What are Shortcuts exactly ? In a nutshell , they are mini apps that can combine a veriaty of functionalities to create a specific task within the existing iOS system . I ’ ll be honest and have been intinidated to take on the task of understanding these , but am happy to have explored what possibilities are available , and how I can adapt these for my performance need .

Since these can become quite complex arrangements of multiple combined commands , my first objective was to find the most basic operation to access . What ’ s that you ask ? Simply opening something . What ? A notification . It ’ s small , it ’ s discreet , we get them all the time so unassuming and we can access them via other compatible devices such as the Apple Watch .

This said , the first step in the sequence of commands is creating a series of Shortcuts , 52 in fact in the case where we want to create a memorized deck effect , that will do simply one thing . Display a card value or a card position . Extremely minimal in regards to task complexity . First , we will create a Shortcuts folder called ‘ Any Card ’, and create a generic Shortcut that will open a notification . The information displayed when the notification is prompted is the Shortcuts name among other things , but we strictly want the name in our case . No alarm sounds , no bells , just a text notification that will disappear after a few moments and reappear on cue if needed .

Once our first generic Shortcut is created , we duplicate these to have a library of 52 in total . Following this , we will have the task of renaming these with the card values of the entire deck . Creating the first one takes but a minute , duplicating these a few more , then renaming another couple for a rough total of approximately 15 mins to set up your entire library .

Of course , the first few times will come with some delays to carefully comprehending the tasks , but I assure you will become something quick and easy to craft to your needs going forward . Once your ‘ Any Card ’ library is complete , we will proceed with our custom vocal commands !

72 JUNE | 2024