How to copy text from any app window on Mac
Many apps show text you can’t select: settings screens, labels, lists, installers and older apps. Press ⌘ ⇧ 2, drag over the text, and Copyable copies it the moment you let go. It reads the pixels on screen, so it works in every app, whether or not the text is selectable.
How to do it with Copyable
Open the window with the text
Scroll so the part you need is visible. For long lists, capture one screen at a time.
Press ⌘ ⇧ 2 and drag over the text
Select a label, a list or the whole window. Interface text is small, so a tight selection around it helps.
Paste it
The text is in your clipboard the moment you let go, and the panel next to your selection shows it. Press ⌘ V in your notes, a ticket or a message.
Without Copyable
The free ways, and where they stop working. If one of them covers what you need, you don’t need an app.
Look for Copy or Export in the app
Lists such as playlists, logs or settings can sometimes be copied or exported from a menu in the app.
Where it stops: Depends on the app, and most labels and dialogs have no such option.
A screenshot, then Preview
Press ⌘ ⌃ ⇧ 4 (Command-Control-Shift-4) and select the area to copy a screenshot to the clipboard. Open Preview, choose File → New from Clipboard and select the text with Live Text.
Where it stops: Works for anything on screen, but each capture takes several steps and leaves a Preview window to close.
Tips for app windows
- Lists come out one item per line, ready to paste into a note or a spreadsheet column.
- Password fields show dots, not text. Copyable reads only what is drawn on screen.
- Windows that an app hides from screen capture appear empty or black to every capture tool, Copyable included.
Questions
Does it need Accessibility permission?
No. Copyable needs one permission, Screen Recording, which macOS asks you to allow once.
Does it work with full-screen apps?
Yes. Press ⌘ ⇧ 2 over a full-screen app like over any other window.
Can it copy text from System Settings?
Yes. System Settings, About This Mac and installer windows are on screen like any other app.
Copy text from anything on your screen
Copyable reads the text in any area you select with ⌘ ⇧ 2, on your Mac, without uploading anything. $4.99 once, plus tax where it applies. Requires macOS 14 Sonoma or later, Apple silicon or Intel.
Buy for $4.99