imessage

Send and read iMessages and SMS via macOS Messages.app using the imsg CLI.

Updated Apr 19, 2026

Search Tags:#automation #messaging #communication #cli #macos #sms #imessage

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/gqf2008/hermez-ai --skill imessage-gqf2008

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imessage
Source: https://github.com/gqf2008/hermez-ai/tree/main/skills/apple/imessage
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/gqf2008/hermez-ai --skill imessage-gqf2008

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

macOS iMessage automation that lets you read and send iMessages and SMS from the terminal using the imsg CLI, reducing switching apps and manual steps.

Core Features & Use Cases

Read chat histories and view recent conversations from the command line.
List chats and send messages to phone numbers or Apple IDs using a simple CLI.
Control the messaging service (imessage, sms, or auto) for sending and manage attachments when supported.

Quick Start

Use imsg to read and send iMessages via macOS Messages.app from your terminal.

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 a macOS terminal or command line?▼

You can send iMessages from a macOS terminal by using the imsg CLI to automate Messages.app, sending texts directly to phone numbers or Apple IDs without launching the GUI application.

Can I read iMessage chat history and list conversations via macOS CLI?▼

Yes, you can read iMessage chat histories and list recent conversations via the macOS CLI, allowing you to view past message threads directly in your terminal environment.

How do I force an SMS instead of an iMessage when sending via automation?▼

You can force SMS delivery by using the service control feature in the imsg CLI, which allows you to explicitly specify sms, imessage, or auto when sending messages to contacts.

Do I need a specific Mac environment to automate Messages.app from the CLI?▼

Yes, automating Messages.app requires a macOS environment, as the imsg CLI relies on the native macOS messaging infrastructure to send and receive iMessages and SMS.

What are the limitations of sending iMessages through a macOS CLI tool?▼

Limitations include dependency on the native macOS Messages.app infrastructure, meaning automation requires an active Mac environment and cannot run independently on non-Apple platforms or servers.

Can I manage message attachments when sending iMessages from the terminal?▼

Yes, the imsg CLI supports managing attachments when supported, allowing you to include files in your automated iMessage and SMS workflows directly from the command line.