How to Set Up the Action Button

Before diving into the various uses of the Action Button, let's go over the steps to link it with the Shortcuts app.

1. Open the Settings app and navigate to the Action Button settings.
2. Scroll to find the Shortcuts option and tap it.
3. This will direct you to the Shortcuts app, where you can select or create a shortcut to assign to the Action Button.

With that set up, let’s explore some impressive functionalities!

Section 1.1: Replace Siri with PrimeGPT

For those familiar with ChatGPT, this shortcut allows you to substitute Siri with PrimeGPT using the Action Button. To install it, simply click the link below on your iPhone, which will take you directly to the Shortcuts app for easy setup.

Source: Routine Hub

PrimeGPT surpasses Siri in several aspects, including the ability to access your clipboard, transcribe text, summarize images, and even create playlists in Apple Music. Although some configuration is required, the benefits are substantial once you enable your desired features.

Section 1.2: Create Quick Notes or Reminders

For avid note-takers, this shortcut is invaluable. It allows you to instantly launch a new note without unlocking your iPhone or searching for the Notes app.

To set it up:

1. Go to Settings → Action Button and select Shortcuts.
2. Choose the "New Note" shortcut.

Now, whenever you press the Action Button, a new note window will appear, ready for your thoughts.

Similarly, you can set this up for the Reminders app by following the same steps, allowing quick access to your task lists.

Section 1.3: Use Google Assistant

If you're a fan of Google Assistant, this setup lets you easily access it via the Action Button:

1. Install Google Assistant from the App Store.
2. Navigate to Settings → Action Button, select Shortcuts, and then "Open App."
3. Search for and select Google Assistant.

Now, pressing the Action Button will launch Google Assistant, making it a breeze to use.

Section 1.4: Control Smart Home Devices

For those with Apple HomeKit devices, this feature is a game-changer. You can set shortcuts to control your smart home devices with a simple press of the Action Button.

To create this automation:

1. Open the Shortcuts app and go to the Automation tab.
2. Click the + icon to create a new automation based on your preferences.
3. Convert this automation into a shortcut for the Action Button.

You can customize the shortcut to trigger specific actions, such as turning on lights or controlling your garage door.

Section 1.5: App-Specific Shortcuts

The Shortcuts app allows you to create app-specific actions. Rather than just launching an app, you can directly access specific features within that app.

To create one:

1. Open the Shortcuts app and navigate to App Shortcuts.
2. Select your desired app and the specific action you want to trigger.

This customization can significantly streamline your workflow.

Section 1.6: Actions Within Actions

A versatile app called Actions allows you to assign different functions to the Action Button depending on your iPhone's orientation.

For example, you can set it to open the Camera app in landscape mode and play music in portrait mode. The possibilities are nearly limitless, and experimenting can yield unique shortcuts tailored to your needs.

Section 1.7: Add Songs to Apple Music Playlist

If you're an Apple Music user, you can quickly add a currently playing song to a playlist with the Action Button.

To set this up:

1. Open the Shortcuts app and create a new shortcut.
2. Add the "Get Current Song" action followed by the "Add to Playlist" action.

Save this shortcut, and you can easily add songs to your playlist with a simple press.