imessage

Send and read iMessages from the macOS terminal using imsg.

Updated Apr 16, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jacardl/New-Radar --skill imessage-jacardl
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imessage
Source: https://github.com/jacardl/New-Radar/tree/main/backend/frameworks/hermes-agent/skills/apple/imessage
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jacardl/New-Radar --skill imessage-jacardl

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

People who frequently interact with iMessages want to control conversations from a terminal, enabling scripting and automation without opening Messages.app.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • List chats and read history from macOS Messages.app
  • Send messages to phone numbers or Apple IDs
  • Watch for new messages and integrate with automation workflows

Quick Start

Use imsg to read and send messages from the terminal by specifying a target chat or recipient.

Frequently Asked Questions about imessage

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I send and read iMessages from the macOS command line?

Control iMessages from the macOS CLI by installing the imsg tool via Homebrew, which enables listing chats, viewing history, and sending messages directly from the terminal.

Can I automate iMessage workflows using a CLI tool on macOS?

Yes, you can automate iMessage workflows by using the imsg tool to watch for new messages and integrate incoming texts into custom automation scripts without opening Messages.app.

Do I need special macOS permissions to control Messages.app from the terminal?

Yes, controlling Messages.app from the terminal requires macOS Full Disk Access and Automation permissions, a signed-in Messages.app account, and the imsg tool installed via Homebrew.

What is the best way to script SMS and iMessage sending without opening Messages.app?

The best way to script iMessage sending without opening Messages.app is using a CLI tool like imsg, which accepts phone numbers or Apple IDs as recipients for automated text messaging.

Why is my imsg CLI tool not working with macOS Messages.app?

The imsg CLI tool fails to work with macOS Messages.app if Full Disk Access and Automation permissions are not granted to the terminal, or if Messages.app is not actively signed in.