, Rain, and Stream. - **Play with other media:** Background sounds can play simultaneously with other audio from apps like Music or Podcasts. - **Independent volume control:** Adjust the volume of the background sound without affecting your device's main volume. - **Cross-device availability:** The feature is also available on your Mac, accessible through **System Settings** and **Control Center**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0ee6f028af9ea458b4183a0b6f5357994694931dbdcba64c0ac66265a802a6cb_e087f9fb.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For more advanced options, navigate to **Settings** > **Accessibility** > **Audio/Visual** > **Background Sounds**. Here, you can adjust the volume when media is playing and enable a setting to 'Stop Sounds When Locked' to conserve battery. On a Mac, you can set a timer or have sounds turn off automatically when your Mac is not in use. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9a3349976c15152ec2478862b25077ccbdad14d4e2b68c71b437bcc01b8921b2_ea7b9d19.jpg) ## Summary Playing Background Sounds is a powerful yet simple tool for managing your auditory environment. By providing quick access to a library of ambient sounds, you can easily mask distractions and create a more productive or relaxing atmosphere. With its seamless integration into the Control Center, this feature is always just a swipe and a tap away. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## What's New: 7 Advanced HomeKit Automations ### Overview: 7 advanced HomeKit automations you need # Overview: 7 advanced HomeKit automations you need

This guide introduces seven advanced automations to enhance your Apple HomeKit smart home. These automations move beyond simple triggers to create more intelligent, context-aware routines that respond to your environment and habits. Learn how to combine multiple sensors, create conditional triggers, and control groups of devices with a single action. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## Doors + Lights You can create a simple yet powerful automation to turn off all lights and fans in a room when you leave. By placing a contact sensor on the door, you can trigger an action that turns off multiple accessories. Adding a short delay ensures the lights don't turn off prematurely if the door is opened and closed quickly. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5a6679839eeed6a29af37a5310bf7263c262c96193ad39de780a2790d712af91_05f1c4d9.jpg) ## Multi-Step Automations Combine multiple conditions to build smarter, multi-step automations. For example, you can have patio fans turn on automatically only when motion is detected *and* the outdoor temperature is above a certain threshold. This is achieved by converting a standard automation to a Shortcut, where you can add conditional logic based on the state of different sensors. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/60eec795715e70cb888660b981d2a4279d4b878c034f828555046802bf3d7c4e_307c2d94.jpg) ## Door Open Notifications Get a notification if a door or fridge is left open for too long. Since the Home app doesn't natively support this, you can use a free third-party app like Pushcut. The automation waits for a set duration after a door opens, checks if it's still open, and then sends a notification to your device. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8040c52e599344b5fb3ef4cedd5fd8c67b1358fd712b9621d14296d7b994267d_f554c2b2.jpg) ## Set Temp by Weather Automatically adjust your smart thermostat based on the daily weather forecast. You can create an automation that runs at a specific time, like sunrise, checks the predicted high temperature for the day, and then sets your thermostat to cool or heat accordingly. This helps you proactively manage your home's climate. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1889620bc3662ebc5ca0992441ebfdc82913f8b269add82d566a2a10dacfa624_fbec4318.jpg) ## Garden Hose Automation Prevent water waste with smart hose controllers that feature a built-in auto-shutoff timer. In the device settings within the Home app, you can set a **Default Run Time**. Whenever you turn on the hose, it will automatically turn off after the specified duration, ensuring you don't forget it's running. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3d101d78881c45e3ec99d25e0ae8b6093a389aed40717e8b5f111c351582aaf6_72a2074c.jpg) ## Occupancy Sensors Use occupancy sensors for more reliable presence detection than standard motion sensors. Occupancy sensors can detect if a person is in a room even if they are sitting still, such as when reading or working. This allows you to create automations that turn lights off only when the room is truly empty. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0725c992c534989d28736601d6481b173a297cc6a2635bec34dda8cd41a44082_b5ea6ae1.jpg) ## Multi Device Control Turn any smart switch into a master control for an entire room. You can create an automation where turning off a single, specific light switch triggers multiple other devices to turn off or change their state. For instance, turning off your main bathroom light can also turn off the shower fan, close the shades, and pause music on a HomePod. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6ec551d3b3390616835c3ff240488b7dda1428216db92cee3b516041a927a6d9_6ced84e8.jpg) ## Summary This collection of automations empowers you to create a more responsive and intelligent smart home. By leveraging conditional logic, multiple sensors, and device grouping, you can reduce manual tasks and make your home work for you. Key takeaways include using Shortcuts for complex logic and using single accessories as triggers for entire scenes. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into automating lights with door sensors # Deep dive into automating lights with door sensors Tired of lights being left on in empty rooms? This automation allows you to automatically turn off lights, fans, and other devices when you leave a room, using a simple door sensor as the trigger. It's a convenient way to save energy and make your smart home feel more intelligent. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new You can now create sophisticated automations that respond to the state of a door sensor. By using the **A Sensor Detects Something** trigger, you can initiate a sequence of actions when a door opens or closes. For more advanced control, you can convert this automation into a Shortcut, allowing you to add conditions like a time delay before the actions are executed. ## How to use this feature 1. From the **Home** or **Automation** tab, tap the **+** icon and select **Add Automation**. 2. Choose the event trigger **A Sensor Detects Something**. 3. Select your door contact sensor from the list of available sensors. 4. Set the trigger condition to **Opens** to activate the automation when someone is leaving the room. 5. Select the lights, fans, or other accessories you want to control and set their desired state (e.g., Turn Off). ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/97e222121a58ec2b22578ca83128aec25c5a368cdb95e741fe77ced497ca53a5_de8cd0b8.jpg) ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For added flexibility, convert your automation to a Shortcut. This allows you to add a **Wait** action, preventing lights from turning off immediately if the door is opened briefly. A 30 to 60-second delay is a great starting point. To do this, scroll to the bottom of the accessory selection screen and tap **Convert To Shortcut**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6c4300a74c909e58a7d768ec45a5decaacdd74253b8ca34a57a690aeb7395fba_762fd7ac.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Energy Savings**: Automatically turn off lights and fans in rooms like closets, pantries, and bathrooms when they are no longer in use. - **Enhanced Convenience**: Eliminate the need to manually turn off multiple switches when leaving a room. - **Advanced Control**: Use the 'Convert to Shortcut' feature to add delays, preventing lights from turning off prematurely. - **Multi-Device Triggering**: A single door opening can trigger multiple actions across different accessories, such as turning off lights, pausing music on a HomePod, and turning off an exhaust fan. ## Summary Automating your lights based on door sensors is a simple yet powerful way to make your smart home more responsive and efficient. By setting up this automation, you can ensure that energy isn't wasted on lights left on in empty rooms. Converting the automation to a Shortcut unlocks even more powerful customization, giving you precise control over your home's environment. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating multi-conditional automations (Motion & Temperature) # Deep dive into creating multi-conditional automations (Motion & Temperature) Go beyond simple triggers by creating automations that evaluate multiple conditions before running. This feature allows you to combine inputs from different sensors, such as motion and temperature, to build more intelligent and context-aware smart home routines. For example, you can now have fans turn on when you enter a room, but only if the room is actually warm. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The key to creating multi-conditional automations is the ability to convert a standard Home automation into a shortcut. By using the **Convert to Shortcut** option, you unlock the full power of the Shortcuts app within your Home automations. This allows you to add advanced logic, such as 'If' statements, and get the current state of other accessories to use as conditions for your actions. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/2c9a3a9c03a1d8b9df7dfb2512a5625fba564a39f8d489162e6051221de7ca56_46a64862.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Start a new automation in the **Home** app and choose a primary trigger, such as **A Sensor Detects Something**. 2. Select your primary trigger sensor (e.g., a motion sensor) and set its initial trigger condition (e.g., **Detects Motion**). 3. On the next screen where you select accessories, scroll to the very bottom and tap **Convert to Shortcut**. 4. In the shortcut editor, add a **Get state** action to read the status of a second accessory, such as a temperature sensor. 5. Add an **If** action. Set the condition to check the state of the second accessory (e.g., 'If Current Temperature is greater than or equal to 76°F'). 6. Drag a **Control Home** action inside the 'If' block. Select the accessory you want to control (e.g., Patio Fans) and set its desired state (e.g., Turn On). 7. Save the automation. It will now only run when both the initial trigger and the 'If' condition are met. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6acc4f938adec002991ebe56cecf5eea24555ac2c8efa7331fca161f928a7181_54bc5d95.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Combine multiple sensor inputs:** Trigger an action based on motion, but only if a separate sensor reports a specific temperature, humidity, or light level. - **Create context-aware routines:** Ensure your ceiling fans only turn on when motion is detected *and* it's warm outside, preventing them from running on a cool day. - **Use weather forecasts as a condition:** Set your thermostat for the day based on the morning's weather forecast for the high temperature. - **Build advanced logic:** Use 'If', 'Otherwise', and 'End If' blocks to create complex workflows that account for multiple scenarios, making your smart home more intuitive. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature To make building these automations easier, give your sensors descriptive names in the Home app (e.g., 'Patio Motion Sensor' or 'Backyard Temperature Sensor'). This will help you quickly identify the right device when adding actions in the shortcut editor. Also, remember that you can add actions to the 'Otherwise' section to define what should happen if your condition is not met. ## Summary Multi-conditional automations elevate your smart home from a set of simple commands to an intelligent, responsive system. By converting your automations to shortcuts, you can layer conditions from multiple sensors to create routines that adapt to your environment. This powerful capability allows for more precise and useful automations that truly work for you. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into creating 'Door Left Open' notifications # Deep dive into creating 'Door Left Open' notifications While the Home app can trigger automations when a door opens, it lacks a native feature to notify you if a door or window remains open for an extended period. This can lead to energy waste or security risks. This guide shows you how to create a powerful 'Door Left Open' notification by combining a contact sensor, a third-party notification app, and the 'Convert to Shortcut' feature within your Home automations. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new By converting a standard Home automation into a Shortcut, you unlock advanced scripting capabilities that allow for conditional logic. This new workflow enables you to:Incorporate a 'Wait' action to delay the automation.Check the status of a device *after* the delay.Trigger a custom push notification using a third-party service if the condition is still met.This method provides a robust way to monitor doors, windows, or even a mini-fridge, ensuring you're only alerted when it's necessary. ## How to use this feature 1. Download and set up the Pushcut app. Create a new notification for your alert (e.g., 'Mini Fridge Open') and copy its unique URL. 2. In the **Home** app, start a new automation. Select **A Sensor Detects Something** as the trigger and choose your contact sensor (e.g., Mini Fridge sensor). 3. Set the trigger condition to **Opens** and tap **Next**. 4. Scroll to the bottom of the accessories list and select **Convert To Shortcut**. 5. Inside the Shortcut editor, add a **Wait** action and set the duration (e.g., 60 seconds). This determines how long the door must be open before you're notified. 6. Add a **Get state** of a Home accessory action and select the same contact sensor again to check its current status. 7. Add an **If** action. Set the condition to check if the **Contact Sensor State Name** is 'Open'. 8. Inside the **If** block, add a **Get Contents of URL** action and paste the URL you copied from Pushcut. 9. Tap **Next**, give your automation a name, and tap **Done** to save it. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/fbe51ae7271062ecc55ae3be63e409b8938d2006e88bad8afe714125f548ea55_c3073464.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Prevent Energy Waste:** Get an alert if a refrigerator or freezer door is left open for too long. - **Enhance Security:** Receive notifications if a garage door, back door, or window remains open when it shouldn't be. - **Reduce Nuisance Alerts:** The wait timer ensures you are only notified after a set duration, not every time the door is opened and closed normally. - **Create Custom Alerts:** Use Pushcut to create specific, actionable notification text that tells you exactly which door is open. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature The 'Wait' action in Home automations is most reliable for durations under a few minutes. For this use case, a wait time between 60 and 120 seconds is ideal. Longer wait times may not execute as consistently, so test different durations to see what works best for your setup. ## Summary Creating 'Door Left Open' notifications is a perfect example of how to extend the power of Apple Home automations. By converting a simple trigger into a conditional Shortcut, you can build smarter, more context-aware alerts that provide real-world value for security and convenience. This workflow turns a simple contact sensor into an intelligent monitoring system for any door, window, or appliance in your home. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into setting thermostat temperature based on weather forecasts # Deep dive into setting thermostat temperature based on weather forecasts Go beyond reacting to the current temperature in your home. You can now create smart home automations that proactively adjust your thermostat based on the day's weather forecast. This allows your home to prepare for hot or cold weather automatically, ensuring comfort while optimizing energy usage. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new By converting a Home automation to a Shortcut, you can now access powerful actions from the Weather app. This update lets you pull the **Daily Forecast** for your current location directly into your automation's logic. You can then use an **If** statement to check conditions like the predicted high or low temperature for the day and control your smart thermostat accordingly. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5049124caffd6e464c49f7c24f37adcad452589d8ad702d8c61ac87a18b509c8_328c1b5e.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. In the **Home** app, go to the **Automation** tab and tap the **+** icon to create a new automation. 2. Choose **A Time of Day Occurs** as the trigger and select a time, like **Sunrise**. Set it to repeat daily. 3. On the accessories screen, scroll to the bottom and select **Convert To Shortcut**. 4. Add a **Get Weather Forecast** action and set it to get the **Daily** forecast for your **Current Location**. 5. Add an **If** action. Tap the input variable and select the **High** temperature from the Weather Conditions. 6. Set the condition, for example, **is greater than or equal to 76°F**. 7. Inside the **If** block, add a **Control Home** action, select your thermostat, and set it to your desired cooling mode and temperature (e.g., Cool to 72°F). 8. Optionally, add another **Control Home** action under the **Otherwise** block to set your thermostat to heat if the forecast is cold. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/be49a1e6963d30b090ff3aa63aa4fe05a55013845a73ea3246fcd1fab7370167_f1ec771a.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Proactive Climate Control:** Set your thermostat to cool mode in the morning only if the day is predicted to be hot, saving energy on milder days. - **Winter Preparation:** Automatically switch to heat mode if the day's predicted low is below a certain threshold. - **Energy Savings:** Avoid running your HVAC system unnecessarily by making decisions based on the forecast, not just the current indoor temperature. - **Complex Logic:** Combine weather conditions with other triggers, such as whether someone is home, to create highly customized and efficient climate automations. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For a complete climate solution, build a single automation that handles both hot and cold forecasts. Use the **If** block to check for a high temperature and set cooling, then add actions to the **Otherwise** block to check for a low temperature and set heating. This creates a versatile, all-season automation that runs just once a day. ## Summary Automating your thermostat based on weather forecasts is a powerful way to make your smart home more intelligent and hands-free. By setting a daily automation at sunrise, you can ensure your home's climate is perfectly prepared for the day ahead, keeping you comfortable while also being mindful of energy consumption. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Controlling Multiple Devices with a Single Switch # Deep dive into Controlling Multiple Devices with a Single Switch Previously, controlling multiple smart home devices based on a single trigger might have been limited to basic scenes. With this release, the ability to convert HomeKit automations into full Shortcuts workflows unlocks unprecedented control and personalization. You can now orchestrate complex home routines from a single input, making your smart home more intuitive and efficient. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new The core enhancement is the option to convert standard HomeKit automations into powerful **Shortcuts**. This feature allows you to integrate advanced logic, such as conditional statements (if/otherwise), custom delays, and web requests, directly into your home automations. For instance, you can set a contact sensor (your 'single switch') to not only trigger a light but also to implement a delay, check another sensor's state, or send a custom notification using a third-party app like Pushcut. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6c4300a74c909e58a7d768ec45a5decaacdd74253b8ca34a57a690aeb7395fba_762fd7ac.jpg) ## How to use this feature ### Example 1: Automated Bathroom Lights with Delay 1. **1. Initiate Automation:** In the **Home** app, tap the **+** icon, then select **Add Automation**. Choose **A Sensor Detects Something** and select your contact sensor (e.g., **P2 Door** in Kid's Bathroom). 2. **2. Define Trigger:** Configure the sensor's trigger to when the door **Opens**. You can also specify **Time** or **People** conditions if desired. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/30fa2ec23250527dab7e5d6c113e37b2556b2cd97a5833d63e6dbd0dd5839570_fefbd84b.jpg) 3. **3. Convert to Shortcut:** Instead of selecting immediate actions, scroll to the bottom of the 'Select Scenes and Accessories' screen and tap **Convert To Shortcut**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6c4300a74c909e58a7d768ec45a5decaacdd74253b8ca34a57a690aeb7395fba_762fd7ac.jpg) 4. **4. Add Delay and Control Devices:** In the **Shortcuts** editor:Remove the default "Set Scenes And Accessories" action.Add a **Wait** action and set it to your desired delay (e.g., **30 seconds**). ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/25d52051ee7e7bb128e963c1ec5f100d41208c0e26eaddc14908a9710507725f_ad8fe717.jpg) 5. Add a **Control Home** action. Select all the accessories you want to turn off (e.g., **Exhaust Fan**, **Shower Lights**, **Vanity Lights**) and set them to **Turn Off**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1239e5af4bb7d97ca2bf5882e1dceb699e56c369add7cb42726c2c56b3ee68f9_8740ab83.jpg) 6. **5. Save Automation:** Tap the checkmark icon to save and name your advanced automation (e.g., 'Kids Bath Off'). ### Example 2: Mini Fridge Left Open Notification 1. **1. Create Notification in Pushcut:** Open the **Pushcut** app. Tap the **+** icon to create a new notification. Name it (e.g., 'Mini Fridge Open') and customize the notification text (e.g., 'Mini Fridge Left Open'). Copy the generated **Webhook URL**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/599b5de07f7714f3ce228cbcd69b2283036c7c86eddec8967d13d88a46d4cc27_2bf52da5.jpg) 2. **2. Initiate Home Automation:** Go to the **Home** app, tap the **+** icon, and select **Add Automation**. Choose **A Sensor Detects Something** and select your contact sensor (e.g., **Mini Fridge** in Backyard). ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/479faa53a22e7ce077640a3ddc4e2c66a1f94d2bfa6d5d1dcbff989e0d94106b_94c86faf.jpg) 3. **3. Define Trigger:** Set the trigger to when the sensor **Opens**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bf635c302e2fc789e192742d69fefd52d2986c81a900281cc12bc37c189ab05a_80e8c6d7.jpg) 4. **4. Convert to Shortcut:** Scroll down and tap **Convert To Shortcut**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/629ebebefee0cf2939eadca9a804fe9b4b0a3350aabdadeeb3318a6c1f005152_4ed7cc64.jpg) 5. **5. Add Conditional Notification:** In the **Shortcuts** editor:Remove the default "Set Scenes And Accessories" action.Add a **Wait** action (e.g., **60 seconds**). ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/4e3b92227487c8e06014d56f178ef62a0e314f42345256ab40aab84fa54383db_2e5d4406.jpg) 6. Add a **Get State** action for your **Mini Fridge Contact Sensor State**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/74da738184995bf41727e3eaa5b54225a6080c8fdf2f656e19fce31d79d9db21_32d8e791.jpg) 7. Add an **If** action. Set the condition to: **If Contact Sensor State is Open** (change 'Number' to 'Name' and type 'Open'). ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7718745a3ca07c21cb7d1a9fb3610edc1aea7df19ece7ab19317d7ea0cac38a7_b6e60693.jpg) 8. Under the **If** block, add a **Get Contents of URL** action. Paste the **Webhook URL** copied from Pushcut. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0d002cb1ba8f37d0583efc14496ba43e2e6a16084da509488c7bc0582657bb06_84778ea1.jpg) 9. **6. Save Automation:** Tap the checkmark icon to save. ## Key capabilities - **Orchestrated Routines:** Trigger a sequence of actions across multiple devices from a single input, creating a more cohesive smart home experience. - **Conditional Execution:** Implement 'if-then' logic based on sensor data, time of day, presence, or even weather conditions to ensure actions only occur when appropriate. - **Delayed Actions:** Introduce custom delays into your automations, preventing premature actions and allowing for more natural transitions in your home environment. - **Expanded Integration:** Leverage the full power of Shortcuts to interact with a wider range of apps and services beyond standard HomeKit accessories (e.g., Pushcut for notifications). - **Energy Efficiency:** Automatically turn off groups of lights, fans, or other appliances when a door is closed or a room is unoccupied after a set delay, reducing wasted energy. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature **Plan Your Workflow:** Before converting to a Shortcut, map out the exact sequence of actions and any conditions or delays you want to include. **Start Simple:** Begin with one or two devices and a basic delay, then gradually add complexity as you become more comfortable. **Test Thoroughly:** Use the **Test This Automation** option in the Home app to ensure your Shortcut runs as expected before relying on it daily. **Use Descriptive Names:** Clearly name your automations and scenes to easily identify their purpose in your growing list of routines. ## Summary This enhanced capability to convert HomeKit automations into Shortcuts transforms how you interact with your smart home. By consolidating the control of multiple devices under a single, intelligent trigger, you can now create highly customized, efficient, and responsive home environments that adapt seamlessly to your needs. This feature is a game-changer for advanced smart home users looking for deeper integration and control. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Garden Hose Automation # Deep dive into Garden Hose Automation Garden Hose Automation brings intelligence and convenience to your outdoor watering tasks. Whether you need to refill your pool, water your garden, or simply manage your outdoor water usage, this feature helps you ensure efficient and worry-free operation. Automating your hose allows you to set precise run times, preventing overfilling or excessive water consumption and saving you time and resources. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new Smart garden hose controllers, such as the Eve Aqua and the Meross Water Hose Controller, now offer enhanced built-in automation capabilities. You can directly configure a default run time within the device's settings in the Home app. This means that whenever the hose is manually turned on, it will automatically shut off after the preset duration, providing a failsafe against accidental overwatering or continuous flow. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f3cbaec51f4382b51641c1cb34605f39cbf563e3cc89e7f3400f1677fb3fec54_54fd7f66.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Locate your connected garden hose controller (e.g., **Eve Aqua**, **Meross Water Hose Controller**) in the Apple **Home app**. 2. Tap on the device to view its controls, then tap the **settings gear icon** (usually in the bottom right corner). 3. Within the settings, you will find an option for **Default Run Time**. 4. Select your desired duration from the available options (e.g., 1 hour, 50 minutes, 2 hours). 5. Confirm your selection. Now, whenever you activate the hose (either manually or via another automation), it will automatically run for the specified time and then shut off. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b9e771ac55902fbddb5a69a86097b5acf6a408e9c092d1024e0fcf95357efbe5_bb8e603c.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automated Shut-Off:** Prevents continuous water flow after manual activation, avoiding waste and potential damage. - **Time-Based Control:** Set specific durations for watering or refilling tasks to match your needs precisely. - **Convenience:** No need to remember to turn off the hose, making outdoor chores more hands-off. - **Water Conservation:** Helps manage water usage efficiently, especially for tasks like pool refilling or garden irrigation. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature Consider your specific watering needs. For pool refilling, measure how long it typically takes to reach the desired water level. For garden beds, research the optimal watering duration for your plants. It's recommended to choose a hose controller with Thread support, like the Eve Aqua, for enhanced reliability and responsiveness in your HomeKit setup. This ensures your automations trigger consistently and communicate effectively within your smart home ecosystem. ## Summary Garden Hose Automation offers a smart solution for managing your outdoor water systems. By leveraging the built-in run time automation in compatible hose controllers, you can prevent water waste, simplify routine tasks, and ensure that your pool, lawn, or garden receives just the right amount of water. This small yet impactful automation can bring significant peace of mind and efficiency to your smart home. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into using Occupancy Sensors for reliable automations # Deep dive into using Occupancy Sensors for reliable automations Motion sensors have long been a staple for smart home automations, but they often fall short when detecting stationary presence. Occupancy Sensors offer a significant leap forward, providing more accurate and reliable detection of whether a space is truly occupied. This ensures your automations respond precisely to real human presence, rather than just movement, eliminating frustrating false triggers. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new While motion sensors detect movement, Occupancy Sensors leverage advanced technology to detect the sustained presence of a person in a room, even if they are perfectly still. This means your lights won't turn off while you're reading a book or working at your desk simply because you haven't moved in a while. The new integration allows you to create automations based on two distinct states: **detects occupancy** and **stops detecting occupancy**, offering a more nuanced control over your smart home environment. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/bedcb636c63efd6e13df01a749a4abd40b3a2990ed448bfa6bc733fe6c38f921_145f877e.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Ensure you have a HomeKit-compatible Occupancy Sensor added to your **Home** app (e.g., Aqara FP300). 2. Open the **Home** app, navigate to the **Automation** tab, and tap the **+** icon to **Add Automation**. 3. Select **A Sensor Detects Something** from the list of events. 4. Choose your Occupancy Sensor from the list (e.g., **Studio Occupancy Sensor**). 5. You will now see options for **Detects Occupancy** and **Stops Detecting Occupancy**. Select the desired trigger. 6. Tap **Next** and choose the accessories or scenes you want to control when this trigger occurs (e.g., turn off studio lights when occupancy stops being detected). ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c7544f3a6a78d7977ec187d047ba5ec1f61df182815aa9dc305be24482e70f58_632d92f0.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Reliable Lighting Control:** Prevent lights from turning off prematurely when you're present but stationary, ensuring a seamless user experience. - **Enhanced Energy Savings:** Accurately determine when a room is empty to turn off lights and other devices, minimizing wasted energy. - **Advanced Climate Control:** Integrate with smart thermostats to adjust temperature only when a room is genuinely occupied, optimizing comfort and efficiency. - **Privacy and Security:** Automate blinds or activate security features based on true occupancy, providing an additional layer of smart protection. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For optimal performance, place Occupancy Sensors in areas where sustained presence is common, such as home offices, living rooms, or bedrooms. Consider combining Occupancy Sensors with other conditions (like time of day or specific schedules) to create highly intelligent and contextual automations. Remember that Occupancy Sensors are designed for presence, not just fleeting movement, offering a superior experience compared to traditional motion sensors for these use cases. ## Summary Occupancy Sensors redefine smart home automations by moving beyond simple motion detection to understand true human presence. This significantly enhances the reliability and convenience of automations, particularly for lighting and climate control. By leveraging these advanced sensors, you can build a smarter, more efficient, and more intuitive home environment that truly anticipates your needs. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## What's New in iOS 26 (Ringtones, Maps, Reminders) ### Overview: What's New in iOS 26 # Overview: What's New in iOS 26

iOS 26 introduces a suite of innovative features and improvements designed to enhance user experience across your iPhone. This release focuses on refining everyday interactions, boosting productivity, and offering greater personalization and control. Discover how these updates streamline your daily tasks, from managing media to capturing moments with your camera. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## Enhanced Media Management With iOS 26, controlling your music and personalizing audio is more intuitive than ever. You can now effortlessly change tracks in **Apple Music** by swiping on the album artwork within the 'Now Playing' screen or even on the mini-player. Additionally, transforming any audio file, such as a voice memo, into a custom ringtone can be done directly from your iPhone using the **Share button**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e49ad88252732c8044bfcf0e634300fea51288ee1055258307c58386c8084a9a_f54eddbe.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5605d8ba6bf995fb8bd03e641a6e0d1cd1d741898a3ddb8a08af39a49ed134a7_f2e10c90.jpg) ## Smarter Navigation and Organization Apple Maps now includes a 'Visited Places (BETA)' feature that automatically logs locations you've searched for or navigated to. This allows you to easily revisit past dining spots, shops, or leisure activities, with filtering options by **city**, **type**, and **date**. In Safari, managing your browsing is more efficient; you can quickly close multiple tabs or move them to **Tab Groups** by tapping and holding the **address bar** or swiping on tabs in the tab view. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8cc0ea5c65ef51c33051f1f0cdda5770967e2b2afbb860188c0adbbc1b6e6706_bbf67a4e.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/48119e19bf387eb740229d784b642ae69411e33bb4517eda5c1566cfb4a8d93a_6ec8a75d.jpg) ## Streamlined Time and Power Features Setting alarms and calendar events is faster with the new **Time Picker**, allowing you to type in precise times rather than scrolling. For alarms, you can now customize the **snooze duration** and revert the 'Slide to Stop' action to a simple tap by enabling **Prefer Single-Touch Actions** in Accessibility settings. Power management is improved with charging time estimates displayed on the **Lock Screen** and in **Battery settings**, and you can disable **Adaptive Power** to maintain full performance even when your battery is low. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/2ee45db93f628e5eb90ebb37519ab87a35d2a9aea7a6324bc868a9e80b0c9c07_6c41346a.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/b6894740ded7111cb649a02f39db6d9b5c1b0797edba93b2dfbc533817f67ee1_e0390972.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/432b6feb5e3bbd599e6d793390c6dc0aac447b436a62c772341765a0420337ed_55f1d6be.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5b64073d90f13096d698f887ce3ba73f0322be922871758ca94d17bd84251a90_d9a8f7de.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/3809d669679c309f52cc10907923bcc443ec294cb29daf5a89ef184a80d16487_4a7e5f0e.jpg) ## Advanced Camera Capabilities The **Camera Control button** (Action Button) can now instantly open your camera, or even third-party apps like Instagram, by disabling 'Require Screen On'. You can also access **Burst Mode** by dragging the **shutter button** or holding the **Volume Up button**. A new **Dual Capture** mode (front and rear cameras simultaneously) is now more accessible via a dedicated icon in the camera app, and any iPhone photo can be transformed into a dynamic **Spatial Photo** with a 3D depth effect from the **Photos app**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/7d1490f60f49ab0a8f37fa6931f634b4697b348c6d55e2430bd997af6665baa3_304f46b3.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/93d20a59ef237bbcbae05aa55c857f5cbd7119b1e91f0ba92125e813fc008935_59523a2c.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/871cbcfd814897f305fdc7a1ea9706a8104a0e5311847b83844fb66c499bd04e_09b016ac.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c52470a395c5a5858abb342453f6e9ed358e690b04517d8a78e75ebc1d3190d6_a550272c.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/e8c3fddac99aaedf399d5b9bece0346aee97dda3fd642b38330faba0d6e137e1_ee1ec33e.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/06f3919c8d48930b87c5963516dc00ca088af1a4a63ec3ae8d95feb2b221d27d_ae016895.jpg) ## Convenient Accessibility and Quick Actions Control your audio experience by keeping sound in your **AirPods** even when connected to car Bluetooth. For improved late-night viewing, enable **Reduce White Point** to dim your screen even further via **Control Center** or an **Accessibility Shortcut** (triple-click the Side Button). Adding reminders is quicker than ever with the new **Quick Add Reminder** action, accessible from your **Lock Screen**, **Control Center**, or as a widget. This allows for rapid entry of reminders with customizable lists, alerts, and notes. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/8d6541df1b927777a3aa5879f63dd9d568506f0ddba02fbfb743dd3a4fe8645e_4cd55f97.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/aad7d3f77d911ba545dfbbfaaa20fb5c7e486de3cf56c49eaab0ee0a0bfb1fe1_6c8c28f6.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/474c5864ad2197600c1b5f97e58961a68084b44e5248dbadc154fe3e90714bf7_d82bf023.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/137e7b45442aad1dd5139f890f10748b6be0532b6a211cf304ad7f80735a8242_1df907eb.jpg) ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/dfbb9c762d22f3692edccc211cfd9e65b63a2be2b63f8d9fb6f67d6ff404c0c9_1c7ea397.jpg) ## Summary This iOS 26 release significantly enhances daily iPhone use with refined features in media, navigation, and power management. Users will benefit from more efficient camera controls, personalized audio, and streamlined ways to interact with their device, offering a more intuitive and powerful mobile experience. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Creating Ringtones from Any Audio File # Deep dive into Creating Ringtones from Any Audio File iOS 26 introduces a highly anticipated feature that allows you to transform any audio file into a personalized ringtone directly on your iPhone. This eliminates the need for a computer or third-party apps, making custom ringtone creation seamless and convenient. Now, you can truly make your iPhone uniquely yours with your favorite sounds. Read below for how to make it work. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new Previously, setting a custom ringtone on an iPhone involved syncing through iTunes or using complex workarounds. With iOS 26, Apple has integrated a direct conversion option within the Files app. Any audio file stored on your device, including voice memos or downloaded music, can now be converted and added as a ringtone using a new `**Use as Ringtone**` option in the Share Sheet. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9f9eacebfc6d60db14f061ab9c465cae94eef8872f8948a4b32b8017e8c895db_6c5f6056.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Files** app on your iPhone and locate the audio file you wish to use as a ringtone. 2. Tap on the audio file to open it in the media player. 3. Tap the **Share button** (the square with an arrow pointing upwards) in the bottom right corner of the screen. 4. In the Share Sheet, scroll down and tap **More** to view additional actions. 5. Select the new **Use as Ringtone** option from the list. Your audio file will be processed and added to your ringtone library. 6. To set it as your default ringtone, go to **Settings** > **Sounds & Haptics** > **Ringtone** and select your newly created ringtone from the list. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/901a4c1d59df1672514523be840076e09a674e1c85db2ad911b6394a4dccfade_4aaed740.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Personalization:** Quickly create unique ringtones from any audio clip on your iPhone. - **Voice Memo Ringtones:** Transform personal voice recordings into custom alerts for contacts or general use. - **Any Audio File:** Use various audio formats (e.g., MP3, WAV, M4A) stored locally or in iCloud Drive. - **Seamless Integration:** The process is fully integrated into iOS, removing reliance on external tools. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For best results, trim your audio file to the desired length (up to 30 seconds for ringtones) before converting it. You can use the built-in editing features in the Voice Memos app or other audio editing apps to refine your sound bites. Consider creating unique ringtones for different contacts to easily identify callers without looking at your screen. ## Summary The new ringtone creation feature in iOS 26 is a significant step towards greater iPhone personalization. By allowing users to convert any audio file into a ringtone directly on their device, Apple empowers them to customize their phone's alerts with unprecedented ease and flexibility. This feature is perfect for those who want their phone to sound as unique as they are. **Join the Shortcuts Community** I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Visited Places in Apple Maps # Deep dive into Visited Places in Apple Maps The new Visited Places feature in Apple Maps automatically logs the locations you've been to, offering a personal travel log directly within the app. This innovative addition solves the common problem of forgetting the name of that great restaurant you discovered on vacation or the hidden gem shop you stumbled upon. It empowers you to effortlessly revisit, recommend, and reminisce about your favorite spots. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new With iOS 26, Apple Maps introduces a dedicated **Visited Places** section within the **Places** drawer. This feature intelligently tracks locations where you've searched for directions, viewed business information, or physically spent time, compiling them into a comprehensive list. While still in **BETA**, this capability offers a seamless way to keep a record of your journeys without any manual input, enhancing your ability to remember and organize your experiences. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0cf539a93cba21d839fde350d67ae34e1a875a2cd0ebcffaff6df8e913669be7_93948734.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. Open the Apple Maps application on your iPhone. 2. Tap on the bottom drawer (search bar area) to expand it and reveal more options. 3. Select the **Places** option from the expanded drawer. 4. Look for and tap on **Visited Places (BETA)** in the list. 5. Inside Visited Places, you can browse by **Category** (e.g., **Dining**, **Shopping**, **Transport**, **Leisure**) or by **City**. 6. To refine your search, tap the **City** or **Date** filters at the top to narrow down locations by specific city or a custom date range (**Specific Date**, **Month & Year**, **Date Range**). ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/679d195cdc6a2ce9d23fb0b3bbfcc4025726fb6ecf445474ce2f50da7bb4345c_60cf73e4.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Automatic Logging:** Places you interact with in Maps (searches, directions, business info views) are automatically recorded, creating a hassle-free history. - **Categorized Browsing:** Easily find places by type such as restaurants (**Dining**), retail stores (**Shopping**), airports/stations (**Transport**), or entertainment venues (**Leisure**). - **Advanced Filtering:** Pinpoint specific past visits by filtering locations by the **City** they are in or by a precise **Date** or **Date Range**, perfect for recalling travel memories. - **Personal Travel History:** Builds a comprehensive record of your movements, allowing you to reflect on past experiences and rediscover forgotten favorites. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature After a trip, review your **Visited Places** to bookmark any new favorite restaurants or attractions. This helps build a personalized collection of recommendations. Utilize the date filtering options to quickly find places from a specific vacation, even if you don't remember the exact names. For privacy-conscious users, periodically check your Maps location settings to understand what data is being collected for this feature. ## Summary The **Visited Places** feature in Apple Maps transforms your iPhone into a personal travel diary, automatically chronicling your journeys and discoveries. It provides a highly convenient way to recall places you've been, whether you're looking for that amazing cafe from last summer or the hardware store you visited yesterday. By intelligently logging your interactions with locations, Apple Maps enhances your ability to manage and remember your real-world experiences effortlessly. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Camera Control Button Customization # Deep dive into Camera Control Button Customization The Camera Control button on your iPhone (also known as the Action Button on iPhone 15 Pro and later, or a gesture control on other models) now offers enhanced customization options in iOS 26. This feature allows you to streamline your photography workflow by assigning specific actions or apps to the button, making it faster and more intuitive to capture moments or launch your preferred camera experience. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new In iOS 26, the Camera Control button can now be configured to launch any compatible camera app installed on your iPhone, not just the stock **Camera** app. Furthermore, you can now disable the 'Require Screen On' setting, allowing the camera app to open directly even when your phone's screen is off, removing an extra step for quick captures. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/57db55c4189341448cf4bc1af68c366f436176c1058b5af20f3d0598d52f51e5_d4405747.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. To access Camera Control settings, go to **Settings**. 2. Scroll down and tap on **Camera**. 3. Tap **Camera Control** at the top of the screen. 4. To change the default app, tap on **Camera** under **Launch Camera**. 5. Select your preferred camera app (e.g., **Instagram**, **Halide**, **Blackmagic Cam**, etc.) from the list. 6. To enable direct camera access when the screen is off, toggle **Require Screen On** to the OFF position. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/05158bdc188dacd1200b9f63c5cb93fda702e97b6c10d6100bec13728cd5b7f5_7c3052b8.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Capture:** Launch your camera app with a single click, even from a locked screen, ensuring you never miss a shot. - **App Flexibility:** Choose any third-party camera app to be the default launch app, catering to your specific photography needs or social media habits. - **Custom Workflow:** Content creators can set the button to directly open apps like **Instagram** for quick story or post captures. - **Enhanced Privacy:** If you prefer an extra layer of security, keep **Require Screen On** toggled ON so the button only works when your iPhone's display is active. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature Consider your primary use for the Camera Control button. If you're a quick snapper, disabling 'Require Screen On' and linking it to the default Camera app or a fast-launching third-party app is ideal. If you frequently post to social media, setting it directly to an app like Instagram will save you precious seconds. Experiment with different apps and settings to find the configuration that best suits your daily needs. ## Summary The Camera Control button customization in iOS 26 significantly enhances the iPhone's camera accessibility and user experience. By allowing users to select their preferred camera app and bypass the lock screen, it provides a faster, more personalized way to interact with the camera. This feature is a powerful tool for anyone looking to optimize their photo and video capture process on iPhone. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Turning Any Photo into a Spatial Scene # Deep dive into Turning Any Photo into a Spatial Scene With iOS 26, you can now transform your regular 2D photos into immersive 'Spatial Scenes' directly within the Photos app. This feature breathes new life into your captured moments, giving them a three-dimensional depth effect that reacts to your iPhone's movement. It's an exciting way to revisit your memories, especially photos containing people or clear subjects. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new Previously, spatial effects were primarily seen on Lock Screen photos with depth. iOS 26 extends this capability, allowing you to convert almost any photo taken with your iPhone into a dynamic spatial scene. The new functionality automatically analyzes your photo, identifies subjects, and creates a subtle 3D parallax effect, adding depth and immersion as you tilt your device. This makes your existing photo library more interactive and engaging. ## How to use this feature 1. Open the **Photos** app on your iPhone. 2. Navigate to and select a photo you've taken with your iPhone. (Note: This feature typically works best with photos containing clear subjects and sufficient depth, and generally not with screenshots or photos saved from other sources). 3. Look for the small 'eye' icon with a curved arrow in the top-right corner of the photo view. This is the **Spatial Scene** icon. 4. Tap the **Spatial Scene** icon. You'll notice the photo briefly transform as the effect is applied. 5. Once activated, gently tilt and move your iPhone. You'll observe the photo gaining a subtle 3D-like depth, with elements appearing to shift in relation to the background and foreground. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/abd852818925ab8c86aa39d9d02532cb5e995b209c9adaf8076001150b6cb1c3_ec46e7a9.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Transformation:** Convert any compatible photo into a spatial scene with a single tap, without complex editing. - **Enhanced Immersion:** Experience your photos with a new level of depth, making them feel more dynamic and engaging. - **Seamless Integration:** The feature is built directly into the **Photos** app, making it easy to access and apply to your existing library. - **Automatic Depth Detection:** iOS intelligently identifies subjects and backgrounds to create a natural-looking 3D effect. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature For the most striking spatial scenes, choose photos with clear foreground and background elements. Portraits or photos with distinct subjects that stand out from their surroundings tend to yield the best results. Experiment with different photos to see how the effect enhances your favorite memories. ## Summary The new Spatial Scene feature in iOS 26 is a delightful addition that transforms your flat photos into interactive 3D experiences. By simply tapping an icon in the **Photos** app, you can add depth and movement to your cherished memories. This innovative capability makes re-engaging with your photo library a more immersive and captivating experience. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### Deep dive into Quick Add Reminder Action # Deep dive into Quick Add Reminder Action The Quick Add Reminder Action is a new feature designed to streamline the process of jotting down reminders. Instead of navigating through the Reminders app, you can now capture tasks instantly from various access points on your iPhone. This significantly reduces friction, ensuring you can quickly record important thoughts or tasks as soon as they come to mind, preventing them from being forgotten. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What's new Previously, adding a reminder required opening the Reminders app, selecting a list, and then inputting the details. With the new Quick Add Reminder Action, a dedicated, built-in action is now available that bypasses these steps. It provides an immediate input interface accessible directly from the **Lock Screen**, **Control Center**, and even as a **Home Screen Widget**. This action is natively integrated into iOS, meaning you don't need to create a custom Shortcut to use it. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/401ef5bf46024314598b7523aff2ee2b7019b5c4616cea61593d4a5db851e86d_16a341fa.jpg) ## How to use this feature 1. To add the Quick Add Reminder Action to your **Lock Screen**: Press and hold on your Lock Screen, then tap **Customize**. Tap on an existing shortcut icon (e.g., Camera or Flashlight) at the bottom. 2. In the list of available actions, search for "Reminder" and select **New Reminder**. Tap **Done** to save your Lock Screen customization. 3. On your **Lock Screen**, press and hold the newly added **New Reminder** icon. An input field will appear instantly. Type your reminder, and then you can choose the list it goes to, set an alert, location, flag it, and add notes. 4. To add it to your **Control Center**: Go to **Settings** > **Control Center**. Scroll down and tap the **+** icon next to **New Reminder**. 5. Now, open **Control Center**, tap the **New Reminder** icon, type your reminder, and tap the checkmark to save. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/0b2e533342702034cb2aa85ecaf2995be8d754173e50492fc337feb268bad618_f618ec95.jpg) ## Key capabilities - **Instant Capture:** Quickly add reminders without opening the full Reminders app, ideal for capturing ideas on the go. - **Flexible Access:** Place the action on your **Lock Screen**, in **Control Center**, or as a **Home Screen Widget** for convenient access from almost anywhere. - **Comprehensive Options:** Even in the quick-add interface, you can specify the reminder list, set alerts, add locations, flag the reminder, and include notes. - **Native Integration:** The action leverages iOS's built-in functionalities, ensuring a smooth and reliable user experience. ### Tips for getting the most out of this feature Consider placing the Quick Add Reminder Action on your Lock Screen if you frequently capture ideas while your phone is locked. For quick access while using other apps, the Control Center is an excellent choice. Make use of the list selection feature to categorize your reminders immediately, saving time on organization later. This keeps your workflow efficient and your reminders neatly sorted without extra effort. ## Summary The Quick Add Reminder Action empowers you to capture thoughts and tasks with unprecedented speed and convenience. By offering seamless integration across the Lock Screen, Control Center, and Home Screen, this feature eliminates barriers to adding new reminders. It ensures that no idea or task is ever lost, transforming your iPhone into an even more powerful personal assistant for managing your daily life. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## Claude Cowork on Mac ### How to Get Started with Claude Cowork on Mac # How to Get Started with Claude Cowork on Mac If you've been looking for a way to let AI actually *do* things on your computer, Claude Cowork is the real deal. You don't need to be a programmer or understand what an MCP (Model Context Protocol) is to use it. This tool can organize your messy folders, dig through your notes, and even control your web browser. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** This guide will show you how to get it running on your Mac right now to automate some genuinely useful tasks. ## What you'll need Before you start, you need to grab the right software and account tier. 1. Download the Claude app for Mac from claude.com/download. 2. Sign up for a Pro account. It runs $20 a month and is required to use the Cowork features. ## Step 1: Rename files based on their content You can point Claude at a messy folder and have it rename everything based on what's *inside* the files. It can even analyze frames inside video files to figure out what they are and rename them accordingly. 1. Open the Claude app and click the **Cowork** tab at the top of the window. 2. Click **Work in a folder** right in the chat area. 3. Choose a directory, like your **Desktop** or **Downloads**, and click **Open**. 4. Type a prompt like: "Rename the files on my desktop based on the file contents." 5. Click **Let's go**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/1eecd56cda498210650301c95fdcaacce3a6bb695a9e706e784bc1933cb82190_0c5becb1.jpg) Claude will ask for access to that folder. Because it's smart, it will usually ask clarifying questions before taking action—like whether you want to rename just screenshots or all the files inside your working folder. ## Step 2: Install Node.js for local tasks Sometimes Claude Cowork needs a tool called Node.js to run local scripts on your machine. It sounds complicated, but it just takes a couple of terminal commands. 1. Open Spotlight on your Mac and search for **Terminal**. 2. Claude will provide the exact text strings you need. Copy the first string, paste it into your terminal, and hit **Enter**. 3. Copy and paste the second string and hit **Enter**. 4. To verify it worked, copy the final text string Claude gives you to check the version number. If a number pops up, you are successfully installed. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d1605ecbcbf6fbb56757d912e9a6b5fee5726b8d8aca551173b146990e05d81c_ff7f15de.jpg) Pro tip: If you ever get stuck or don't know how to run a command, just ask Claude. It can walk you through the process step-by-step. ## Step 3: Connect apps like Notion, Slack, and Apple Notes Cowork gets incredibly powerful when you connect it to the services you already use. Instead of digging for information, you can just ask Claude to retrieve it. 1. Go to your Claude **Settings**. 2. Under the **General** area, click **Connectors**. 3. Click **Browse connectors** to search for apps like **Notion**, **Slack**, **Apple Notes**, or **Bitly**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/448b2a66365a675069444745ab29c6f03a8595bff9603e9ab1bbec3688ee3538_4cbd0863.jpg) You have granular control over what Claude can do here. For example, you can set Notion's **Read-only tools** to **Always allow**. Then, you can set write actions (like creating pages) to **Needs approval**. This means Claude can search your database anytime to answer your questions, but it can't delete or create things without asking you first. ## Step 4: Let Claude browse the web for you If you don't want to give Claude direct access to your local email or apps, you can have it use Google Chrome as an "agentic browser." It will actually open tabs, navigate websites, and input text for you. 1. Install the Claude extension in Google Chrome. 2. In the Claude Mac app, ask it to do something in the browser. Try a prompt like: "Find a promo code for Overstock and keep trying until one is accepted." 3. A prompt will appear in your browser. Click **Allow for this website** or **Allow all browser actions**. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/284d5c93548a37edd830ea2591430576cb86e575a347713bbf276014f1900b65_9b92b7d5.jpg) You can watch the orange glow around your browser window as Claude works. It can dig through your social media mentions to find a specific post, or automatically test promo codes at checkout until it gets you a discount. ## How to manage privacy and revoke access Giving AI access to your files can feel daunting. Thankfully, MacOS gives you total control over what Claude can see. If you ever want to cut off access to a specific folder, it just takes a few clicks. 1. Open your Mac's **System Settings**. 2. Navigate to **Privacy & Security**, then click **Files & Folders**. 3. Find **Claude** in the list and click the arrow to expand it. 4. Toggle off access to any folder (like your Desktop or Documents) that you no longer want Claude to access. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/beba66ed87930d038fcf9a52a3862501b9b3ab2922dac9d87c2196822ed0e690_c8ce0d01.jpg) You'll need to quit and reopen Claude for the changes to take effect. ## You're all set You now have a powerful AI assistant that can actually execute tasks on your Mac. Start small by letting it organize a few messy screenshot folders. Before long, you'll be having it scrape the web, manage your Bitly links, and pull daily briefings straight from your workspace apps. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Batch-Rename Hundreds of Files (Even Videos) by Content with AI # How to Batch-Rename Hundreds of Files (Even Videos) by Content with AI If you have a messy desktop full of unhelpfully named screenshots and screen recordings, this guide will walk you through fixing it automatically. Manually renaming files takes forever. By the end of this tutorial, you will have an AI assistant organizing your files based purely on what is actually inside them. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What you'll need Before you start, you need two things to make this work. - The Claude desktop app for Mac. You can download this from claude.com/download. - A Claude Pro account. This unlocks the necessary features and costs $20 a month. ## Step 1: Fire up the Cowork tab The magic happens in a specific part of the Claude app. 1. Open the Claude desktop app. 2. Click the **Cowork** tab located at the top of the window. 3. You might be prompted to install Node.js so Claude can run local commands. 4. Open **Terminal** using Spotlight. 5. Paste the two install commands provided by Claude into the window and press **Enter**. 6. Type node -v and press **Enter** to verify the installation was successful. ## Step 2: Rename images based on what they show Let's say you have a folder full of randomly named screenshots. You can tell Claude to look at the images and rename them for you. 1. In the **Cowork** tab, click **Work in a folder**. 2. Choose your **Desktop** from the popup window. 3. Type "Rename the files on my desktop based on the file contents" into the chat and click **Let's go**. 4. Claude will ask for clarification. Choose **Just the desktop screenshot**. 5. Select **Images** when asked which file types should be renamed. Claude looks at the image and renames it. A file with a generic name instantly turns into "Primary-Technology-Podcast-Website-Homepage.png". ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/62a24aefa6e8d7ad9b8983d5640edd8b8b118479695c32dd61bfd80e6d7d16a9_be3db804.jpg) ## Step 3: Rename video files by analyzing frames This is where things get wild. You can do the exact same thing for video files. Claude will actually extract frames from your videos, analyze what is happening, and generate highly accurate names. 1. Click **Work in a folder** again. 2. Select a folder of videos. For this example, choose a **Test** folder inside **Downloads** filled with generic "CleanShot" screen recordings. 3. Tell Claude: "Rename these video files based on the content". 4. Claude extracts the frames and presents a proposed list of new names. 5. Type "yes" in the chat to confirm. Watch your Finder window. Your files will automatically change to descriptive names like "Bringnox - Magnetic Cable Product Page.mp4". ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/5f077f134915de9404fa132ec39e62b31b817602af3b762fcdaf01685ba0a67b_2bcd6d79.jpg) ## Step 4: Connect your everyday apps Claude Cowork is not limited to your local hard drive. You can link it directly to your cloud services. 1. Click **Settings** in the Claude app menu. 2. Navigate to **Connectors**. 3. Here you can connect tools like **Gmail**, **Apple Notes**, **Notion**, **Slack**, and **Bitly**. You get granular control over what Claude can do. You can set **Apple Notes** to "Read-only tools" or require explicit approval for "Write/delete tools". Once connected, you can ask plain-English questions across your apps. Ask "Did I get any important emails from youtube in the last month?" Claude will scan **Gmail** and give you a bulleted summary with direct links. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/11b7fabb9f96c0b2864728799f773718d98e5aa9df6fa118cf0be884fd300461_f96e674b.jpg) You can pull information from multiple places at once. Ask "In what episode of Primary Technology did we discuss the M4 Mac Studio?" Claude searches **Notion**, finds Episode 65, and provides a direct link. You can then ask it to find the chapter markers you sent to a colleague in **Slack**. Claude jumps over to your messages and pulls those exact timestamps. You can also give Claude custom instructions for these apps. Tell it: "Every time I ask about Apple Notes, the latest or newest information is at the top of the note. Not the bottom." Claude saves this rule and remembers it for all future requests. ## Step 5: Put Claude to work in your browser You can hand control of a browser tab over to Claude to complete tedious web tasks. 1. Install the Claude extension for Google Chrome. 2. Open a webpage where you need to perform a task. For example, open a shopping cart checkout page on Overstock. 3. Go back to the Claude app and type: "Find a promo code for overstock and keep trying them until one is accepted." 4. Click **Allow for this website** when Claude asks for permission. An orange border appears around your Chrome tab. Claude takes over. It searches the web, copies codes, and tests them in the discount field one by one until it finds a match and applies the savings. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/682b8845315f312a430f5aad400365602a52a69aa42b45dec497be016a9904d0_f5c613fe.jpg) ## A few things to keep in mind Giving an AI access to your local files requires trust. If you ever want to revoke Claude's access to specific folders, it is very easy to do. - Open your Mac **System Settings**. - Go to **Privacy & Security** and select **Files & Folders**. - Find **Claude** in the list. - Toggle off access to locations like your **Desktop Folder** or **Downloads Folder**. ## You're all set You just turned a messy hard drive and a pile of manual tasks into an automated workflow. Start small with a single folder of screenshots. Once you are comfortable with how it handles your files, try linking a service like Apple Notes or Gmail to see how much daily busywork you can eliminate. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Turn Apple Notes and Notion into a Searchable AI Knowledge Base # How to Turn Apple Notes and Notion into a Searchable AI Knowledge Base You likely have information scattered everywhere. Half of your ideas live in Apple Notes, your project tracking happens in Notion, and your downloads folder is a mess of unnamed screenshots. Finding exactly what you need takes too much time. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** Claude Cowork changes that completely. It acts as an AI agent on your Mac, securely reading your local files and connecting directly to your favorite apps. You can ask it a question, and it will hunt down the answer across your entire system. Here is how to set it up and build your own searchable AI knowledge base. ## What you'll need - A Mac. - The Claude desktop app (you can grab it at claude.com/download). - A Claude Pro account, which costs $20 a month. ## Step 1: Connect your apps To make Claude smart about your specific data, you need to connect it to the places where you actually work. 1. Open the Claude desktop app and navigate to the **Cowork** tab in the center of the window. 2. Open your Claude **Settings**. 3. Look under the General area and click on **Connectors**. 4. Click **Browse connectors** to see the available integrations. Search for the apps you use most, like **Notion**, **Apple Notes**, and **Slack**. 5. Click **Configure** next to an app to set its permissions. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/296afdb27da5d5f56bf78deb97bf74e3d40a54c040f051061298c04ec35431b7_ef002fda.jpg) You have total granular control over what Claude can do. For example, you can set Read-only tools to **Always allow**. This lets Claude freely search your databases. For Write/delete tools, set them to **Needs approval**. This ensures Claude cannot create or delete pages without asking you first. ## Step 2: Query your new knowledge base Now that your apps are connected, you can treat Claude like a universal search engine for your brain. Head back to the **Cowork** tab and ask a specific question. If you have a massive Notion database for a podcast, you can simply type, "In what episode did we discuss the M4 Mac Studio?" Claude will search through your Notion workspace, find the correct show notes, and summarize the answer. It even provides a clickable link to open that exact page in Notion. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/6b8ab00bdc4d5011d95907668c7c76434df2337213306dec7f0dcf9cc1999d11_a12598c6.jpg) You can do the exact same thing with Apple Notes. You might ask, "What are the latest five shortcuts added to my Shortcuts Database note?" Claude will read your local Apple Notes and extract exactly what you asked for. Pro tip: Claude might initially read a note from bottom to top. If you format your notes differently, you can drop a plain text file into your working folder with specific instructions. Tell Claude, "Always look at the top of the note for the newest information." It will read those instructions and format its answers perfectly next time. ## Step 3: Let Claude organize your local files Your knowledge base is not just text documents. It includes your files. Claude Cowork can manage your messy desktop or downloads folder completely hands-off. 1. In the **Cowork** tab, click the **Work in a folder** button. 2. Click **Choose a different folder** and select the folder you want to organize. 3. Type a command like, "Rename the files on my desktop based on the file contents." ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/9dab5a8300b567456e561026ea7905148c3fa0b2f05043d7c8e12d86abef177b_e6a1e85e.jpg) Claude will look at every single file. If it finds a random screenshot of a website, it will read the text in the image and rename the file to match the website's title. It can even analyze the frames of video files to figure out what the video is about, renaming generic screen recordings to descriptive titles. ## Step 4: Automate web tasks with Google Chrome Sometimes the information you need is not in your notes. It is out on the web. You can give Claude access to your browser so it can take actions for you. 1. Install the Claude extension in **Google Chrome**. 2. Go back to Claude **Settings** and ensure the **Claude in Chrome** connector is active. 3. Give Claude a task in the chat window. For example, "Find a promo code for Overstock and keep trying until one is accepted." 4. A yellow border will appear around your Chrome window to show you Claude is in control. Claude will open new tabs, search for promo codes, return to your checkout page, and automatically test them until it finds one that works. It is entirely hands-off. You just watch it happen. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a3c537c6c49ba976fcc96cfccdb0416640fcd148baec34b78576b337a6ce06ad_13b4f865.jpg) ## A few things to keep in mind - **You might need Node.js.** For certain local file operations, Claude may tell you it needs Node.js installed. It sounds intimidating, but it is easy. Open the **Terminal** app on your Mac and simply paste the two installation commands Claude provides in the chat. - **You can revoke access anytime.** If you want to stop Claude from seeing a specific folder, open your Mac **System Settings**. Navigate to **Privacy & Security**, then click **Files & Folders**. Expand the **Claude** section and toggle off access to your Desktop, Documents, or Downloads. ## You're all set You just turned a scattered mess of apps and files into an intelligent, connected system. Instead of spending ten minutes clicking through folders and searching Notion databases, you can just ask Claude to find the answer. Try connecting a few more of your daily tools and see how much time you save. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Automate Web Tasks and Find Promo Codes with Claude Cowork's AI Browser # How to Automate Web Tasks and Find Promo Codes with Claude Cowork's AI Browser You do not need to be a programmer to use AI agents. Claude Cowork proves it. This tool connects directly to your local files, your favorite apps, and your web browser to do actual work for you. It uses the Model Context Protocol under the hood. But you do not need to know what that means to get massive value out of it. If you want to save time on tedious manual tasks, this guide will walk you through exactly how to put Claude to work on your Mac. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What you need to start Before you start automating your life, you need a couple of things set up. 1. Download the Claude app for Mac from claude.com/download. 2. Sign in with a Pro account. This costs $20 a month. 3. Open the app and click the **Cowork** tab at the top of the window. For some advanced local tasks, Claude might prompt you to install Node.js. It will give you a couple of terminal commands to run if you hit that requirement. ## Rename hundreds of files by their content We all have a desktop littered with generic files like "Screenshot 2024-02-20". Claude can fix that in seconds. It does not just look at the current file name. It actually opens the files, reads the text in the images, or watches the frames of your videos to understand the content. Here is how to run a bulk rename: 1. In the **Cowork** tab, click **Work in a folder**. 2. Select a target location like your Desktop and click **Open**. 3. Type a command like "Rename the files on my desktop based on the file contents". 4. Click **Let's go**. Claude will ask for access to the folder. Once approved, it scans the files and proposes new names. For example, it will easily identify a screenshot of a website and rename it to "Primary Technology Podcast Website Homepage". It even works on folders packed with random B-roll video clips. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a5e8b4fe1e75bc9de1b41217152ebab076a7c35e435553b95c1560e4eedb63fb_b4738811.jpg) ## Connect your daily apps for instant answers Claude Cowork gets incredibly powerful when you link it to your workspace. Open the Claude app and navigate to **Settings**. Look for the **Connectors** section in the sidebar. Here you can link services like Notion, Slack, Google Drive, Gmail, and Apple Notes. You do not need to deal with complex API keys. You just log in and authorize the connection. Once connected, you can set granular permissions. For Apple Notes or Notion, you might want to select the read-only option. If you want it to create pages or draft replies, you can set the write permissions to **Needs approval**. This ensures Claude cannot modify your data without your final say. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/ebae5d71769b23c036d042eb44b0b756c03b8c3810603792e84fd985747249c6_12b53b38.jpg) With your apps connected, you can ask plain-English questions to search across your entire digital life: - "Did I get any important emails from YouTube in the last month?" - "In what episode of Primary Technology did we discuss the M4 Mac Studio?" - "What were the chapter markers I shared in Slack for the latest podcast episode?" Claude will scan Gmail, search your Notion databases, and read your Slack messages to pull the exact answers and links you need. ## Automate web tasks with the agentic browser This is where the magic really happens. You can give Claude access to Google Chrome and have it navigate websites just like a human would. Let's say you are buying furniture on Overstock. You have an empty promo code box and no desire to scour the internet for coupons. 1. Install the Claude extension in Google Chrome. 2. Open the checkout page on Overstock. 3. Open the Claude app and go to the **Cowork** tab. 4. Type "Find a promo code for Overstock and keep trying until one is accepted". 5. Click **Let's go**. Claude will prompt you for browser access. Click **Allow for this website**. You will see an orange glow appear around your Chrome window. Claude takes over, opens new tabs, searches for codes, copies them, and pastes them into your checkout field one by one until it finds a winner. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f5c29cafd74cf2d27cc287c69391105ea5c07aec5e3ec93ee756ef0be59b4ab6_c79e8ada.jpg) You can use this same browser control for research. Ask Claude to "Use Chrome, look through my mentions on Threads, and find a post where someone is listening to Primary Technology in CarPlay." It will navigate to the social network, scroll through your notifications, and open the exact post for you. ## Keep your files private Giving an AI access to your local machine requires trust. If you ever want to revoke Claude's access to a specific folder, you can do that directly in macOS. 1. Open your Mac **System Settings**. 2. Click **Privacy & Security**. 3. Click **Files & Folders**. 4. Scroll down and expand the **Claude** entry. Here you will see every folder Claude has permission to view. Just toggle off the switch for your Desktop, Documents, or Downloads folder. You will need to quit and reopen Claude for the changes to take effect. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d10a3313d9966ad78e84bcb752ea87d5c4cd59a22024b3cd58a515f8a0240e0f_5e865034.jpg) ## You are ready to automate You just turned your Mac into a team of digital assistants. Whether you are renaming messy video folders, querying your Notion databases, or letting Chrome hunt down discounts while you sit back, Claude Cowork completely changes how you interact with your computer. Start small with a basic file rename, connect a few safe apps, and see how much time you can win back. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ### How to Automate Actions in Third-Party Apps like Bitly and Slack with Claude Cowork # How to Automate Actions in Third-Party Apps like Bitly and Slack with Claude Cowork AI is great at answering questions. But having it actually do your busywork is the real dream. Claude Cowork makes this a reality directly on your Mac. You don't need to be a programmer or understand how to set up complex local servers. You just connect your everyday apps and let the AI go to work. By the end of this guide, you will have Claude securely hooked up to your workspace and automating tedious tasks. **🏟️📣“Want weekly shortcuts like this? [Join the Shortcuts community](https://create.beard.fm/c/get-started?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fcreate.beard.fm%2F).** ## What you'll need Before you start connecting your apps, you need a couple of things ready to go. - The official Claude desktop app for Mac downloaded from claude.com/download. - An active Claude Pro account, which runs $20 a month. - The apps you want to connect, like Slack, Notion, or Bitly. ## Step 1: Connect your apps and set permissions You manage all your third-party integrations right inside the Claude app. The setup is quick and gives you total control over what the AI can see and do. 1. Open the Claude app and click the **Cowork** tab at the top of the window. 2. Open the app **Settings** and click on **Connectors** in the left sidebar. 3. Click **Browse connectors** to open the directory of available apps. 4. Search for the apps you use, like Slack, Notion, or Bitly, and click **Configure**. 5. Set your tool permissions. You can set read-only tools to **Always allow**. For actions like creating pages or sending messages, you can set the permission to **Needs approval** so Claude never writes anything without asking you first. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/448b2a66365a675069444745ab29c6f03a8595bff9603e9ab1bbec3688ee3538_4cbd0863.jpg) ## Step 2: Search across Slack and Notion Once your apps are connected, Claude becomes a universal search engine for your workspace. You no longer have to dig through endless channels and pages to find a specific link or note. You can ask Claude a highly specific question, like asking for the exact chapter markers shared for a recent podcast episode. Claude will start looking through your connected databases. If it checks Apple Notes and comes up empty, it automatically moves on to check Slack. Once it finds the right conversation, it pulls out the exact information you asked for. It even provides a clickable link that takes you directly to the original message in Slack or the exact page in Notion. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/406969f315491b9fe22c296d2426402eefee0bc5448e94667248cf3ac8aba622_9c106ba5.jpg) ## Step 3: Bulk generate Bitly links Claude can do more than just read your data. It can actively create things for you using the write permissions you configured earlier. If you have a messy list of raw iCloud shortcut URLs, you can drop the entire list into the chat. Just ask Claude to make short URLs out of them using Bitly and return a clean list with titles. It will process the raw URLs in bulk, generate the short links through your Bitly account, and hand you back perfectly formatted text. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/a5cb2e97ca2fdcae8836b461d43cf7227db3229ddc6ba2d4a6885cd2b749ce7f_2ed7ff7e.jpg) ## Step 4: Use the agentic Chrome browser Sometimes you need to interact with a website that does not have a native connector. Claude can handle this by taking control of your web browser. 1. Install the Claude extension in Google Chrome. 2. Go back to the **Cowork** tab in the Claude app. 3. Ask Claude to perform a web task. For example, you can open a checkout page in Chrome and ask Claude to find a working promo code. 4. When Claude asks for permission to use the browser, click **Allow for this website**. Claude will physically take over the active tab. You will see an orange border around the webpage indicating that the agent is working. It will search the web for codes, type them into the discount field, hit apply, and keep looping through options until one is successfully accepted. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/f5c29cafd74cf2d27cc287c69391105ea5c07aec5e3ec93ee756ef0be59b4ab6_c79e8ada.jpg) ## Watch out for these privacy settings You might connect a folder or app and later decide you want to restrict access. You have the freedom to revoke permissions at any time. If you gave Claude access to local files on your Mac, you handle those revocations in your system preferences, not the Claude app. Open your Mac **System Settings** and click on **Privacy & Security**. Scroll down to **Files & Folders** and expand the **Claude** section. You can simply toggle off access to your **Desktop Folder** or **Documents Folder**. The app will need to restart, and your local files will be off-limits again. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/d10a3313d9966ad78e84bcb752ea87d5c4cd59a22024b3cd58a515f8a0240e0f_5e865034.jpg) ## You're all set Claude Cowork turns your AI from a simple chatbot into an active participant in your daily workflow. You have successfully connected your external apps, set strict permissions, and automated tasks that usually require copying and pasting across multiple windows. Go experiment with a few more connectors and see how much time you can get back in your day. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() --- ## Interviews ### Busting Apple Myths and Uncovering 50 Years of Secrets with David Pogue # Busting Apple Myths and Uncovering 50 Years of Secrets with David Pogue Apple is surrounded by mythology. You have probably heard the stories. Steve Jobs was a tyrant who fired people in elevators. He threw a prototype iPod into a fish tank to prove it had too much empty space. But how much of that is actually true? Technology journalist David Pogue spent two years interviewing 150 people to find out. He set out to chronicle the company's entire half-century history. Along the way, he discovered that a lot of what we "know" about Apple is dead wrong.

Let's break down the biggest myths, the secret design decisions, and what Apple's history tells us about its future. ## The truth about Steve Jobs Steve Jobs is often painted as a difficult, volatile leader. Books and movies focus heavily on his temper. Pogue wanted to find the truth, so he asked the people who actually worked in the trenches with him. It turns out the most famous stories are completely fabricated. You might have heard that Jobs once asked an employee what they did while riding an elevator, and then fired them before the doors opened. That never happened. You might also know the story of the first iPod prototype. Legend says Jobs dropped it into a fish tank, pointed at the rising air bubbles, and demanded the engineers make it smaller. That is also totally false. Jobs was definitely intense. John Sculley described him as having bipolar tendencies. He could be tearing you apart one minute and praising you the next. But many employees shared a different perspective. His harsh feedback was a tool. He used it to push people past their own limits and get the best work out of them. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c7beda239d79300b553ab48f1cb92a77c94349acbe49b880cbe2cff76aafbe16_65200be4.jpg) ## Killing a bestseller on purpose Jobs possessed an incredible instinct for product timing. He could see around corners in a way no one else could. The transition from the iPod mini to the iPod nano is the perfect example. The iPod mini was a massive success. It was the first time Apple had ever sold a product by the hundreds of millions. Going into the holiday season, they could barely manufacture them fast enough. Then, Jobs decided to kill it. He told the team to scrap the mini and replace it with a new, smaller device called the nano. Everyone thought he was crazy. You do not kill your best-selling product right when it is peaking. But Jobs went ahead and ordered parts for 14 million nanos. He knew the flash memory inside the nano was the future. He was right. The nano sold out completely and dwarfed the success of the mini. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/20279c3cbc37b83eb407cf87732d16a9beec6f20e41b15138c8d91a8e11451e6_011e7ccd.jpg) ## Designing the invisible keyboard When Apple was developing the first iPhone, the lack of a physical keyboard was highly controversial. Phil Schiller, Apple's head of marketing at the time, fought hard for a BlackBerry-style physical keyboard. He insisted nobody would want to type on glass. Jobs held firm. He wanted a full screen. The software engineers held a competition to design the best on-screen keyboard. They tried some wild ideas. One prototype used keys the size of Tic-Tacs. Another used a triangle layout where you had to swipe into the corners. None of them worked well. The winning design is the one you still use today. It looks like a standard keyboard, but it has a hidden trick. The hit areas for the keys constantly change size in the background. If you type the letters T and H, the software knows the next letter is likely E or R. It invisibly expands the landing area for those letters. You can be sloppy with your thumbs, and the phone still guesses right. ## The Apple Car and the AI future People often criticize Apple for being late to the party. You see this today with the rollout of artificial intelligence. But being first has never been Apple's strategy. Apple did not invent the computer mouse. They did not invent Wi-Fi, digital cameras, or the MP3 player. Instead, they let other companies launch early, clumsy versions. Then Apple steps in, polishes the technology, and makes it accessible for the masses. They tried to push the envelope too far with Project Titan, the secret Apple Car initiative. Apple spent ten years and ten billion dollars trying to build a fully autonomous vehicle. They wanted a luxurious, self-driving living room with no steering wheel and no pedals. The technology simply was not ready. After a decade of shifting strategies and leadership changes, Apple finally pulled the plug. ![](https://otegsqwqycxxjehewzxi.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/published-media/13458f57-2fd9-4ec8-afa1-cd650b1394e6/media/c8a663a8b93e096b65a748c70fc7c917dc72b39264fc439373c191e6ce6a0388_7e633e61.jpg) They are taking their classic approach with AI. Competitors rushed out chatbots that hallucinate and make embarrassing mistakes. Apple is taking its time. When they demoed their new intelligence features, they focused on practical, everyday tasks. If you ask your phone when your mom is landing, it can scan your **Mail** and **Messages** apps, check the flight status, and calculate the driving time. It is not about being first. It is about being the most useful. ## Key takeaways - **The myths are mostly fake.** The famous elevator firing and fish tank stories never happened. Apple's extreme secrecy allowed these rumors to become accepted history. - **Steve Jobs pushed for greatness.** He could be incredibly difficult, but his intense feedback was designed to force engineers to do the best work of their lives. - **Apple is not afraid to pivot.** Killing the blockbuster iPod mini to launch the untested nano was a massive risk that paid off perfectly. - **Being second is a feature, not a bug.** Apple rarely invents new categories. They wait for the market to stumble, then they deliver the polished, consumer-friendly version. ## Over to you Apple's history is full of fascinating missteps and wild successes. The company looks very different today under Tim Cook, but the underlying philosophy remains the same. They focus on the details that users never even notice, like a shifting keyboard target. As they step into the AI era, it will be interesting to see if that patient strategy still holds up. ## Join the Shortcuts Community I love making simple Apple Shortcuts that save time and make your devices feel smarter. Want more? Join my Shortcuts community for the Database, Shortcut of the Week, live streams, and help from other members. [Sign up here](https://beard.fm/shortcuts) ![]() ---

Stephen Robles

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