Ask Command

What is Ask Command?

Ask Command is an AI-powered assistant for developers that helps you recall forgotten Unix commands. It is a native macOS app built on OpenAI’s GPT-3: you describe what you want to do in plain language, and the app suggests the appropriate command. The goal is to save time you would otherwise spend searching for a command you have used before.

The app is currently in Beta, requires macOS 10.15 or later, and is available on the macOS App Store. It runs in a sandbox, so it cannot modify your system or execute commands on its own — it only suggests them. You should still review every suggestion and confirm it is correct and safe before running it.

Who created Ask Command?

Ask Command was created by Tony, who focused on keeping the tool simple and efficient. Because it only suggests commands rather than running them, it remains safe to use in a developer workflow.

What is Ask Command used for?

Typical uses include:

• Recalling common Unix commands quickly
• Handling basic logic queries, such as finding files older than three months
• Checking whether a macOS app is sandboxed
• Listing Kubernetes pods and their statuses
• Downloading a file from a URL
• Finding email addresses within a file
• Getting general command suggestions and answers to simple, everyday questions
• Looking up solutions to questions already answered on Google or Stack Overflow

You can also send feature ideas, bug reports, or general feedback via Twitter. The app improves over time thanks to server-side feedback.

Who is Ask Command for?

The app targets developers, programmers, and IT professionals who want to save time recalling commands without opening a browser or digging through search results.

How it works

Type your question in plain language. The app sends it to its server, where GPT-3 generates Unix command suggestions. Review each suggestion carefully before using it — the app cannot run commands for you, and its sandbox prevents it from changing your system. Answers to common questions about functionality, safety, and compatibility are available in the app’s FAQs.