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imessage

Read and send iMessages and SMS via the imsg CLI on macOS.

2|Updated Apr 25, 2026
Search Tags:#automation#messaging#cli#macos#sms#imessage
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/john-data-chen/hermes-agent-backup --skill imessage-john-data-chen
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imessage
Source: https://github.com/john-data-chen/hermes-agent-backup/tree/main/skills/apple/imessage
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/john-data-chen/hermes-agent-backup --skill imessage-john-data-chen

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill enables seamless iMessage and SMS messaging from the terminal on macOS, allowing automation and centralized workflows without switching apps.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Read chats and view history: fetch list of chats and read conversation history from Messages.app.
  • Send messages to numbers or Apple IDs: compose and dispatch text messages and iMessages with optional attachments.
  • Automation-friendly workflows: integrate with scripts to automate routine reminders or confirmations.

Quick Start

Install imsg, sign in to Messages.app, and start reading chats or sending messages using the imsg CLI.

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?▼

To send iMessages from the macOS terminal, use the imsg CLI to compose and dispatch texts to phone numbers or Apple IDs. The skill validates recipients and content, applying safety prompts before sending messages through the Messages app.

Can I read iMessage chat history using a command line interface?▼

You can read iMessage chat history using a command line interface by running the imsg CLI on macOS. The skill fetches a list of active chats and views conversation history directly from the Messages app database.

Do I need the Messages app signed in to automate SMS messaging via CLI?▼

Yes, you need the Messages app signed in to automate SMS messaging via CLI. The skill requires macOS with an active Messages app session and the imsg CLI installed to validate recipients and dispatch texts successfully.

What is the best way to automate routine text reminders on macOS?▼

The best way to automate routine text reminders on macOS is integrating the imsg CLI into your shell scripts. This skill enables automation-friendly workflows to dispatch iMessages or SMS to specific numbers without manual app interaction.

Are there limitations when sending iMessages with attachments via CLI?▼

When sending iMessages with attachments via CLI, limitations include requiring valid recipient phone numbers or Apple IDs and passing content validation. The skill applies safety prompts before sending to prevent unintended message dispatch.

Does the iMessage CLI skill support sending messages to Apple IDs?▼

Yes, the iMessage CLI skill supports sending messages to Apple IDs. It validates the provided Apple ID or phone number against the Messages app database before dispatching the text or iMessage content with optional attachments.

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