A new app that lets you connect to your Mac's terminal from your iPhone with end-to-end encryption and device-level security controls.
The line between desktop and mobile computing continues to blur, and Macky is the latest entrant pushing that boundary. This new app lets you connect to your Mac's terminal directly from your iPhone, bringing command-line power to your pocket with what the developers call "military-grade security."
The Terminal in Your Pocket
For developers, system administrators, and power users, the terminal is where the real work happens. But being tethered to a desk limits productivity. Macky solves this by creating a secure bridge between your iPhone and Mac, supporting multiple shell environments including ZSH and BASH, plus AI coding assistants Claude Code and Codex.
Security-First Architecture
What sets Macky apart isn't just remote access—it's the security model. The app implements a four-layer defense system that goes well beyond typical remote access tools:
Transport Layer: End-to-end encrypted WebRTC with DTLS-SRTP tunneling means your terminal data is invisible to the network. Even if someone intercepts the traffic, they can't read it.
Verification Layer: Dual-layer identity signaling validates access tokens, but a master password on the terminal itself provides a second barrier. Even if your account is compromised, the terminal remains protected.
Authorization Layer: Device allow-listing requires explicit approval for each unique device ID before any connection is established. No device connects without permission.
Privacy Layer: The signaling server only coordinates the initial handshake. Your actual terminal data never touches Macky's cloud infrastructure.
Pricing That Makes Sense
Macky offers a straightforward pricing model that caters to both casual users and power users:
Basic Plan ($0 forever): Perfect for occasional use with 5-minute session limits, one Mac host, and one iPhone remote. This is genuinely free with no hidden costs.
Pro Plan ($29 lifetime): For heavy users, this removes all session limits, allows unlimited devices, provides 30-day connection logs, and enables background connections so you can stay connected even when switching apps.
Real-World Use Cases
The testimonials speak to practical benefits rather than technical features. George appreciates being able to chat with Claude instead of doom-scrolling social media. Marcus values the instant connection to Claude Code. Priya replaced three separate apps with one unified solution.
Getting Started
Setting up Macky requires macOS 15+ on the host machine and iOS 18+ on the remote device. The host downloads a DMG file, while the remote installs directly from the App Store. The process appears streamlined compared to traditional SSH setups that often require port forwarding and complex configuration.
For developers who need terminal access on the go, or teams that want secure remote access without the complexity of VPNs and SSH key management, Macky presents an intriguing option. The combination of military-grade security with the convenience of mobile access could make it a valuable tool in the modern developer's toolkit.
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