AutoKey is an open source desktop automation utility. It allows the automation of virtually any task by responding to typed abbreviations and hotkeys.
AutoKey offers a full-featured graphical user interface that makes it accessible for novices, as well as a scripting interface offering the full flexibility and power of the Python language. There are versions for GTK+ and Qt.
When a trigger is detected by Autokey, one of three things can happen; a script is activated, text is inserted at the cursor position or a pop-up menu is displayed allowing a script or phrase to be activated by selecting it.
AutoKey scripts can literally do almost anything that can be coded as a Python program. Python scripts are user created and can be shared between users. AutoKey includes a range of sample Python scripts.
AutoKey features a subset of the capabilities of the popular Windows-based AutoHotkey, but it is not intended as a full replacement.
Key Features
- Python scripting engine allows you to automate virtually any task that can be accomplished via the keyboard and/or mouse.
- Built-in code editor with autocomplete and calltips.
- Scripts are plain Python files that can be edited in any text editor.
- Similarly, phrases are stored as plain text files.
- Create collections of phrases/scripts in folders, and assign a hotkey or abbreviation to the folder to display a popup menu.
- Regular expressions can be used to filter windows by their title or class, to exclude hotkeys/abbreviations from triggering in certain applications.
- Scripts, phrases and folders can be attached to the notification icon menu, allowing you to select them without assigning a hotkey or abbreviation.
Website: github.com/autokey/autokey
Support:
Developer: Chris Dekter
License: GNU General Public License v3.0

AutoKey is written in Python. Learn Python with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
| Visual Automation Tools | |
|---|---|
| AutoKey | Automate virtually any task by responding to typed abbreviations and hotkeys |
| xdotool | Fake keyboard/mouse input, window management |
| Actiona | Cross-platform automation tool |
| SikuliX | Uses image recognition powered by OpenCV to identify GUI components |
| wtype | xdotool type for Wayland |
| Repeat | Visual automation tool |
Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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