Master macOS Finder with Natural Language Commands
▼ Summary
– The author questions whether large language models (often called “AI”) are the future of computing but doubts chatbots will be the primary use case.
– Substage, a Mac app by Joseph Humfrey, demonstrates a practical alternative by integrating AI with file management in macOS.
– The app uses AI to generate Terminal commands for tasks like renaming or converting files, then asks for user confirmation before executing them.
– While powerful, Substage requires some command-line knowledge to use effectively, making it ideal for semi-technical users.
– The app speeds up workflows for users who understand basic command-line capabilities but prefer a more intuitive interface.
Navigating your Mac’s files has never been easier thanks to natural language commands that transform how you interact with Finder. A new indie application called Substage demonstrates how artificial intelligence can simplify complex tasks without requiring technical expertise. Developed by Joseph Humfrey, this innovative tool floats beneath every Finder window, ready to interpret your typed requests into actionable commands.
Instead of memorizing terminal syntax or digging through menus, users can type plain English instructions. Want to convert a video to audio-only MP3? Need to batch rename dozens of photos? Simply describe what you need, and Substage generates the appropriate command-line instruction for your approval before execution. During testing, the app successfully handled requests ranging from file format conversions to creating specialized archives based on content searches.
What makes Substage particularly powerful is its ability to bridge the gap between casual users and advanced functionality. While designed to democratize command-line tools, Humfrey notes the application works best for those with some technical awareness, users who understand what’s possible with their system, even if they don’t recall specific commands. This makes it ideal for anyone who occasionally resorts to search engines or documentation when tackling file management tasks.
The application demonstrates how AI can serve as a productivity multiplier rather than just a chatbot novelty. By translating intention into action, Substage eliminates the friction between wanting to accomplish something and knowing how to make it happen. While not magical, users still benefit from understanding their system’s capabilities, the tool significantly reduces the learning curve for powerful file operations. For Mac users tired of manual processes or intimidating terminal commands, this approach offers a compelling middle ground.
(Source: Wired)
