macOS Pointer
The macOS Pointer is the mark that moves on screen with the mouse or trackpad. Its shape can show pointing, text entry, resize, drag, or an action that is not allowed.
Another example
Before dragging starts, pointing at a table divider changes the arrow into a horizontal resize cursor.
Main parts
- 01Visible label
- 02Interaction target
- 03Current state
- 04Keyboard behavior
Use it when
Choose a standard pointer before the action starts. It can show text, resize, drag, a link, or no action.
Do not use it when
Do not hide or replace the pointer for branding during normal use. Never show a shape that promises the wrong action. Hide it only when uninterrupted viewing or relative movement truly helps. Restore it quickly.
Name used in code
AppKit NSCursor / SwiftUI onHover 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 Pointer in a native macOS app without breaking platform rules. User context: Before dragging starts, pointing at a table divider changes the arrow into a horizontal resize cursor. macOS concept or control: macOS Pointer. Why it fits: Choose a standard pointer before the action starts. It can show text, resize, drag, a link, or no action. Do not use it when: Do not hide or replace the pointer for branding during normal use. Never show a shape that promises the wrong action. Hide it only when uninterrupted viewing or relative movement truly helps. Restore it quickly. 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 Pointer. Definition: The macOS Pointer is the mark that moves on screen with the mouse or trackpad. Its shape can show pointing, text entry, resize, drag, or an action that is not allowed. 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.