Automatically Import into ScreenPal feature does not work on macOS

This article is specific to the Screenshots feature. If you are seeking guidance related to other types of imports, see the following articles:

1. Why can't I see my video on my ScreenPal Content page online?
   
2. Import and edit an mp4 or other video
   
3. Import videos from your phone library
   
4. Import and edit an image

In ScreenPal Preferences (accessible via the Menu Bar icon), screenshots can be set to automatically import to the Image Projects folder, making them accessible in the Project Manager.

For some Mac users, when you click Automatically Import into ScreenPal, the checkbox remains unchecked. A tooltip is then displayed which states, "ScreenPal needs your permission to listen for new screenshot files." This occurs because ScreenPal lacks permissions to access the folder where system screenshots are stored.

By default, macOS stores screenshots in the Documents folder. If you have changed this folder at some point, the current location may be inaccessible to ScreenPal (e.g. Google Drive, Dropbox). If this is the case, launch the system screenshot tool (command + shift + 5). Next, click Options in the control bar, then select Documents or Desktop in the Save to section of the pop-up menu.

If you are already saving images to the default location, use these steps to give ScreenPal the required permissions:

1. Click the Apple menu () and select System Settings.

2. Click Privacy & Security  in the sidebar.

3. Select Files and Folders.

4. Expand the ScreenPal app in the list and toggle the Desktop Folder or Documents Folder option to on.

For more information about how to control access to files and folders on Mac, see this Apple Support article.

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