Scriptable
ActiveOverview
Scriptable is an iOS app that allows users to write JavaScript scripts to automate interactions with native iOS features including files, calendars, reminders, contacts, photos, and location services. It supports creating custom Home Screen widgets that execute scripts without opening the app and integrates with Siri Shortcuts and the share sheet. The app targets users seeking to automate tasks on iOS devices through scripting.
Key Features
- JavaScript Scripting - Write and run JavaScript code using ECMAScript 6 with autocomplete for variables, functions, and properties.
- Native iOS APIs - Access iOS features like files, calendars, reminders, contacts, photos, location, and web views from scripts.
- Custom Widgets - Create Home Screen widgets that run scripts and display custom data without launching the app.
- Siri Shortcuts Integration - Run scripts from Siri Shortcuts and present tables, websites, or HTML in responses.
- Share Sheet Extension - Process inputs from the iOS share sheet directly in scripts.
- Files Integration - Perform file operations integrated with the iOS Files app and file system.
- Offline Documentation - Access documentation for all bridged native APIs within the app.
- x-callback-url Support - Communicate with other apps using the x-callback-url scheme.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Free | Full access to all features including scripting, widgets, and iOS integrations. |
Platforms & Requirements
Runs exclusively on iOS devices via the App Store. Requires iOS 12 or later. No support for macOS, Android, or other platforms.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- iOS Files app
- Siri Shortcuts
- Share Sheet
- Calendars and Reminders
- Contacts
- Photos
- Location Services
- x-callback-url
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| Shortcuts | Apple's built-in app uses a visual node-based interface instead of JavaScript coding. |
| Draftsen | Focuses on text processing and automation with JavaScript, lacking deep native iOS API access. |
| a-Shell | Provides a terminal with scripting tools but without widget support or Siri integration. |
| Pythonista | Uses Python instead of JavaScript for iOS automation scripts. |
Reputation
Scriptable is recognized for enabling powerful iOS automation through JavaScript, with strong praise for its native integrations and widget capabilities. Users appreciate the autocomplete editor and offline docs. Some note a learning curve for those new to JavaScript and occasional limitations in API coverage compared to native apps.