imsg

Read and send iMessage/SMS conversations via macOS Messages.app from the command line.

9|2|Updated Mar 12, 2026

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

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/hongmaple0820/agent-academy --skill imsg-hongmaple0820

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imsg
Source: https://github.com/hongmaple0820/agent-academy/tree/main/skills/integrations/imsg
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/hongmaple0820/agent-academy --skill imsg-hongmaple0820

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Automates reading iMessage conversations and sending messages from the command line via macOS Messages.app, reducing context switching and manual steps.

Core Features & Use Cases

List Chats to view recent conversations
View History of a chat
Send Messages to a number or Apple ID
Watch for new messages in real time
Safety rules and service options for iMessage vs SMS

Quick Start

Install imsg and start interacting from the terminal by listing chats or sending messages.

Frequently Asked Questions about imsg

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I send an iMessage from the command line on macOS?▼

Use the imsg CLI to send an iMessage from the command line on macOS. It interfaces directly with Messages.app, allowing you to send texts to a phone number or Apple ID through terminal commands.

Can I view iMessage chat history using a macOS terminal?▼

View iMessage chat history using a macOS terminal with the imsg CLI. It lists recent conversations and retrieves the history of specific chats, reducing manual steps and context switching.

How do I automate sending SMS messages on macOS?▼

Automate SMS messaging on macOS by integrating the imsg CLI into your shell scripts. It supports controlled messaging workflows and provides safety rules and service options for iMessage versus SMS delivery.

Does the imsg CLI require special permissions to automate Messages.app?▼

Yes, the imsg CLI requires macOS with Messages.app access and appropriate permissions for automation and attachments. Granting these system permissions allows the binary to read and send messages.

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

Use the imsg CLI's watch feature to watch for new iMessages in real time. It monitors conversations from the command line, enabling automated workflows to react instantly to incoming messages.

Are there limitations when sending attachments via the iMessage command line tool?▼

Limitations include requiring appropriate macOS permissions for automation and attachments. The imsg tool relies on Messages.app access, meaning it cannot function outside of a macOS environment.