Activate “mad scientist” mode

Ever wished you could automate some of the mundane, repetitive tasks you perform on your computer? Like, imagine pushing a button to open a specific website, unmute yourself on Zoom, or close all open windows on your screen except one.

Well, all iPhone and iPad users can do exactly that. For free.

🎛️ How it works… Yesterday, tech company Elegato released the Stream Deck Mobile 2.0, an app that essentially turns your iPhone or iPad into a six-button control panel. You can program each button to perform a task, or series of tasks, on your computer (or smart device in your home).

For instance, tap just one button and you could:

• Automate a multi-step process: Convert an email into a task within your task manager.
• Kick-start a meeting: Automatically switch your Slack status to “in a meeting,” open Zoom, and mute your microphone.
• Control your smart home: When 5pm hits, turn your living room lights on, start playing your “chill time” playlist on Spotify through your smart speaker, and shut off your computer.

🔴 Real buttons only: For anyone craving the tactile sensation of interacting with anything that isn’t your phone, the Elegato Stream Deck also comes in a sits-on-your-desk version with real buttons you can mash to your heart’s content.