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Location-Based Triggered Reminder via Telegram Bot (iOS)

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Created by: Roninimous || roninimous

Roninimous

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Last update 4 months ago

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This workflow integrates iOS Shortcuts with n8n to create a simple, automatic location-based reminder system. When the user arrives at a specified location, an automation in the Shortcuts app sends a webhook trigger to n8n. If the trigger matches predefined date and time conditions, n8n sends a Telegram message reminder to the user.

This is perfect for repetitive weekly tasks like taking out the bins, customized with conditions for day and time.

Key Features

  • Location-Based Trigger: Uses iOS Shortcuts automation to start the workflow upon arrival at a specific location.
  • Time and Day Validation: Logic in n8n checks current weekday and time to ensure reminders are sent only when appropriate.
  • Telegram Integration: Sends reminders directly to your Telegram account using your bot.
  • Minimal Setup: Uses native iOS and simple webhook setup in n8n.

How It Works

  1. iOS Shortcut Trigger: When the user arrives at a designated location, the iOS shortcut sends a GET request to the n8n webhook.
  2. n8n Webhook Node: Receives the request and triggers the workflow.
  3. Conditional Check: An IF node checks if the current time is after 4:00 PM and it's a Wednesday (or any other configured condition).
  4. Telegram Node: If the condition passes, n8n sends a message like "Don't forget to take the bins out." to your Telegram bot.

Setup Instructions

  1. Create a Telegram Bot:

    • Use @BotFather to create a bot and obtain your bot token.
    • Add Telegram API credentials in n8n with your bot token.

  2. Setup iOS Shortcut:

    • Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone.
    • Go to the Automation tab → Tap + → Create Personal Automation.
    • Choose Arrive → Select a location.
    • Add action: Get Contents of URL.
      Method: GET, URL: your n8n Webhook URL (e.g. https://n8n.yourdomain.com/webhook/your-path).
    • Save the automation. (You can also test the automation by pressing the Play button)

  3. Import Workflow into n8n:

    • Load the provided workflow JSON.
    • Set your webhook path and Telegram credentials.
    • Adjust the logic in the IF node to your usecase. In my case, I check if today is Wednesday and after 4 PM until Midnight.

  4. Expose n8n Publicly: Ensure your n8n instance is publicly accessible via HTTPS so the shortcut can reach it.

Customization Guidance

  • Change Reminder Message: Modify the text inside the Telegram node to suit different reminders.
  • Add More Conditions: Extend the logic to support more days, hours, or different trigger messages.
  • Add Multi-Channel Output: Send reminders via email, SMS, or Slack in addition to Telegram.
  • Use More Triggers: Expand to other types of shortcut triggers (e.g. NFC tag, leaving location, time of day).

Security and Implementation

  • Webhook Protection: Avoid using easily guessable webhook URLs.
  • Secure Telegram Token: Store your bot token securely in n8n credentials, not in plain workflow text.
  • Limit Shortcut Scope: Only trigger the shortcut at trusted locations or with secure iCloud sync.
  • Automation Permissions: Ensure your iPhone allows shortcut automations to run without confirmation.

Benefits

  • Automates repetitive location-based reminders without user interaction.
  • Provides a lightweight, native solution using iOS and n8n with no extra apps.
  • Keeps you on track for routine tasks like garbage days, medicine reminders, or arrival-based tasks.
  • Easily extendable for multiple locations or trigger conditions.