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Ui Read Tree

ui_read_tree
Read-only

Returns a COMPACT accessibility tree of a running native app's labeled + interactive elements (buttons, links, text fields, checkboxes, menus…) — the native equivalent of web_read's a11y mode. Use it to DISCOVER what to act on in an unfamiliar app when you don't already know an element's role/label (ui_find_element needs one up front). Each interactive node carries a ref you can pass straight to ui_click. Pass app_bundle_id of a running app (e.g. com.apple.finder — see list_windows); the tree is pruned to signal-bearing nodes and bounded by max_depth (default 12) and a node budget, so very large windows return partial. The app's macOS menu bar is skipped by default (it's hundreds of menu-item nodes) — pass include_menu_bar=true if you specifically need to act on menu-bar items.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
max_depthNoMax tree depth to descend (default 12, max 20)
window_idNoAlternative to app_bundle_id: a window id from list_windows (targets that window's app)
app_bundle_idNoBundle id of a RUNNING app (e.g. com.apple.finder)
include_menu_barNoInclude the app's macOS menu bar (hundreds of menu-item nodes). Default false.

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No arguments

TDQS

A4.6/5.0
Behavior5/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false, so the tool is known to be safe. The description adds valuable behavioral context beyond annotations: tree pruning, node budget, partial return on large windows, and menu bar skipping by default. This helps the agent set expectations and handle partial results.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single dense paragraph, but it is front-loaded with the main outcome and each subsequent sentence adds a needed caveat (pruning, bounds, menu bar). It is not overly verbose; every sentence earns its place, though it could be slightly restructured for readability.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's discovery purpose, the description covers purpose, when to use, key parameters, behavioral limits, and the menu bar exception. It also references sibling tools for alternate flows. With a rich output schema expected, the description is sufficient for an agent to select and invoke this tool correctly.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents all four parameters with meaningful descriptions. The description adds minor context like 'running app' and an example bundle ID, but these are already present in the schema. Baseline 3 is appropriate since the description doesn't significantly compensate beyond the schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool returns a compact accessibility tree of a running native app's labeled + interactive elements, using a specific verb ('Returns') and resource. It also distinguishes itself from sibling ui_find_element by noting it works when you don't already know an element's role/label, and references web_read's a11y mode.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines5/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Explicitly states when to use: 'Use it to DISCOVER what to act on in an unfamiliar app when you don't already know an element's role/label (ui_find_element needs one up front).' Also provides a pointer to list_windows for finding bundle IDs and clarifies when include_menu_bar should be set to true.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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TDQS

A3.5/5.0
Disambiguation3/5

Many tools are clearly distinct per app (e.g., chrome_*, safari_*, m365_*), but there is notable overlap between generic file tools like `file_list` and `finder_list`, both listing files; `search_contacts` and `list_contacts` serve similar purposes; `report_friction` and `report_problem` both send feedback to the team. The large number of tools with similar purposes in different domains creates moderate ambiguity for an agent.

Naming Consistency4/5

The naming convention is very consistent overall: most tools follow a `{app}_action` or `verb_noun` pattern (e.g., `chrome_click`, `create_calendar_event`, `list_reminders`). There are minor deviations like `lmcp_install_upgrade` (two verbs) and `complete_omnifocus_task` vs. `complete_reminder` (inconsistent verb placement). Still, the pattern is predictable and readable across the full set.

Tool Count2/5

With 225 tools, the surface is extremely large and heavy. While it covers many distinct domains (browsers, mail, calendar, files, notes, reminders, video editing, web automation, etc.), the sheer number makes it hard to navigate and likely includes many rarely-used tools. This is far beyond the well-scoped range of 3-15 tools and feels excessive even for a 'local everything' MCP server.

Completeness3/5

For many app integrations, the tool set provides solid CRUD coverage (e.g., Calendar has create, read, update, delete; Apple Notes has create, read, update, list, search; OmniFocus has create, list, search, complete). However, some areas are incomplete: for example, there is no tool to create a new Mail folder or delete notes. The 'web' tools lack a clear update/delete for saved sessions. The suite is broad but has notable gaps within individual domains.