imessage

Read and send iMessages and SMS from the macOS command line.

Updated May 21, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/samlaggz/hermes-agent-sam --skill imessage-samlaggz
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imessage
Source: https://github.com/samlaggz/hermes-agent-sam/tree/main/backup/skills/apple/imessage
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/samlaggz/hermes-agent-sam --skill imessage-samlaggz

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Read and send iMessages and SMS from a command-line interface on macOS, enabling seamless automation and integration with existing workflows.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Read recent conversations and message history from Messages.app
  • Send text messages and iMessages to contacts or Apple IDs
  • Integrate with scripts to automate replies and notifications
  • Watch for new messages and respond in near real-time (optional)

Quick Start

Use imsg to read chats and send a message to a contact 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 an automation script on macOS?

You can send iMessages from an automation script on macOS by using the imsg command-line utility, which interfaces with Messages.app to send texts to contacts or Apple IDs directly from your terminal workflows.

Can I read recent SMS and iMessage history from the command line?

Yes, you can read SMS and iMessage history from the command line. The imsg tool retrieves recent conversations and message history from Messages.app, allowing you to check chats and logs within your terminal.

Do I need macOS and specific permissions to read and send iMessages via CLI?

Yes, you need macOS and appropriate permissions for Messages.app to read and send iMessages via CLI. The imsg utility requires full disk access and automation permissions to interact with your conversations successfully.

What is the best way to watch for new iMessages in near real-time?

The best way to watch for new iMessages in near real-time is using the imsg watch command. This monitors Messages.app for incoming texts, enabling your scripts to automate replies and notifications as soon as conversations arrive.

Are there limitations when using command-line messaging tools with Messages.app?

Limitations of command-line messaging with Messages.app include strict dependency on macOS and the imsg utility. If Messages.app lacks proper permissions or the environment is not macOS, the automation scripts will fail to send or read texts.