macOS Search Field
A macOS Search Field is a text box made for search. It has system controls for entering and clearing a query and may show recent searches.
Another example
Typing a filename filters the source list immediately. Escape clears the query and restores all items.
Main parts
- 01Persistent label
- 02Input control
- 03Hint or format
- 04Validation message
Use it when
Use it when typed words search or filter a known set. Results should update quickly and show clear empty and cleared states.
Do not use it when
Do not style commands, random filters, or exact data fields as search. Avoid slow live searches. Show progress when results take time or keep changing.
Name used in code
AppKit NSSearchField / SwiftUI searchable 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 Search Field in a native macOS app without breaking platform rules. User context: Typing a filename filters the source list immediately. Escape clears the query and restores all items. macOS concept or control: macOS Search Field. Why it fits: Use it when typed words search or filter a known set. Results should update quickly and show clear empty and cleared states. Do not use it when: Do not style commands, random filters, or exact data fields as search. Avoid slow live searches. Show progress when results take time or keep changing. 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 Search Field. Definition: A macOS Search Field is a text box made for search. It has system controls for entering and clearing a query and may show recent searches. 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.