Shortcuts is Apple’s automation engine, built into iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. It lets you connect apps, system features, and HomeKit devices into simple actions that run automatically, without you thinking about them.
One of the most useful starting points is an “Arriving Home” automation. It’s practical, easy to set up, and instantly shows the power of Shortcuts in daily life.
What Is an “Arriving Home” Automation
An “Arriving Home” automation uses your location to trigger actions when you reach home. Instead of opening apps or giving voice commands, everything happens in the background.
Typical actions include:
- Turning on lights
- Adjusting temperature
- Unlocking doors
- Playing music
- Disabling alarms
- Setting a Home scene
Once configured, it runs automatically every time you arrive.
How to Create Your First “Arriving Home” Automation
You create this automation using the Shortcuts app and the Home app.
Workflow
Shortcuts app > Automation > Create Personal Automation > Arrive > Choose Home location
After selecting your home address, you decide when it triggers. You can set a radius so the automation runs only when you’re truly close.
Next, choose what happens when you arrive.
Workflow
Arrive > Add Action > Choose actions or Home scenes
You can stack multiple actions together, creating a smooth arrival experience with no extra steps.
Using HomeKit Scenes With Shortcuts
Scenes make automations cleaner and easier to manage. Instead of controlling each device individually, a scene groups them.
For example, a “Welcome Home” scene might:
- Turn on entryway and living room lights
- Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature
- Unlock the front door
- Turn on a favorite playlist
Workflow
Home app > Add Scene > Select devices and settings
Once created, you simply trigger the scene inside your Shortcut automation.
Devices You Can Automate When Arriving Home
Shortcuts works best with HomeKit-compatible devices. Common categories include:
Lighting
Smart bulbs, light strips, and switches
Climate
Thermostats, fans, heaters, and air conditioners
Security
Smart locks, alarms, cameras, and sensors
Audio
HomePod, AirPlay speakers, and Apple TV
Power and Accessories
Smart plugs, garage doors, blinds, and outlets
Before buying any smart device, always confirm HomeKit compatibility. This ensures it works reliably with Shortcuts, Siri, and the Home app.
Tips for Better Automations
- Keep your first automation simple. One scene and one trigger is enough to start.
- Use scenes instead of individual actions. They’re easier to edit later.
- Avoid stacking too many actions at once. Complex automations are harder to debug.
- Test automations during the day before relying on them at night.
- Use time conditions if needed. You can limit actions to evenings or specific hours.
- Gradually expand. Add music, lighting changes, or security adjustments over time.
Next Steps After “Arriving Home”
Once you’re comfortable, Shortcuts opens the door to deeper automation.
You can create:
- Leaving Home automations
- Bedtime routines
- Morning wake-up flows
- Workout or commute automations
- Voice-triggered shortcuts with Siri
Shortcuts also integrates with third-party apps, letting automations extend beyond the home into work, fitness, and personal routines.
Why Shortcuts Changes How You Use Your Devices
Shortcuts isn’t about controlling devices. It’s about removing small decisions from your day.
When your home responds automatically, your devices fade into the background. Lights turn on, temperature feels right, music starts playing, and everything just works.
Starting with an “Arriving Home” automation is often enough to realize how powerful Shortcuts can be. From there, it’s easy to imagine a home that adapts to you, instead of the other way around.
