Action Shortcuts: Automation

About

ActionShortcuts lets you control or launch other apps, and run commands and scripts, using keyboard shortcuts or from the menu bar. After installing it from the Mac App Store, you copy your script files into its Scripts Folder, or create symbolic links to scripts stored elsewhere. Supported file types include AppleScript, Automator workflows, applications, and command and shell scripts with proper shebangs. Scripts can be created with the Script Editor and Automator apps included in macOS, and sample scripts are available for download, including ones that turn on Dark Mode, hide the Dock, auto-hide the menu bar, show the desktop, and control the HazeOver app.

Keyboard shortcuts are set up in the app's Settings, and actions can be run from the menu or with their shortcut while the app is running. The app can start automatically at login, and you can hide the menu bar icon or individual actions. Some scripts that control keyboard input or other system aspects require Accessibility permission, which you grant in System Settings. The website also covers troubleshooting common errors, such as unknown interpreter and command-not-found issues, with guidance on shebang lines for non-interactive shells.

The website also promotes HazeOver, a separate app that dims background windows to highlight the active window and supports automation.