Question 1

How do I set up a basic text expansion in Espanso?

Accepted Answer

Create a YAML configuration file in the espanso config directory with matches defining triggers and replacements. After saving, restart Espanso to apply the expansions system-wide, as shown in the quick start examples.

Question 2

Espanso vs TextExpander: which is better for privacy?

Accepted Answer

Espanso is entirely local with no cloud dependency, making it superior for privacy-conscious users. TextExpander offers cloud syncing but may involve data tracking, so Espanso is the clear choice if privacy is the top priority.

Question 3

Can Espanso run shell commands when triggered?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Espanso supports custom scripts and shell commands as replacements. You can define a match that executes a command and outputs the result, useful for automating tasks like fetching system data or generating content.

Question 4

How to make Espanso work with specific applications only?

Accepted Answer

Use app-specific configurations by creating YAML files that include the 'app' field to restrict triggers to certain applications. This allows tailored expansions, such as code snippets only in your IDE.

Question 5

Is Espanso free to use for commercial purposes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Espanso is open-source under the GPL-3.0 license, so it's free for personal and commercial use. However, any modifications to the source code must be shared under the same license.

Question 6

How to sync Espanso settings between my laptop and desktop?

Accepted Answer

Since Espanso lacks built-in cloud sync, you can manually copy configuration files or use tools like Git for version control. Some users set up symbolic links or sync via cloud storage services, but this requires technical effort.

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