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How to Set Up iOS SMS Verification Code Sync

By integrating Apple Shortcuts with Octoclip, you can automate the process of copying SMS verification codes (OTPs) and instantly sync them to your computer, tablet, or other devices for hands-free pasting.

IMPORTANT

This guide requires iOS 16.0 or later and the official Apple Shortcuts app pre-installed on your iPhone.

Verification codes are sensitive

This automation copies your SMS codes into the system clipboard, so the Apple Shortcut reads the SMS and places the code on your clipboard. Octoclip then syncs that copied clipboard content to your other devices according to your sync settings. Only set this up on devices you trust, and clear or shorten history retention if you'd rather not keep codes around.

For Cloud Sync users: Cloud Sync content is end-to-end encrypted between your own devices — you set the encryption key, and it's stored in your device's secure keychain, not on any Octoclip server. Even so, treat verification codes with the same care you would any sensitive credential.

Prerequisites

Before starting, ensure that:

  1. Octoclip is installed and set up on your iOS device.
  2. Nearby Sync or Cloud Sync is configured and active so that copied content can sync to other devices.
  3. You have enabled running untrusted shortcuts in your system settings if prompted.

1. Download the Shortcut

Download the pre-configured iCloud shortcut to your device:

1

Get Shortcut

Click the Quick Copy SMS Shortcut Link on your iOS device.

2

Safari Redirect

Safari will open the iCloud link. Tap Get Shortcut.

3

Open Shortcuts App

The system will redirect you to the official Shortcuts app. Tap the Set Up Shortcut or Add Shortcut button.

4

Grant Permissions

Grant any requested permissions for the shortcut to copy text and run.

2. Configure Automatic Extraction Trigger

Set up a background automation that runs whenever a new verification SMS arrives:

1

Open Automation Tab

Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone and select the Automation tab at the bottom.

2

Create Automation

Tap the + (plus) icon in the top right to create a new automation.

3

Choose Message Trigger

Scroll down and choose Message as the trigger.

4

Set Message Parameters

Set the condition parameters:

  • Sender: Any Sender
  • Message Contains: Enter Verification (or common OTP keywords like Code, OTP, 验证码 depending on your typical message language).
  • Run: Select Run Immediately so it executes in the background without asking.
  • Notify When Run: Keep disabled to avoid duplicate notifications.
5

Tap Next

Tap Next.

6

Link Shortcut

In the search box, find and select the Quick Copy SMS shortcut you downloaded in Step 1.

7

Save and Finish

Tap Done to save the automation.

How to Verify Success

To confirm that your verification codes sync automatically:

  1. Request a verification SMS from any service (or have a friend text you a message containing the word "Verification").
  2. When the SMS arrives, the Shortcuts app will run in the background.
  3. Open your computer or target device and trigger a paste (⌘+V or Ctrl+V). The verification code digits should be pasted immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a verification code on my computer?

The workflow this guide sets up does exactly that. The Apple Shortcut reads the incoming SMS, extracts the code, and copies it to your iPhone's clipboard. Octoclip then syncs that clipboard content to your other devices (Mac, Windows PC, iPad, and so on), where it's ready to paste. You never have to pick up your phone to read the code.

Can I see a verification code from my phone on my Mac or Windows PC?

Yes — that's the end result of this setup. After the Shortcut runs and Octoclip syncs the code, it appears in your Octoclip clip history on your Mac or PC. Press the paste shortcut (⌘+V or Ctrl+V) and the code fills in. Both Nearby Sync (local network, no cloud) and Cloud Sync (works anywhere) are supported.

How do I use a two-step verification code on my PC?

Set up this guide on your iPhone. When a two-factor authentication (2FA) code arrives by SMS, the Shortcut copies it automatically and Octoclip syncs it to your Windows PC. Open the login form on your PC and paste as you normally would. The whole process — from SMS arriving to code ready to paste — typically takes just a few seconds.

Does Octoclip read my SMS messages?

No. Octoclip only syncs content that has already been copied to the clipboard. The Apple Shortcut is what reads the SMS and extracts the code; it then copies the code to the clipboard. From that point on, Octoclip handles only the clipboard content — it never accesses your messages directly.

Is it safe to sync verification codes through Cloud Sync?

Cloud Sync content is end-to-end encrypted between your own devices: each clip is encrypted on your device with a key you set, and only devices configured with that same key can decrypt it. Octoclip never sees your content or your key. That said, treat synced codes with the same care as any sensitive credential — clear your clip history after use if you prefer not to retain codes.

Troubleshooting

Untrusted Shortcut Warnings

If iOS warns you that the shortcut cannot be opened because it is untrusted:

  1. Go to iPhone Settings > Shortcuts.
  2. Enable Allow Untrusted Shortcuts. (Note: If this option is grayed out, run any random default shortcut in the Shortcuts app first, then check settings again).

Automation Not Triggering

Still Not Solved?

If the SMS is not syncing to nearby devices, please file a support ticket in the Community Forum: