ScreenML uses AI to automatically generate descriptive filenames for screenshots at the moment of capture, replacing generic timestamp-based names like “Screenshot 2024-01-01 at 10.30.45 AM.png” with meaningful identifiers such as “Safari_GitHub_Pull_Request.png” or “Terminal_Error_Message_Python.png”.
The app captures screenshots via a dedicated hotkey (Option + 3) and analyzes content using AI models including ChatGPT, Claude, or Google Gemini. The generated filename follows the format “[Context/Window_Title]_[Keywords].png”, making Spotlight searches practical for locating specific screenshots by content rather than capture time.
Key features include integration with Preview for annotation workflows, a menu bar view for accessing recent filenames, and launch-at-login support. The app processes screenshots in the cloud, requiring an internet connection. The developer states that screenshots are processed solely for filename generation and not used for model training.
The free tier provides 50 screenshots per month with basic filename customization. A planned Pro version at $6.99 monthly offers 750 screenshots, batch renaming, custom rules, and background removal features.
Limitations include a slight delay between hotkey press and capture while AI processing occurs, making the app unsuitable for capturing rapidly changing content or time-critical screenshots. Naming accuracy depends on clear context and readable text—abstract UI elements or purely graphical content may receive generic descriptions. The monthly screenshot limit on the free tier constrains power users who capture frequently.
The app runs on macOS only and downloads directly from the developer website. No credit card is required for the free plan.
Suitable for users who frequently reference old screenshots, need to organize captures by project or topic, or want Spotlight searches to locate screenshots by content rather than timestamp.
