Open New Files

Open incoming files in their default app

Use this Rule for a small review inbox where each new document should open as soon as it arrives. It saves a trip to Finder when another workflow places a report or reference file in a folder you are actively watching.

When: A direct item is added to the selected folder. If: The event is an addition and the item kind is a file. Do: Open the Trigger’s Item Path with its default application. The two Conditions keep folder additions from being opened by the sample.

Configure and try it

1. Import using Open this Rule in Rulr, then choose the folder in Folder Contents Changed. The sample uses Downloads; a dedicated review folder is often easier to control.
2. Keep the change type set to added and review the file-kind Condition.
3. Review Open File or Folder. Its source should remain the event’s Item Path, and its application choice should be Default unless you want a particular compatible app.
4. Enable the Rule and add a harmless text document. Confirm that the right app opens it. Add a folder separately and confirm that the Rule does not open it.

Requirements and limits

Folder monitoring requires Rulr Pro. Rulr needs access to the watched folder, and macOS needs a suitable application for the file type.

The sample does not recursively monitor subfolders, open the existing contents on import, or wait for a browser’s download-complete signal. Avoid using a busy general download folder until you have tested the behavior. For running your own processing steps instead of opening files, see Run Shortcut for Folder.