iTerm2
A free terminal emulator for macOS with tmux integration, shell integration and an optional built-in LLM chat window.
tmux windows, shell integration, hotkey windows and an optional LLM chat window.
iTerm2 is a terminal emulator for macOS that replaces the built-in Terminal app. It suits Mac developers who want mature features such as tmux integration, triggers and session restoration, with optional AI help rather than an AI-first design.
What it is
It turns tmux windows into native macOS windows, tracks commands, directories and hosts through shell integration, and keeps shells running in server processes so sessions survive crashes or upgrades. The README also describes a built-in LLM chat window that can optionally read terminal content and run commands.
Who it's for
It fits Mac users who live in the terminal and want deep tmux and scripting support. It does not suit Windows or Linux users, since it is a macOS app, and its AI chat is optional rather than a core agent.
Key features
tmux integration
tmux windows become native macOS windows and sessions persist through disconnects.
Shell integration
Tracks commands, directories and hosts, with drag-and-drop uploads and SCP downloads.
Session restoration
Shells keep running in server processes so they survive iTerm2 crashes or upgrades.
Hotkey windows
A system-wide hotkey opens a terminal that slides in from a screen edge.
Triggers and smart selection
Regex triggers fire actions, and quad-click selects URLs and file paths.
Built-in LLM chat
An optional chat window can read terminal content and give context-aware help.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- tmux windows map onto native macOS windows, with sessions that persist through crashes.
- Automatic profile switching changes appearance by hostname, user, directory or running command.
- A Python API and status bar components support scripting and customisation.
- The README states the AI chat is optional, so you can leave it off.
Where it falls short
- It is a macOS app only.
- The README does not state a minimum macOS version.
- Building from source needs Homebrew, Xcode, Rust and several build tools via make setup.
- The README describes the AI chat window briefly, with no model list or usage limits.
Pricing & license
iTerm2 is free software and the site lists no paid plan. Any AI use depends on whichever model provider you connect to the chat window.
Open remote AI-training roles
880 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 15, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
These reviewed AI tools do the same job instantly — from our scored directory.
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Does iTerm2 have AI features?
The README describes a built-in LLM chat window that can optionally interact with terminal content and run commands for you. The iTerm2 features page does not mention it.
Is iTerm2 free?
Yes. The site says it is free software.
Does iTerm2 run on Windows or Linux?
No. The README describes it as a terminal emulator for macOS.
