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.
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.
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. Define Trigger: Configure the sensor's trigger to when the door Opens. You can also specify Time or People conditions if desired.
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.
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).
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.
5. Save Automation: Tap the checkmark icon to save and name your advanced automation (e.g., 'Kids Bath Off').
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.
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).
3. Define Trigger: Set the trigger to when the sensor Opens.
4. Convert to Shortcut: Scroll down and tap Convert To Shortcut.
5. Add Conditional Notification: In the Shortcuts editor:Remove the default "Set Scenes And Accessories" action.Add a Wait action (e.g., 60 seconds).
Add a Get State action for your Mini Fridge Contact Sensor State.
Add an If action. Set the condition to: If Contact Sensor State is Open (change 'Number' to 'Name' and type 'Open').
Under the If block, add a Get Contents of URL action. Paste the Webhook URL copied from Pushcut.
6. Save Automation: Tap the checkmark icon to save.
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.
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.