Apple Launches Beta Version of Siri Shortcuts App

BY Evan Selleck

Published 5 Jul 2018

Shortcuts app in iOS 12

Apple introduced a whole host of new features for iOS 12 earlier this year, and the company continues to build out beta versions of the software ahead of its public launch later this year.

Part of all the new content is what is called Siri Shortcuts. This feature will allow iOS 12 users in the future to set up multi-step processes to get through certain tasks faster. They take advantage of third-party apps, and can be activated with just a simple voice command via Siri. Siri Shortcuts are a natural progression from the Workflow app that Apple acquired back in 2017.

As part of the beta process, Appel has released the Siri Shortcuts app in a beta version as well. It is available through the TestFlight platform. Developers can request access to the new Siri Shortcuts app through the Developer Center. There is a “Request” option within TestFlight that will allow developers to get a shot at the beta app.

After requesting access, developers will need to wait to get approved. If they are, they will receive an email allowing them to download the app in its beta version.

Siri Shortcuts make it possible to handle a series of events automatically just with a simple command. So if you tell Siri something like, “I’m going home”, then the digital personal assistant can handle various tasks automatically. That command can open the Maps app for navigation, set your thermostat to a certain temperature, send a text message to let someone know you’re on your way, and more.

At the time of publication, the Siri Shortcuts app through TestFlight doesn’t support iCloud syncing, will have some missing actions, and more. But those features should be added in at a later date as the beta progresses ahead of its public launch.

Are you excited about Siri Shortcuts?