imsg

Read, monitor, and send iMessage conversations from the macOS terminal.

Updated Feb 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/joeleung0122/testing --skill imsg-joeleung0122
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: imsg
Source: https://github.com/joeleung0122/testing/tree/main/skills/imsg
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/joeleung0122/testing --skill imsg-joeleung0122

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

iMessage and SMS management is often manual and restricted to platform apps. This skill provides a CLI approach to read chats, view history, monitor conversations in real time, and send messages from macOS.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Read chats, history, and live updates from Messages.app via a simple CLI.
  • Send messages to contacts directly from the terminal, enabling automation and scripting.
  • Integrate messaging into automated workflows, alerts, and batch notifications.

Quick Start

Install imsg and view your conversations with imsg chats --limit 5.

Frequently Asked Questions about imsg

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I send iMessage or SMS from the terminal on macOS?

You can send iMessage or SMS from the macOS terminal using a CLI tool that interacts directly with Messages.app. This enables scriptable messaging workflows and automated notifications without opening the app.

Can I monitor iMessage conversations in real time from a command line interface?

Yes, you can monitor iMessage conversations in real time from a command line interface by watching for changes in Messages.app. The CLI watches for live updates and lists chat history as new messages arrive.

What is the best way to automate SMS notifications using a macOS CLI?

The best way to automate SMS notifications using a macOS CLI is by integrating a scriptable messaging tool with Messages.app. This allows you to send messages directly from the terminal to trigger batch alerts and automated workflows.

Does this iMessage CLI tool require any special permissions on macOS?

Yes, sending iMessage and SMS via a CLI on macOS requires granting necessary permissions and automation access to control Messages.app. You must authorize terminal automation to read chats, view history, and send messages.

How do I list and view my iMessage chat history from the terminal?

You can list and view your iMessage chat history from the terminal by running a CLI command like 'imsg chats --limit 5'. This queries Messages.app to read chats and display recent conversation history directly in the terminal.

Can I integrate iMessage sending into my existing terminal scripts?

Yes, you can integrate iMessage sending into existing terminal scripts by using a CLI that provides command line tooling for Messages.app. This enables developers to build automated workflows, alerts, and batch notifications.