App doesn't have a URL Scheme? Use this workaround! [iOS]

Learn how to use a custom Shortcut to open apps that don't have a native URL scheme. This workaround ensures one sec can always redirect you back to your target app.

Last updated 2 months ago

Article Content:

To redirect you back to a target app after an intervention, one sec usually needs a "URL Scheme" (a specific link address for that app). While many apps have these, some don't.

But don't worry—there is a clever workaround using the Apple Shortcuts app!

Step 1: Create a "Bridge" Shortcut

First, we need a simple shortcut that does nothing but open your target app.

  1. Open the Shortcuts app (Kurzbefehle) on your iPhone.

  2. Create a new Shortcut (tap the + in the top right). Note: This is a Shortcut, not an Automation!

  3. Add the action: Open App.

  4. Select the app you want to use (e.g., Yahoo Finance).

  5. Important: Give the Shortcut a clear name, like Open Yahoo Finance.

Step 2: Configure one sec

Now, we tell one sec to trigger this specific shortcut instead of trying to open the app directly.

  1. In one sec, proceed to add a custom app as you normally would.

  2. When asked for the URL Scheme, use the official Shortcuts App scheme:

    shortcuts://run-shortcut?name=Open%20Yahoo%20Finance

Step 3: The "Space" Trick

URL links cannot contain regular spaces. If your shortcut name has spaces, you must replace them with %20.

Example:

  • Shortcut Name: Open Yahoo Finance

  • URL for one sec: shortcuts://run-shortcut?name=Open%20Yahoo%20Finance

💡 Troubleshooting Tip

If the shortcut doesn't trigger, double-check that the name in the URL matches the name of your Shortcut exactly (including capitalization).