iOS Setup Guide
Block Distracting Apps with iPhone Shortcuts
When you open YouTube, Instagram, or other distracting apps, iOS Shortcuts automatically redirects you to As You Intend — creating friction.
What this does
When you open a distracting app (e.g. YouTube) on your iPhone, an iOS Shortcut automation automatically redirects you to the As You Intend dashboard. This creates friction at the moment you open the app, naturally reducing unintended usage.
Open the Shortcuts app
Find and open the "Shortcuts" app on your iPhone. It comes pre-installed. If missing, download it free from the App Store.
Tap the "Automation" tab
Tap the "Automation" tab at the bottom of the screen.
Tap "+ New Automation"
Tap the "+" button in the top-right corner to create a new automation.
Select "App" as trigger
Search for "App" and select it. Choose the app you want to block (e.g. YouTube), then select "Is Opened".
Add "Open URL" action
Add the "Open URL" action and enter this URL:
https://www.asyouintend.com/dashboard?lang=enTurn OFF "Ask Before Running"
Disable "Ask Before Running" in the automation settings so the redirect happens instantly without confirmation.
Done! Test it
Open YouTube — it should redirect to As You Intend. Repeat this process for each app you want to block.
Recommended apps to block
Notes
- Requires iOS 16 or later.
- You need to set up each app individually.
- You can disable automations anytime in Settings > Shortcuts > Automations.
- Internet connection required when the shortcut runs.