imessage

Send and read iMessage and SMS messages via the imsg CLI on macOS.

Updated Jul 3, 2026

Search Tags:#messaging #cli #macos #sms #imessage #imsg #send message

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/decniner/HermesP1 --skill imessage-decniner

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imessage
Source: https://github.com/decniner/HermesP1/tree/main/.hermes-backup/skills/apple/imessage
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/decniner/HermesP1 --skill imessage-decniner

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires imsg.

What problem does it solve? It lets you send, read, and monitor iMessage and SMS conversations from the command line on macOS without manually opening Messages.app. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Send Messages: Deliver text and file attachments to phone numbers or Apple IDs, with control over iMessage vs SMS delivery. - Read History: List recent chats and retrieve conversation history with optional attachment metadata in JSON format. - Watch for Replies: Monitor a specific chat for incoming messages in real time. - Use Case: A user asks to text a family member; the assistant finds the contact's chat, confirms the recipient and message, then sends it via imsg. ## Quick Start Ask the assistant to send an iMessage saying you'll be late to a specific contact, and confirm the recipient before it sends.

Frequently Asked Questions about imessage

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I send an iMessage from the command line on macOS?▼

Use the imsg CLI with the send command, specifying the recipient phone number or Apple ID and the message text. You can attach files with the file flag and force iMessage or SMS delivery with the service flag.

How do I read iMessage history from the terminal?▼

Run imsg chats to list recent conversations, then use imsg history with a chat ID to retrieve messages. Adding the json flag returns structured output, and the attachments flag includes file metadata.

What permissions does imsg need on macOS?▼

imsg requires Full Disk Access for the terminal, granted in System Settings under Privacy, plus Automation permission for Messages.app when first prompted. Messages.app must also be signed in to an Apple ID.

Can imsg send SMS instead of iMessage?▼

Yes, pass the service flag set to sms to force SMS delivery, or imessage to force iMessage. The default auto mode lets Messages.app decide based on the recipient's capabilities.

What are the limitations of sending messages with imsg?▼

imsg only works on macOS with Messages.app configured and cannot manage group chat membership. Bulk messaging is discouraged, and every send should be confirmed with the user to avoid messaging wrong recipients.