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Mac OS X retains type codes, but supports filename extensions as well. The deprecation of type codes (and Creator Code s) over the older extension system, popularised by DOS and others, has been very controversial with Mac users. The type and creator system is considerably richer and more sophisticated than that provided by extensions, and many users felt that adopting DOS conventions is a backward step. They claim that type and creator information rightfully belongs to the Metadata associated with a file, and is therefore illogically placed within the file's name, where its presence can cause problems for the user. Apple defend the decision by saying that extensions have become the ''de facto'' standard for indicating file type, and they need to work seamlessly with the rest of the industry.

Type codes are not readily accessible for users to manipulate, although they can be changed with certain software, most notably the command line tool ''SetFileInfo.''


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