How to Add Shortcut Actions for Android

Aside from typical widgets and shortcuts that can be added to Android screens, there is another hidden gem, shortcut actions. This allows you to add a very specific shortcut instead of just one to a general app.

I. Enabling Shortcuts

1. Much the same way you add app shortcuts and widgets, hold your finger down on an empty area of the screen and select shortcuts.

2. You will see a list of apps you can add a shortcut for, but at the very top is a green arrow that says ‘App actions’ next to it.

3. After selecting app actions, you will see a list of different options depending on which apps you have installed.

4. Some of the more general ones are book, which allows you to add a shortcut for a specific Google book; direct message, which allows you to add a text message shortcut for a specific person; music playlist, which allows you to add a shortcut to a specific playlist from Google music, and many more.

5. Some apps will add app actions shortcuts, such as Dolphin browser, WordPress and Friendcaster, among many others, so it’s helpful to check the app actions after adding a new app.

II. Managing Shortcuts

1. To delete a shortcut, long press the icon on the home screen and drag it to the trash can, which will be at the top or bottom depending on the device.

2. You can add app actions shortcuts to a folder, so that you can keep your screen free from shortcut clutter.

3. The app action shortcuts are the same size as regular shortcuts, so make sure you have adequate room on the screen before trying to add a new one.

1 thought on “How to Add Shortcut Actions for Android”

  1. ClockworkBastard

    That is so dtupid article, shame on the whole portal – Unlkr? Hah
    Looks like the author accidentally installed Holo Launcher, found the actions and decided that he didn’t noticed it before. What’s a dummy. Holo Launcher along with it’s super ability for actions was the only solution for stupid firmware bug of LG Optimus 2x Korean edition.

    Shame on that article, shame on you

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