Location-based triggered reminder via Telegram Bot (iOS)

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.