Automatically Save iPadOS Screen Captures to a Files Folder?

I’d like to find a way to automatically save a screen capture in iPadOS (17) to a folder in the files application. I frequently have a need to take multiple screen captures that I want to save for future reference. I don’t want them to go to the photos app, but rather, to a specific folder in Files that I can then reference later. I know this is possible through the share sheet (capture screen, open the thumbnail, open share sheet, select save to files, select folder than save, then go back to the screen shot and delete). That’s too cumbersome for my needs — I want to take the screen capture and just have it end up in the folder so I can go on to the next. I don’t see a way to do this, but perhaps this is something that could be done with a shortcut? Looking for ideas or suggestions. Thanks.

iPad Pro (5th generation)

Posted on Sep 20, 2023 12:30 PM

Reply
3 replies

Sep 20, 2023 4:13 PM in response to Dale Gardner

Whilst triggering your Shortcut from an external keyboard isn't natively supported, you can easily trigger shortcuts using AssistiveTouch function:


Settings > Accessibility > AssistiveTouch >

  • Assistive Touch - set to ON
  • [Custom Actions] - select the preferred trigger - and assign your Shortcut



As an alternative, you might even consider creating a Custom Gesture.

Sep 20, 2023 3:59 PM in response to LotusPilot

Thank you, that’s helpful. I was able to create a relatively simple shortcut that captures the screen and saves the resulting file to a folder locally. Now I need a way to invoke the shortcut via a keyboard command (I don’t want to switch away from the application I’m capturing to click on the shortcut itself, and Siri via voice isn’t an option for this particular use case. I’ve tried a couple of things through accessibility options, but I’m not sure that’s working quite right.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Automatically Save iPadOS Screen Captures to a Files Folder?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.