How to Set Up Apple Shortcuts for SMS Forwarding

Configure iOS Shortcuts automation to enable automatic SMS message forwarding.

Introduction

SMS Forwarder uses Apple’s Shortcuts automation to detect incoming messages and trigger forwarding. This guide walks you through the one-time setup process.

Step 1: Open the Shortcuts App

Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. If you don’t have it, download it free from the App Store.

Step 2: Create an Automation

Tap the Automation tab at the bottom
Tap New Automation (or the + button)
Search for and select Message
Choose is Received
Set the sender to Anyone (or a specific contact for filtered forwarding)
Tap Next

Step 3: Add the SMS Forwarder Action

Tap New Blank Automation
Search for SMS Forwarder in the actions
Select the Forward Text Message action
Configure the message body and sender parameters
Tap Done

Step 4: Disable Confirmation

For fully automatic forwarding:

Make sure Ask Before Running is turned OFF
Set Notify When Run based on your preference
Tap Done

Your automation is now active. Every incoming SMS will be automatically forwarded to your configured destinations.

Advanced Tips

Multiple automations: Create separate automations for different senders with different forwarding rules.
Time-based: Combine with time conditions to only forward during specific hours.
Conditional logic: Use Shortcuts’ built-in conditions to filter messages before forwarding.

Troubleshooting

Automation not triggering? Make sure the Shortcuts app has notification permissions and the automation is enabled.
Permission prompts? Ensure “Ask Before Running” is turned off for seamless automation.
Shortcuts app missing? Re-download it from the App Store — it’s a free Apple app.
iOS version? Shortcuts automations require iOS 15 or later.