How To Track Iphone Lost With Shortcuts, Phone Send Location
Take advantage of the Shortcuts feature to track lost iPhones
iPhone users now have an additional option to track lost devices, namely by utilizing the Shortcuts feature. With certain settings, the iPhone can take photos using the front or back camera, and send the current location when receiving messages with certain keywords. This trick is very useful in emergency situations, such as when the phone is stolen or lost.
The automation feature in the shortcuts application is the key to this trick. If the phone is lost, the owner only needs to send a message containing a predefined password. After the message is received, the system will immediately run a series of commands automatically.
Setting steps
Here are the steps for setting the feature:
- Open the Shortcuts application and select the Automation menu.
- Tap Create Personal Automation.
- Select the Message option, then specify the keyword as a trigger, for example “HP is lost”.
After that, add the following actions in order:
- Set low power mode → ON
- Take Photo → Front Camera (Preview Off). Users can also add back camera options if desired.
- Send Message → to the destination number (include camera photo)
- Get current location
- Send Message → to destination number (include current location information)
Make sure the Automation option is set to Run Immediately to run automatically without additional consent. The Notify When Run option can be disabled if you want to minimize on-screen notifications.
the results obtained
In the trial, when a predefined keyword—in this example “HP lost”—sent to a lost device, the device automatically displays a notification that reads “Shortcuts Running Your Automation”. Less than a minute, the device immediately sent a photo from the front camera, followed by a message containing the current address or location to the number that had been set.
Sending information is not limited to SMS or iMessage. Users can also set automation to send photos and locations via messaging applications such as WhatsApp or via email. The destination number or address is also flexible, it can be to another personal number, parents, spouse, or trusted friends.
Additional security
However, users are still advised to enable built-in security features such as Find My for additional protection. This feature allows tracking, remote locking of the device, to data deletion when needed.
With the combination of shortcuts and Find My features, iPhone users can feel more secure and calm in dealing with situations of lost or stolen phones. This technology proves that innovation continues to evolve to provide practical and effective solutions for users.
