SideRefresh iOS Shortcut: The Ultimate Guide to Automating App Refreshes 2025

Tired of manually refreshing your apps in SideStore every week? Let’s face it, it gets annoying—especially if you forget and suddenly one of your favorite sideloaded apps stops working. That’s exactly where the SideRefresh iOS Shortcut comes in handy. This clever shortcut automatically refreshes your apps so you don’t have to lift a finger. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—what it does, how to install it, set it up with automation, and make the most out of your SideStore experience.

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What Is the SideRefresh Shortcut?

How It Works

The SideRefresh shortcut connects with your SideStore installation to perform a silent, background refresh of your sideloaded apps. It’s like giving your apps a mini life extension—without needing to open SideStore every time.

Why It’s Useful

Sideloaded apps (apps installed outside the App Store) usually have an expiration period—typically 7 days. If you don’t refresh them before that, they stop launching. SideRefresh takes care of this by triggering automatic refreshes at scheduled times. No interruptions. No lockouts. No hassle.

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Understanding SideStore

What Is SideStore?

SideStore is a sideloading platform for iOS that allows users to install third-party apps without needing a computer after the initial setup. It leverages Apple’s development certificates and uses a technique known as Wi-Fi sideloading.

Key Features of SideStore

• Fully local sideloading (post-setup)
• Open source
• No paid developer account required
• Compatible with most recent iOS versions

SideStore vs AltStore

While both platforms let you sideload apps, SideStore works independently of a PC once configured. AltStore often relies on a computer connection. If you’re looking for more automation and less plugging in, SideStore is the better fit—and SideRefresh complements it perfectly.

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How to Install SideStore (Quick Overview)

Prerequisites

Before jumping into SideRefresh, you’ll need a working SideStore setup. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A Mac or PC (for the initial install)
• Your Apple ID (create a burner ID if privacy is a concern)
• Access to the internet and your iPhone

Basic Installation Steps

1. Visit the SideStore official docs.
2. Follow the instructions to install SideStore using the SideServer tool.
3. Enable necessary certificates and provisioning profiles.

✅ Tip: Always keep your SideStore updated. The latest release (v1.0) dropped on August 28, 2024.

Official Docs and Support

If you get stuck, the official SideStore documentation is top-notch. You can also hop into their Discord community for real-time help.

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How to Set Up the SideRefresh Shortcut

Requirements

Here’s what you’ll need before installing the shortcut:

• iPhone running iOS 15 or later
• SideStore already installed and working
• The Shortcuts app (pre-installed on iOS)

Installing the Shortcut

1. Visit the trusted link where the shortcut is shared (verify source legitimacy).
2. Tap “Add Untrusted Shortcut” (you’ll need to enable this in Settings > Shortcuts).
3. Name it something like SideRefresh for easy identification.

First-Time Configuration

When you first run SideRefresh:

• You might need to grant permissions for automation triggers.
• It may prompt you to locate SideStore or configure certain parameters.
• Customize the refresh behavior based on your preference.

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Setting Up Automations for SideRefresh

Using the Shortcuts App

To automate SideRefresh:

1. Open the Shortcuts app.
2. Go to Automation > Create Personal Automation.
3. Choose a trigger (like Time of Day or When Charging).
4. Select Run Shortcut → Choose SideRefresh.

Trigger Suggestions (Time of Day, Charging, etc.)

• Daily at 8 AM – ensures apps are always refreshed before you use them
• When Charging – good passive trigger during downtime
• On Wi-Fi Connection – can help avoid cellular usage

Best Practices for Automating Refreshes

• Keep it consistent. Pick a time when your phone is usually idle.
• Use “Ask Before Running: OFF” for seamless automation.
• Don’t over-trigger; once a day is more than enough.

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Troubleshooting SideRefresh

Common Issues and Fixes

Issue	Fix
Shortcut doesn’t run	Ensure permissions are granted
No effect on apps	Verify SideStore is working
Errors on run	Reinstall shortcut or check for updates

Verifying SideStore Status

You can manually open SideStore and check app expiration dates. If your shortcut is working, those dates should stay current without you doing anything.

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Is SideRefresh Safe and Private?

Shortcut Permissions Explained

The shortcut might request access to:

• Open apps (like SideStore)
• Perform background actions
• Run on specific conditions

These are normal and necessary. iOS will notify you transparently.

Transparency and Open Source Tools

Both SideRefresh and SideStore are community-developed. You can review the code or logic in the Shortcut itself. Nothing is hidden—what you see is what you get.

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Benefits of Using SideRefresh Regularly

Convenience and Peace of Mind

Imagine never being locked out of your favorite sideloaded app again. That’s the dream SideRefresh delivers.

No More Manual Refreshes

Forget reminders and sticky notes. Your refresh is automated, silent, and stress-free. That’s what real iPhone customization should feel like.

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Disclaimer and Third-Party Use Notice

Disclaimer: SideRefresh interacts with SideStore, a third-party tool not affiliated with Apple. Use of these tools may carry risks, such as app revocation or security vulnerabilities. This guide is for educational purposes only.

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Final Thoughts

SideRefresh is one of those shortcuts that once you install, you wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s simple, powerful, and saves you time. If you’ve already gone through the process of installing SideStore, adding this shortcut is like putting autopilot on your sideloading routine. Set it up once, and let your apps stay alive—automatically.

You can also use: Log Water Shortcut – Easily Track Water Intake

Frequently Asked Questions