NotesCTL: Advanced Command Line Tool for Apple Notes
A powerful terminal integration for power users of Apple's Notes app
1What is NotesCTL?
NotesCTL is a command-line tool designed to manage Apple Notes from the terminal. Developed by Federico Viticci following the success of RemCTL, it provides access to all features of Apple Notes via command line. Specifically designed for integration with automation workflows and AI assistants, it bridges the gap between Apple's native apps and advanced user needs.
2Core Features
The tool offers complete access to Apple Notes features including tags, subfolders, pinning, rich links, and attachments. It supports advanced elements like checklists, headings, tables, audio recordings, and highlights. With PencilKit integration, it can convert SVGs into editable drawings using Apple Pencil, making it useful for creating coloring pages for children and simple mockups.
3Markdown Support
NotesCTL includes a Markdown exporter, particularly valuable for writers needing to transfer notes to other platforms. It can transcribe audio recordings from Notes and enable text search within those transcriptions. These features make it an ideal solution for users compiling in-depth research reports or managing complex documentation projects.
4Development Process
Federico developed this tool by reverse-engineering Apple Notes from the ground up. It's part of a series of software projects developed throughout 2026 using tools like Codex and Claude Code. Currently in beta, NotesCTL is available exclusively for Club MacStories+ and Premier members, with a public release planned for fall 2026.
5Membership Benefits
Early access to NotesCTL requires Club MacStories+ membership at $10/month or $100/year, or Premier membership at $12/month or $120/year. Members can find the tool in the MacStories Software section on Discord or on the Club Downloads page. This exclusive access allows members to influence the tool's development before its public release.
6Comparison with RemCTL
NotesCTL builds upon the success of RemCTL, Federico's earlier tool for managing Apple Reminders via command line. Both tools aim to enhance daily use of Apple's system apps while adding professional-grade functionality. NotesCTL represents a more sophisticated solution, addressing the greater complexity of Notes compared to Reminders.
7Future Projects
NotesCTL is the first in a series of exclusive software projects planned for Club MacStories members. The team has been working on multiple parallel projects throughout the year, many designed for power users seeking to extend Apple's system apps' capabilities. The success of NotesCTL will set benchmarks for these upcoming releases.
8Why It Matters
NotesCTL pushes the boundaries of productivity tools within the Apple ecosystem. Terminal integration enables sophisticated workflows for advanced users, particularly valuable for those working with AI assistants and automation scenarios. It maintains Apple's core functionality while adding professional features, creating a bridge between simplicity and power-user needs.
Original article: MacStories — Apple Notes için Gelişmiş Komut Satırı Aracı: NotesCTL