> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.alterhq.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Send iMessages faster with Alter

> What Alter can currently do with Messages, with practical prompts and setup

This workflow is for quick outbound iMessages when you already know who to contact and what to say.

## What this helps you do

Use it for fast status updates, scheduling confirmations, or short follow-ups. Instead of switching apps and typing manually, you can send the message from the conversation flow.

## Works with

* App: Messages (iMessage)
* Tool type: Local tool
* Permissions: Messages automation (if prompted)

## What Alter can do today

Alter can send iMessages to valid phone numbers or email addresses tied to iMessage.

## What Alter does not do yet

* It does not read your message history.
* It does not summarize conversations or manage inbox threads.

## Typical workflows

### Fast update to one person

Give recipient + message in one prompt and send quickly.

### Contact-first sending

Ask Alter to find the contact details first, then send the message.

## A realistic workflow

<Steps>
  <Step title="Confirm recipient">
    Include the exact phone number or email in your prompt, or ask Alter to find it first.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Send concise message">
    Ask Alter to send one clear sentence with the necessary context.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Follow up if needed">
    Send a second confirmation message when plans change.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Copy/paste prompts

* "Send a message to +33612345678: I'm running 10 minutes late."
* "Send an iMessage to [alex@company.com](mailto:alex@company.com): Can we move to 3 PM?"
* "Find Sarah's phone number, then send: I just shared the doc."

## How to enable

<Steps>
  <Step title="Enable Messages in Tools Manager">
    Open Alter -> click the three dots -> **Tools Manager** -> **Local Tools** -> enable **Messages**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check Messages app setup">
    Make sure Messages is installed and your iMessage account is active.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Run a quick test">
    Send a short message to yourself or a trusted contact.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## What to expect

* Recipient format must be a valid phone number or email.
* For safety, confirm recipient identity in the same prompt when names are ambiguous.

## Related pages

* [Messages app capabilities](/apps-tools/messages)
* [Contacts workflow](/workflows/manage-contacts-with-alter)
* [Use Tool Manager](/how-to/tool-manager-guide)