Column View Browser
A Column View Browser shows a tree across side-by-side columns. Each choice opens its children in the next column and keeps the earlier path visible.
Another example
Choosing a folder in the first column shows its child folders in the second. The third column previews the selected file.
Main parts
- 01Current location
- 02Destination labels
- 03Focus order
- 04Responsive behavior
Use it when
Use it for a deep tree. People can see the chosen path, compare each level, and switch branches quickly.
Do not use it when
Avoid it for shallow groups, long item details, or narrow windows. It also fails when people must compare many data columns.
Name used in code
AppKit NSBrowser / SwiftUI NavigationSplitView Before you ship
Check the supported macOS versions and AppKit or SwiftUI integration. Check standard focus and keyboard behavior. Also check VoiceOver, Full Keyboard Access, window resizing, and multi-window state. When needed, check restore, localization, and reduced motion.
Outcome: Apply or review Column View Browser in a native macOS app without breaking platform rules. User context: Choosing a folder in the first column shows its child folders in the second. The third column previews the selected file. macOS concept or control: Column View Browser. Why it fits: Use it for a deep tree. People can see the chosen path, compare each level, and switch branches quickly. Do not use it when: Avoid it for shallow groups, long item details, or narrow windows. It also fails when people must compare many data columns. Platform requirements: List the supported macOS versions. Say whether AppKit or SwiftUI owns each part and how they connect. Define window, menu, focus, keyboard, saved state, restore, and multi-window behavior. Platform accessibility and resilience: Use the right accessibility APIs. Check VoiceOver and Full Keyboard Access. Support localization, contrast, and reduced motion when needed. Keep user state after a relaunch. Acceptance criteria: Check the behavior on supported macOS versions with a keyboard and VoiceOver. Window resizing, focus, state restore, and AppKit or SwiftUI integration work in the normal macOS way. Evidence and limits (evidence boundary): It is official for that source. Other platforms or teams may use the term in another way. Unknowns to confirm: Supported macOS versions, AppKit or SwiftUI structure, and window model. Also confirm sandbox and entitlement limits, save rules, and the accessibility goal.
Check this request
Review the current use of Column View Browser. Definition: A Column View Browser shows a tree across side-by-side columns. Each choice opens its children in the next column and keeps the earlier path visible. Release checks: Check the supported macOS versions and AppKit or SwiftUI integration. Check standard focus and keyboard behavior. Also check VoiceOver, Full Keyboard Access, window resizing, and multi-window state. When needed, check restore, localization, and reduced motion. Before changing code, report the evidence you found, gaps, severity, and the smallest safe fix.