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.

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.

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.

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.