macos-automation

Purpose

This skill automates tasks on macOS using tools like AppleScript, JXA, Shortcuts, Automator, osascript, System Events, and the accessibility API, enabling script-based control of apps and system functions.

When to Use

• Automate repetitive workflows, such as file management or app interactions.
• Integrate with macOS apps for custom behaviors, like triggering actions via keyboard shortcuts.
• Script complex sequences involving multiple apps, e.g., when Shortcuts alone isn't sufficient.
• Handle accessibility tasks, like UI element manipulation, when apps don't expose direct APIs.
• Use for rapid prototyping of automations in environments like shell scripts or IDEs.

Key Capabilities

• Execute AppleScript via osascript for app control, e.g., manipulating Finder or Safari.
• Run JXA (JavaScript for Automation) to interact with macOS APIs, supporting modern JavaScript syntax.
• Create and invoke Shortcuts programmatically for quick actions, like sharing files.
• Use Automator workflows as scripts, convertible to applications or services.
• Leverage System Events for UI automation, including keyboard/mouse simulation via accessibility API.
• Access macOS-specific APIs like NSAppleScript for embedding in Objective-C/Swift code.