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ui_find_element

Read-only

Search the iOS simulator's accessibility tree to locate UI elements by label, type, or unique ID, filtering with substring or exact match.

Instructions

Searches the accessibility tree and returns elements matching the given criteria

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
typeNoFilter by element type (e.g. 'Button', 'StaticText', 'Group'). Case-insensitive exact match
udidNoUdid of target, can also be set with the IDB_UDID env var
searchYesArray of search strings. An element matches if ANY string matches against its AXLabel or AXUniqueId
matchModeNoMatch mode for search strings: 'substring' (default) or 'exact'substring
caseSensitiveNoWhether search matching is case-sensitive (default: false)
Install Server

TDQS

A3.5/5.0
Behavior3/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, so safety is covered. The description adds context that it inspects the accessibility tree, but does not disclose return format, behavior when no elements match, or any nuances. This is acceptable but not rich.

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

Conciseness5/5

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

The description is a single, front-loaded sentence that wastes no words. It communicates the core action and expected result efficiently.

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

Completeness3/5

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

With 5 parameters, no output schema, and multiple sibling tools, the description is minimal. It covers the basic purpose but lacks usage guidance, return details, or edge-case behavior, so it is adequate but not comprehensive.

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 each parameter (search, type, udid, matchMode, caseSensitive) has a description in the schema. The tool description adds no additional parameter semantics, thus baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 uses a specific verb ('searches') and a clear resource ('the accessibility tree'), and states the output ('returns elements matching criteria'). This clearly distinguishes it from sibling tools like ui_describe_all or ui_view.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

No guidance is given on when to use this tool versus alternatives like ui_describe_all or ui_tap. It does not mention conditions, exclusions, or preferred scenarios, leaving the agent to infer from the name and sibling list.

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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