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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about OnText.

General​

What is OnText?​

OnText is a macOS utility that shows a floating action panel when you select text. It lets you quickly search, copy, translate, or run custom actions on any selected text.

Is OnText free?​

OnText offers a free version with basic features. The Pro version unlocks additional features including more actions and priority support.

Which macOS versions are supported?​

OnText requires macOS 13.0 (Ventura) or later. It works on Apple Silicon Macs.

Permissions​

Why does OnText need Accessibility permission?​

OnText needs Accessibility permission to:

  • Detect when you select text
  • Read the selected text content
  • Simulate keyboard actions (like paste)
  • Monitor global hotkeys

Without this permission, OnText cannot function.

Is my data safe?​

Yes! OnText:

  • Processes all text locally on your Mac
  • Never sends your text to any server
  • Doesn't collect any usage data
  • Doesn't phone home

Features​

Can I change the F2 hotkey?​

Yes! Open Preferences → General → Behavior and click the Trigger Shortcut field to set a new trigger key.

How do I add custom actions?​

  1. Open Preferences → Actions
  2. Click the + button
  3. Configure your action type (URL, Shell Script, AppleScript, Shortcut, or Builtin)
  4. Add the template or command

See Custom Actions for details.

Can I use AppleScript?​

Yes! Create an AppleScript action and enter your script directly (no osascript -e needed). See AppleScript for examples.

What apps work with OnText?​

OnText works with most macOS apps. Some apps with custom text handling may need the {textWithCopy} placeholder instead of {text}.

Troubleshooting​

The panel doesn't appear when I press F2​

  1. Check that OnText is running (menu bar icon visible)
  2. Verify Accessibility permission is granted
  3. Make sure the current app isn't in the exclusion list
  4. Check if other text extension tools are causing conflicts
  5. Try reinstalling OnText

Actions aren't working​

  1. Test with a simple action like "Copy" first
  2. Check your action configuration for typos
  3. For shell scripts, test the command in Terminal first
  4. See Troubleshooting for more help

Licensing​

How do I purchase Pro?​

Visit Gumroad to purchase a Pro license.

Can I use one license on multiple Macs?​

Yes, you can use your license on up to 3 personal Macs. Contact us if you need more devices.

How do I activate my license?​

  1. Purchase from Gumroad
  2. Open OnText Preferences → License
  3. Enter your license key
  4. Click Activate

Still have questions?​

Email us at ontext.help@gmail.com