F2 is a fast, cross-platform command-line tool for batch renaming files and directories. Written in Rust, it offers a user-friendly syntax inspired by Python's f-strings, allowing for complex renaming operations using variables, counters, and date/time formatting. F2 supports regular expressions, case conversion, and various string manipulations. It prioritizes safety with features like dry runs and interactive previews to prevent accidental data loss. The project is open-source and readily available on major operating systems.
Ayo Isaiah has introduced F2, a command-line interface (CLI) tool designed for efficient and flexible batch renaming of files and directories across multiple operating systems (Windows, macOS, and Linux). F2 aims to streamline the often tedious process of renaming multiple files, providing a user-friendly experience through an intuitive syntax and a wide range of features.
F2 leverages a powerful expression-based renaming system, allowing users to specify complex renaming rules based on various file attributes like name, extension, creation date, modification date, and even sequence numbers. This allows for dynamic and customized renaming operations far beyond simple find-and-replace functionality. Users can construct renaming expressions using a combination of variables, operators, and functions provided by F2, granting granular control over the renaming process.
The cross-platform compatibility of F2 ensures consistent behavior and usage across different operating systems, removing the need for platform-specific tools or workarounds. This portability simplifies scripting and automation tasks involving file renaming, making it a valuable tool for developers, system administrators, and anyone who regularly needs to manage large numbers of files. Furthermore, being a CLI tool, F2 can be seamlessly integrated into shell scripts and other automation workflows.
F2 prioritizes user experience, offering features such as interactive previews to confirm changes before they are applied. This helps prevent accidental misnamings and provides an additional layer of safety when working with important files. The interactive preview allows users to review the proposed renames and make adjustments if necessary, ensuring the desired outcome before finalizing the changes.
The project is open-source and available on GitHub, encouraging community contributions and further development. This allows users to inspect the source code, report issues, propose enhancements, and even contribute to the project’s evolution. The open-source nature of F2 promotes transparency and fosters a collaborative environment for improving the tool.
Summary of Comments ( 4 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44081850
HN users generally praised F2's clean interface and cross-platform compatibility, viewing it as a significant improvement over similar tools. Several commenters appreciated the clear documentation and ease of use, particularly the intuitive syntax. Some suggested additional features like undo functionality, regular expression support beyond simple matching, and the ability to handle file conflicts or errors more gracefully. A few users expressed concern about the project's reliance on Python and its potentially large dependency tree, suggesting a compiled alternative might be preferable for performance. There was also a discussion around the chosen license (GPLv3) and its implications.
The Hacker News post for "Show HN: F2 – Cross-Platform CLI Batch Renaming Tool" (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44081850) has a moderate number of comments, discussing various aspects of the tool and similar solutions.
Several commenters express appreciation for the clean and straightforward approach of F2, praising its simplicity and ease of use compared to more complex renaming tools. One user highlights the value of a dedicated tool for this purpose, finding it more efficient than scripting solutions or using
find -exec. Another emphasizes the cross-platform nature of F2 as a significant advantage, allowing for consistent renaming workflows across different operating systems.The discussion also touches upon alternative tools and methods for batch renaming. Some users mention existing command-line utilities like
rename,mmv, andfdcombined withxargs, pointing out their established presence and potential advantages for users already familiar with those tools. A commenter suggests usingperl-renameas a powerful option. Another proposes the use of text editors with multiple cursors or regular expression find-and-replace functionality as effective alternatives for more complex renaming scenarios.A few comments delve into the technical details of F2. One user asks about the specific regular expression engine used by the tool, highlighting the importance of this detail for predictability and compatibility. Another comment inquires about the handling of file collisions, a crucial aspect of batch renaming operations to avoid data loss. The developer of F2 responds to these queries, clarifying the use of Rust's regex crate and the built-in collision avoidance mechanisms.
The conversation also explores potential improvements and feature requests for F2. Suggestions include implementing interactive preview functionality, adding support for recursive renaming within subdirectories, and allowing for custom renaming formats beyond simple find-and-replace. A user expresses a desire for an undo feature, a critical safety net for batch operations. Another commenter questions the necessity of a dedicated tool for this task, arguing that existing shell commands are sufficient. The creator acknowledges these suggestions and expresses openness to incorporating them in future versions.
Overall, the comments reflect a generally positive reception of F2, with users acknowledging its value as a simple and effective tool for cross-platform batch renaming. The discussion also highlights the diverse preferences and workflows within the community, with some users advocating for alternative tools and methods while others appreciate the dedicated approach offered by F2.