macOS Context Menu
A macOS Context Menu is a short list of actions for the item under the pointer. It opens with a secondary click, such as a right-click.
Another example
Right-clicking a selected file shows Rename, Duplicate, Share, and Move to Trash without leaving the list.
Main parts
- 01Trigger
- 02Anchored or modal surface
- 03Focus boundary
- 04Dismiss path
Use it when
Use it for a short set of less common actions that depend on the item or selection under the pointer.
Do not use it when
Never make a context menu the only path to an important command. Keep app-wide commands away from actions for one item.
Name used in code
AppKit NSMenu / SwiftUI contextMenu 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 macOS Context Menu in a native macOS app without breaking platform rules. User context: Right-clicking a selected file shows Rename, Duplicate, Share, and Move to Trash without leaving the list. macOS concept or control: macOS Context Menu. Why it fits: Use it for a short set of less common actions that depend on the item or selection under the pointer. Do not use it when: Never make a context menu the only path to an important command. Keep app-wide commands away from actions for one item. 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 macOS Context Menu. Definition: A macOS Context Menu is a short list of actions for the item under the pointer. It opens with a secondary click, such as a right-click. 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.