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The concept

Triggers let you automate actions with your voice. When Hermes hears a specific phrase, it performs an action instead of (or in addition to) typing text. 
You say: "search google for best coffee shops nearby"
         └── trigger ──┘ └────── remainder ───────┘

Trigger phrase: "search google for"
Action: Opens Google with "best coffee shops nearby"

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Why use triggers?

  • Speed — Actions happen instantly, no clicking or typing
  • Hands-free — Control your Mac without touching it
  • Consistency — Same phrase, same result, every time
  • Power — Chain complex workflows together

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Trigger anatomy

Every trigger has these components:
ComponentDescription
Trigger PhraseThe words that activate the trigger
Matching ModeHow the phrase is matched (prefix, exact, contains)
Action TypeWhat happens when triggered
Action ConfigSettings specific to that action
EnabledWhether the trigger is active

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Trigger types

Hermes supports 16 types of actions:
TypeWhat it doesComplexity
SnippetsReplace phrase with textSimple
Web SearchSearch the webSimple
App LauncherOpen applicationsSimple
Note CaptureSave a note by voiceSimple
Window LayoutSnap windows to positionsSimple
Keyboard ShortcutsSimulate key pressesMedium
Apple ShortcutsRun Shortcuts app workflowsMedium
Terminal CommandsRun shell commandsAdvanced
AI CallsCustom AI responsesAdvanced
Text FormattingEdit/reply to text with AIMedium
File ActionsFind files, open folders, take screenshots, and record screensMedium

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How triggers work

  1. You speak — “window left”
  2. Hermes transcribes — Converts speech to text
  3. Trigger matching — Checks if any trigger phrase matches
  4. Action execution — Runs the associated action
  5. Result — Window snaps to left half of screen
The whole process takes about a second.

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Getting started

Create your first trigger

Step-by-step guide to making a trigger.

Matching modes

How trigger phrases are matched.

Default triggers

Pre-built triggers you can enable.

Variables

Use dynamic values in your triggers.