espanso is a cross-platform text expander tool that allows users to define abbreviations or shortcuts that automatically expand into larger pieces of text. Written in Rust programming language, espanso provides a lightweight and efficient solution for automating repetitive typing tasks across various operating systems.
Here are some key features and aspects of espanso:
- Text Expansion: espanso enables users to define abbreviations and their corresponding expansions. When an abbreviation is typed, espanso automatically replaces it with the associated expanded text. This feature significantly improves typing efficiency and reduces repetitive tasks, making it particularly useful for programmers, writers, customer support agents, and anyone who frequently types the same phrases or snippets.
- Cross-platform compatibility: espanso is designed to work seamlessly across different operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. This cross-platform compatibility allows users to have consistent text expansion functionality regardless of the system they are using.
- Customization and Configuration: Users can configure espanso according to their preferences and specific needs. It offers a flexible configuration file where users can define their abbreviations, expansions, and additional options such as case sensitivity, cursor positioning, and more. This customization capability allows users to tailor espanso to match their workflow and requirements.
- Variables and Dynamic Expansions: espanso supports variables that can be inserted into expansions. Variables enable dynamic text replacement, allowing users to create more advanced and context-aware expansions. For example, a variable can automatically insert the current date or time, the contents of the clipboard, or prompt for user input during expansion.
- Open-source and Extensibility: espanso is an open-source project, which means its source code is freely available for inspection, modification, and contribution. This fosters community involvement, encourages the development of new features and improvements, and ensures the tool remains up-to-date with evolving user needs.
- Multiple Language Support: espanso supports text expansion in multiple languages, allowing users to define abbreviations and expansions in their preferred language.
By using espanso, users can save time and effort by automating repetitive typing tasks. It improves productivity and reduces the risk of typing errors. With its cross-platform compatibility, customization options, and extensibility, espanso provides a versatile text expansion solution that can adapt to various workflows and help users streamline their daily typing activities.
espanso Command Examples
1. Check status:
# espanso status
2. Edit the configuration:
# espanso edit config
3. Install a package from the hub store (https://hub.espanso.org/):
# espanso install package_name
4. Restart (required after installing a package, useful in case of failure):
# espanso restart