In the past few years, I have created many Apple shortcuts for downloading videos and other automation tasks. I plan to make an Android version of some of my shortcuts recently. Therefore, let’s explore the best Shortcuts alternatives for Android for automation.
These apps allow you to create custom flows, automate repetitive actions, and streamline your smartphone experience. Most of which are free to use.
About Apple Shortcuts
Apple Shortcuts, available on iOS devices, empower users to create personalized shortcuts that combine multiple actions into a single tap. Android users often envy the convenience of Apple Shortcuts. While Android offers some built-in automation features, users seek more flexibility and customization. Fortunately, several third-party apps cater to this demand.
Tasker: The Powerhouse of Android Automation
Tasker is a powerful app that acts as the Android equivalent to Apple’s Shortcuts. It allows you to create custom routines that trigger based on various contexts. With variables, conditions, and loops, Tasker a favorite among power users.
For example, you can create automation like silencing during meetings, turning on GPS when you leave the house, or playing a playlist when you connect to headphones.
However, Tasker’s learning curve can be steep. New users might find its interface overwhelming. But if you’re willing to invest time in mastering it, Tasker can automate almost anything on your Android device.
Action Blocks: Google Assistant’s Hidden Gem
Google Assistant’s Action Blocks allow you to create custom voice commands for specific actions. For example, saying “Movie Time” could dim your lights, launch Netflix, and order popcorn. These blocks are easy to set up, making them ideal for beginners.
Action Blocks seamlessly integrate with Google services, making them perfect for controlling smart home devices, sending messages, or launching apps. Plus, they’re accessible from the home screen or the Google Assistant app.
MacroDroid: Your Friendly Automation Companion
If you think Tasker is too complicated, you should give MacroDroid a try. MacroDroid is a user-friendly Shortcuts alternative that unlocks the power of automation for everyone.
MacroDroid lets you launch apps, send texts, adjust volume, and control various phone settings. You can set customized triggers run these automations. Additionally, You can add constraints to your macros for even finer control.
MacroDroid offers a library of pre-built macro templates to ease your automation journey. It is a perfect choice for beginners and automation enthusiasts alike. However, the ads on the free version are annoying.
Automate: The All-Rounder
Automate is my favorite Apple Shortcuts alternative for Android. It allows you to create custom flows by connecting various blocks. Whether you want to automate notifications, adjust settings, or trigger actions based on specific events, Automate provides a user-friendly interface to get the job done.
Automate bridges the gap between simple one-tap actions and complex multi-step routines with a user-friendly interface and a vast library of actions and triggers. You can easily export your flow to a file and share it with your friend or colleagues. .
Power Automate from Microsoft
Microsoft’s Power Automate extends its reach to Android devices. It integrates with popular services like Office 365, OneDrive, and SharePoint. Automate repetitive tasks, sync data, and stay productive on the go.
You need to sign in with your Microsoft account. Then you will see a ton of templates like Services, Button, Collect data, Email, etc. If you like the Power Automate Desktop, you should also get the mobile version.
However, sharing your custom flows with others requires a paid subscription.
Other Alternatives Worth Mentioning
While we’ve covered the major players, other options exist. IFTTT (If This, Then That) lets you create simple applets, but they are only web-based. If you use Samsung, you can use Bixby Routines for automation.
Conclusion: Choose Your Path to Efficiency
Explore these automation tools, and experiment with their features. Embrace the power of automation and reclaim precious moments in your day-to-day routine.
Let me know which you think is the best Shortcuts alternative for Android. I will use it to make Android version flows of some popular shortcuts.