Convert Text to Rich Media in iOS 12 Shortcuts

Converting plain text into rich media in iOS 12 Shortcuts allows you to transform unformatted strings into styled rich text, formatted HTML, or standalone PDF files. By utilizing the app's native conversion actions, such as "Make Rich Text from Markdown" and "Make PDF," you can automate the creation of styled emails, formatted notes, and visual documents directly on your device without third-party tools.

Core Conversion Actions in iOS 12

iOS 12 includes dedicated actions designed to parse text syntax and render it as formatted media:

  • Make Rich Text from Markdown: Interprets standard Markdown tags (such as asterisks for bold or brackets for links) and renders them into formatted rich text.
  • Make Rich Text from HTML: Converts raw HTML code and inline CSS into rendered rich text.
  • Make PDF: Accepts rich text, HTML, or documents and compiles them into a finalized, exportable PDF document.

Step-by-Step: Converting Markdown Text to Rich Text

To convert plain text into rich text for emails or notes:

  1. Open the Shortcuts app on iOS 12 and tap Create Shortcut.
  2. Add a Text action to the canvas. Enter your plain text using standard Markdown formatting (e.g., # Header, **Bold text**, or [Link](https://example.com)).
  3. Search for and add the Make Rich Text from Markdown action directly below the Text action. The action automatically takes the text input and converts the Markdown elements into styled formatting.
  4. Add an output action to view or use the result:
    • Copy to Clipboard: Copies the formatted rich text so you can paste it into apps like Pages, Mail, or Notes.
    • Quick Look: Displays a preview window showing the rendered formatting.

Step-by-Step: Converting Plain HTML to a PDF Document

To convert raw HTML text into a visual, shareable media file:

  1. Add a Text action containing raw HTML tags (e.g., <h1>Title</h1><p style="color: blue;">Styled paragraph text.</p>).
  2. Add the Make Rich Text from HTML action to parse the code.
  3. Add the Make PDF action directly beneath the rich text block. This compiles the rendered HTML into an interactive document.
  4. Add a Share or Save File action to export the finished PDF media file to iCloud Drive or send it via Messages.