iOS 16 Shortcuts app adds over 25 new actions and features
The launch of iOS 26 marks a significant evolution in Apple's Shortcuts app, introducing over 25 new actions that greatly enhance its functionality. This updated app not only improves user experience but also empowers users to automate tasks more efficiently. Let’s explore the new features and improvements in detail.
New features in the Shortcuts app for iOS 26
This year, the Shortcuts app has experienced a notable upgrade due to the integration of large language model (LLM)-based actions and enhanced automations, particularly for Mac users. The new capabilities mean that automating daily tasks has never been easier or more powerful.
Apple has also taken the initiative to publish a comprehensive list of the changes to Shortcuts, which is quite rare for app updates. This transparency allows users to fully understand and utilize the new features available.
Here are the significant new actions that users can now access:
New Actions Overview
| App | New Actions |
|---|---|
| Freeform | Add Files to Board |
| Image Playground | Create Image |
| Find Message | |
| Measure | Launch Measure |
| Messages | Find Message, Find Conversation |
| Photos | Rename Album, Search Photos, Create New Memory, Filter Library |
| Reminders | Show Quick Reminder |
| Screen Time | Get App & Website Data |
| Sports | Get Upcoming Sports Events |
| Stocks | Delete Symbol from Watchlist, Add Symbol to Watchlist |
| Use Model | Use Model |
| Visual Intelligence | Open Visual Intelligence |
| Voice Memos | Find Voice Recording |
| Weather | Add Location to List, Remove Locations from List |
| Writing Tools | Adjust Tone of Text, Make List from Text, Make Table from Text, Proofread Text, Rewrite Text, Summarize Text |
Enhanced Actions and Improvements
Alongside the new actions, several existing features have received updates that enhance their usability:
- Calculate Expression: This feature now supports evaluating expressions that include various units such as currency conversion rates, temperature, and distance.
- Create QR Code: Users can now customize the color and style of generated QR codes.
- Date: Ability to specify holidays has been added.
- Find Contacts: Enhanced filtering options by relationships.
- Transcribe Audio: Performance improvements for better accuracy.
- Show Content: Can now display scrollable lists for items like calendar events and reminders.
Using Shortcuts: A Guide to Adding Actions on iPhone
Adding actions in the Shortcuts app is straightforward and intuitive. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:
- Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone.
- Tap the "+" button to create a new shortcut.
- Select "Add Action" to browse through the available actions.
- Choose the desired action from the list, such as "Create Image" or "Find Message."
- Customize the action parameters as needed.
- Save the shortcut and give it a name for easy access.
How to Remove Shortcuts on iOS
If you ever find that you no longer need a shortcut, removing it is just as simple. Here’s how:
- Open the Shortcuts app.
- Locate the shortcut you wish to delete.
- Long-press on the shortcut icon.
- Select "Delete" from the context menu.
Exploring Automation on the Mac with Shortcuts
The integration of Shortcuts into MacOS brings a new level of automation for Mac users. You can create workflows that are fully customizable, making repetitive tasks easier. This includes:
- Automating file organization.
- Sending scheduled emails.
- Managing reminders and calendar events.
Mac users can now benefit from the same robust automation features that iOS users have enjoyed.
Discovering More Resources
For those looking to dive deeper into the capabilities of Shortcuts in iOS 26, there are numerous resources available. Check out this informative video that showcases the new features:
By taking advantage of these new features and improvements, users can enhance their productivity and streamline daily tasks effortlessly. Whether you're managing your photos, reminders, or even sports events, the Shortcuts app in iOS 26 offers tools that cater to a variety of needs.
Best iPhone Accessories to Enhance Your Experience
To complement your iPhone experience and maximize the utility of the Shortcuts app, consider these top accessories:
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