imessage

Send and read iMessages and SMS via the imsg CLI on macOS.

11|Updated May 17, 2026

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

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/StarryCod/cogitum --skill imessage-starrycod

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imessage
Source: https://github.com/StarryCod/cogitum/tree/main/cogitum/data/skills/apple/imessage
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/StarryCod/cogitum --skill imessage-starrycod

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Automates sending and reading iMessages and SMS on macOS via the imsg CLI, enabling scripting and automation of routine messaging tasks.

Core Features & Use Cases

Read iMessage conversation history and list chats.
Send iMessages or SMS to contacts from the terminal.
Manage messages with safe guards such as recipient confirmation before sending.

Quick Start

Start by listing your chats and sending a message to a contact using imsg.

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 command line?▼

To send iMessages from the macOS command line, this Skill uses the imsg CLI to programmatically transmit texts to contacts via the Messages.app, requiring recipient IDs or phone numbers with enforced safety checks before sending.

Can I read iMessage conversation history using terminal automation?▼

You can read iMessage conversation history using terminal automation by leveraging the imsg CLI to list existing chats and programmatically view past messages directly from macOS.

Does sending SMS via macOS CLI require Messages.app to be installed?▼

Yes, sending SMS via macOS CLI requires Messages.app to be installed and running, as the imsg tool interfaces with it to enable programmatic text transmission and monitoring.

What is the best way to automate routine messaging tasks on macOS?▼

Automating routine messaging tasks on macOS is best handled through this Skill's imsg CLI integration, which allows scripting of sending texts and monitoring new messages while enforcing recipient confirmation.

Are there safety checks when sending texts programmatically via the imsg CLI?▼

Yes, there are safety checks when sending texts programmatically via the imsg CLI, specifically enforcing recipient confirmation before transmitting any iMessages or SMS to prevent unintended messages.

Can I monitor new iMessages for automation scripts on macOS?▼

Yes, you can monitor new iMessages for automation scripts on macOS using the imsg CLI, which supports tracking incoming messages via the Messages.app to trigger downstream workflows.