imessage

Send and receive iMessage and SMS messages via macOS Messages.app.

Updated Mar 25, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/afel6/scal-ai-pipeline --skill imessage-afel6
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imessage
Source: https://github.com/afel6/scal-ai-pipeline/tree/main/hermes_skills_library/apple/imessage
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/afel6/scal-ai-pipeline --skill imessage-afel6

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Provide a controlled terminal-based interface to read and send iMessage and SMS messages on macOS, removing the need to switch to the Messages app for quick conversational tasks and automation.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Send individual iMessage or SMS messages to phone numbers or Apple IDs and choose service preference (iMessage, SMS, or auto).
  • Read and search chat listings, view conversation history including attachment metadata, and watch chats for new messages.
  • Use Case: Quickly confirm and send a single time-sensitive notification (for example: notify a family member or colleague you'll be late) while preserving explicit user confirmation and attachment path validation.

Quick Start

Send an iMessage to +1555123456 saying I'll be late and ask me to confirm before sending.

Frequently Asked Questions about imessage

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I send iMessages from the macOS Terminal?

You can send iMessages from the macOS Terminal by using the imsg CLI to interact with the Messages app. This requires a signed-in macOS account, the imsg Homebrew package, and Full Disk Access permissions to send messages to phone numbers or Apple IDs.

Can I read SMS and iMessage conversation history via command line?

Yes, you can read SMS and iMessage conversation history via command line. The tool lists chats, retrieves conversation history including attachment metadata, and watches for new messages directly through the macOS Messages app integration.

Do I need special macOS permissions to automate text messages?

Yes, automating text messages requires granting Full Disk Access and Automation permissions to your terminal. These macOS permissions are necessary for the command line interface to interact with the Messages app and access chat data.

What is the best way to send an iMessage with an attachment from a script?

The best way to send an iMessage with an attachment from a script is using the imsg CLI. It validates attachment paths and sends files to phone numbers or Apple IDs, while allowing explicit user confirmation before executing the send action.

Why does my iMessage automation fail to send messages on macOS?

Your iMessage automation may fail if macOS permissions like Full Disk Access and Automation are not enabled for the terminal. Additionally, the imsg CLI must be installed via Homebrew and the macOS user account must be actively signed in to Messages.

Can I choose between iMessage and SMS when sending from Terminal?

Yes, you can choose between iMessage and SMS when sending from Terminal. The tool allows you to specify a service preference for iMessage, SMS, or automatic selection when sending messages to valid phone numbers or Apple IDs.