Why should I register my application creator code with Apple?

Mac OS X identifies applications through its signature, a unique four-character sequence. Registering your creator code with Apple ensures that your creator code is unique and will not conflict with the signature of another application.

When should I register my creator codes with Apple?

You should register your codes with Apple as early as possible. By doing so you can ensure that the creator code you want is available, and avoid having to make last minute changes to your application.

Must I be an Mac Program member to register my application code?

No. All developers are encouraged to register their creator codes with Apple.

How do I register my creator code?

Fill out the Creator Code Registration Form. Please list only one product and the associated creator code(s) per registration submission. Your creator code must consist of lower ASCII characters between decimal 32 and decimal 127 (inclusive) and cannot contain all lower case characters. To add more than one creator code for your product, click the “Add Another Code” button. If you are requesting unique creators for more than one software application, please submit one registration request for each product.

I’m receiving an error when submitting my code; what should I do?

An error will be generated if the code you are requesting is already assigned to another product. You will have to select a new code for your application.

Can Apple provide me with a list of registered creator codes and the associated application names?

The creator database contains information about both released and unreleased third party products, therefore we are unable to provide a list of registered creator codes.

How do I register file types, resource types, icons, fonts and component types?

Apple no longer registers file types, resource types, icons, fonts, and component types.

How will I know my creator code has been successfully registered?

In addition to an online confirmation, you will receive an email confirming your registration.

Where can I get more information about using creator and file type codes in my application?

Please visit the Creator Code Registration website for more information. You may also refer to Inside Macintosh: Macintosh Toolbox Essentials, chapter 7, “The Finder Interface” Macintosh Technical Note FL36: Apple Extensions to ISO 9660 also is helpful. For any additional questions, please contact us.