Set up OpenClaw with iMessage using the native Mac bridge. This guide covers OpenClaw v2026.2+, macOS requirements, Apple ID authentication, end-to-end encryption, and Apple ecosystem integration for self-hosted AI assistants.
iMessage Integration
iMessage is Apple's default messaging service, available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.
TL;DR
- ✓Requires Mac computer with macOS
- ✓Two-factor authentication required
- ✓Configure openclaw.json with iMessage settings
- ✓Time: ~30 minutes
Setup Steps
Prerequisites
- Mac computer running macOS 12.0 or later
- Apple ID with two-factor authentication enabled
- Messages app signed in with your iMessage account
Step 1: Configure openclaw.json
{
"channels": {
"imessage": {
"enabled": true,
"mode": "macos"
}
}
}Step 2: Start OpenClaw
openclaw startGrant necessary permissions when prompted by macOS.
Step 3: Authorize iMessage
OpenClaw will prompt you to sign in with your Apple ID. Two-factor authentication is required for security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does iMessage require a Mac?
Apple does not provide a public API for iMessage. OpenClaw uses the native Messages app on macOS to send and receive messages, requiring a Mac computer to run the bridge.
Is iMessage secure with OpenClaw?
Yes, iMessage has end-to-end encryption by default. OpenClaw runs locally on your Mac and does not store messages on external servers.
Can I use iMessage on multiple Apple devices?
The bridge runs on a single Mac, but your messages sync across all your Apple devices through iCloud.
Does OpenClaw support Apple Business Chat?
Not currently. iMessage support is for personal Apple ID accounts only.