What is ifttt
Last updated: April 1, 2026
Key Facts
- IFTTT stands for 'If This Then That' and was founded in 2011 by Linden Tibbets and Aaron Parecki
- The platform integrates with over 700+ popular apps, including Gmail, Twitter, Slack, Google Drive, and smart home devices
- Users create 'applets' with simple trigger-action pairs, such as 'If I receive an email with a specific subject, then save the attachment to Google Drive'
- IFTTT operates on a freemium model, with a free tier offering basic automation and premium Pro plans unlocking advanced features
- Common use cases include social media management, smart home automation, data syncing, and notification management across multiple platforms
Overview
IFTTT is a web-based service designed to simplify automation for everyday tasks without requiring technical programming skills. The platform works on a simple formula: when one app or service performs an action (the 'trigger'), another app automatically performs a corresponding action (the 'action'). This enables seamless integration between services that don't traditionally communicate with each other.
How IFTTT Works
The core functionality revolves around applets - pre-built or custom automations created by users. Each applet consists of two main components: the trigger and the action. For example, you might set up a trigger that activates whenever you tweet about a specific topic, which automatically sends that tweet to your Slack channel. The platform evaluates these conditions continuously, checking multiple times per day to ensure triggers are captured and actions are executed promptly.
Supported Integrations
IFTTT has partnerships with major technology companies and services. Popular integrations include:
- Email services: Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail
- Social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn
- Cloud storage: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive
- Smart home: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Philips Hue, LIFX
- Project management: Trello, Asana, Notion
- Communication: Slack, Discord, Telegram
Pricing and Plans
The free version of IFTTT allows users to create multiple applets with unlimited triggers and actions, though with certain limitations on execution frequency. The Pro subscription removes these restrictions and provides additional features like multiple filters, advanced scheduling, and priority support. Teams can also subscribe to Pro plans for collaborative automation management.
Use Cases and Applications
Businesses and individuals use IFTTT for various purposes. Marketers automate social media posting and lead capture. Smart home enthusiasts create complex automation sequences across multiple devices. Content creators use IFTTT to publish content simultaneously across platforms. Remote workers automate notification management to improve productivity.
Related Questions
How do I create an IFTTT applet?
Sign up on IFTTT.com, click 'Create' to start a new applet, select a service for the trigger, specify the trigger condition, choose an action service, configure the action details, and activate the applet.
Is IFTTT free to use?
IFTTT offers a free tier that allows unlimited applets with standard execution frequency. The Pro plan provides additional features like advanced filters and faster execution at a monthly subscription cost.
What alternatives exist to IFTTT?
Popular alternatives include Zapier, Make.com (formerly Integromat), Automate.io, and Microsoft Power Automate, each offering different feature sets and integration ecosystems.
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Sources
- Wikipedia - IFTTTCC-BY-SA-4.0
- IFTTT Official Websiteproprietary