shmessage

**shmessage** is a lightweight command-line utility designed for Unix-like operating systems to send messages between users on the same machine. It is part of the **util-linux** package, a collection of essential Linux utilities, and is commonly used in environments where a more robust messaging system like **write** or **wall** is unnecessary.

The tool operates by sending a message to a specified user via their shell session, typically through the **write** command. When invoked, **shmessage** prompts the user for a message and the recipient’s username. The message is then relayed to the recipient’s terminal, where it appears as if it were typed directly by the system. This makes it useful for quick, informal communication without requiring persistent messaging infrastructure.

One of its key features is simplicity—it does not maintain a history or support advanced formatting, making it ideal for basic inter-process communication. However, it relies on the recipient’s terminal being open and their shell configured to accept incoming messages, which can limit its reliability in some environments.

**shmessage** is often used in shared development or server environments where users need to coordinate tasks without relying on external tools. It is not intended for secure or encrypted communication, as messages are transmitted in plaintext and may be visible to other users on the system.

The utility is typically installed by default on most Linux distributions, though its availability may vary depending on the specific distribution and configuration. For more advanced messaging needs, alternatives like **systemd-notify** or dedicated chat applications may be preferred.