In the Actions sidebar, select Files and Folders and then Rename Finder Items. Open Applications > Automator and choose Service when prompted to create a new Automator document. The service will be different than the application, in that it will always be available in the Services contextual menu. I’ll show you the process of creating an Automator service to perform the same function. In a previous tutorial, I explained how to use Automator to batch rename files and folders with a user-created Automator application. Create a Service to Rename Files and Folders Delete or rename services in the Library folder. If an Automator service isn't working or you just don't have a use for it, it can be deleted from the Services folder in Users > Library > Services. Click the checkbox next to a service to turn it on again. If the services menus are getting cluttered, shut some off. All services for all applications can be accessed here. Services are toggled on and off in System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts > Services. There are more than just Automator services to find there, though. Select files to perform the same action on all of them at once. Actions can be stacked and contain numerous variables, creating endless and easily customizable output. Automator uses actions to execute tasks and act on the selected input. This input can be in the form of text, dates, images, documents, and more. Services receive input in any or in specific applications. While it’s possible to create workflows, applications, and folder actions to accomplish many of the same tasks, the always on nature of Services makes them convenient for small or repeated tasks without breaking up your workflow. I’ve previously written about how to automate your Mac to do almost anything using Automator calendar alarms and how to use Services to clear up your Desktop. Services are workflows accessed from contextual menus.Ĭontextual menus can be found by Secondary-click > Services on a file, text, or in an application or in the application menu via Application > Services. Services are always available in any relevant application, including Finder Automator doesn’t have to be running for services to work.

Automator mac rename file by text