# Apple Features and Software

Apple software, services, OS features, and app names: macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Apple Music, Siri, FaceTime, Apple Intelligence, accessibility features, and built-in apps.

## Entries

### accessibility
Refers to features that enable people with disabilities to successfully use Apple products and services. Capitalize the names of accessibility features. For example:

> Accessibility Keyboard, AssistiveTouch, Guided Access, Hover Text, Invert Colors, Larger Dynamic Type, Live Listen, Magnifier, Safari Reader, Speak Screen, Speak Selection, Switch Control, Text to Speech, Type to Siri, Typing Feedback, Voice Control, VoiceOver, Zoom

### access point
Also called a *wireless access point*. A device, such as a base station, that transmits and receives data in a wireless network. See also [AirPort](apple-products.md#airport).

### Active Noise Cancellation
An AirPods feature. Use *noise cancellation* in general references.

> You can switch between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode.
> When the fit of your AirPods is right, you experience better noise cancellation.

It's OK to capitalize *Noise Cancellation* to match interface text.

> Click the AirPods icon in the menu bar, then click Noise Cancellation.

After the first reference, you can abbreviate *Active Noise Cancellation* as *ANC* in AirPods model names.

> AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation feature a wireless charging case.
> AirPods 4 (ANC) feature a wireless charging case.

### Activity rings
Capitalize the names of the rings that track your daily activity in the Activity app (for example, *Stand ring*, *Exercise ring*).

### Adaptive Audio
An AirPods feature. Don't refer to as *Adaptive mode*.

> Correct: You can customize Adaptive Audio to allow more or less noise.
> Incorrect: You can customize Adaptive mode to allow more or less noise.

### administrator (n.)
A person who has administrative authority for networks, servers, databases, or other information technology assets. Don't shorten to *admin*.

To maintain the distinction between professional administrators and macOS users with administrator accounts, avoid using the noun *administrator* by itself to describe a person who has an administrator account in macOS. Instead, you can say *a user with an administrator account*—typically, the owner (or owners) of a particular Mac computer.

> Correct: To obtain a static IP address for your computer, contact your network administrator.
> Correct: You must have an administrator account to modify other user accounts on a Mac.
> Incorrect: You must be an administrator to install software.

See also [administrator (adj.)](#administrator-adj); [System Administrator](#system-administrator).

### administrator (adj.)
Use in macOS to describe the primary account (or accounts) that can create other accounts, set access privileges, install software, and make systemwide settings. OK to shorten to *admin* in server and training materials. Don't use the possessive form: *administrator's account*, *administrator's password*, or *admin's permissions*.

> Correct: Log in with an administrator account to install software.
> Correct: To give a user broad privileges on a Mac, create an admin account for the user.
> Incorrect: Log in with an administrator's account to install software.

An *administrator computer* is a computer with macOS or macOS Server that you use to manage remote servers.

See also [administrator (n.)](#administrator-n); [standard user](#standard-user); [System Administrator](#system-administrator).

### advisor, Advisor
Use *Advisor* to refer to a person in a customer-facing AppleCare Support position, including those at one of Apple's outsourced vendor sites. Don't use *agent* or *representative*. Use *advisor* if you're not referring specifically to an AppleCare Support person.

> College students can apply to be Apple At-Home Advisors.

### agent
Don't use when referring to an AppleCare Support person. See also [advisor, Advisor](#advisor-advisor).

### AirDrop
Don't use as a verb.

> Correct: You can use AirDrop to send photos, documents, and more to other Apple devices nearby.
> Incorrect: You can AirDrop photos, documents, and more to other Apple devices nearby.

### Airplane Mode
Note capitalization.

### AirPlay
Don't use as a verb.

> Correct: You can use AirPlay to stream videos from iPhone to Apple TV.
> Incorrect: You can AirPlay videos from iPhone to Apple TV.

### Animoji
Animated emoji that users can choose to represent themselves in some apps. Use *Animoji* for both singular and plural.

> Choose an Animoji to use in a FaceTime call.
> Express yourself with Animoji that mirror your facial expressions.

See also [emoji](#emoji); [Memoji](#memoji).

### Apple Account
The account that people use to access all Apple services, including the App Store, iCloud, iMessage, and FaceTime. This account was formerly known as *Apple ID*.

> Correct: An Apple Account gives you access to all Apple services.
> Incorrect: An Apple ID gives you access to all Apple services.

People sign in *to* their Apple Account; they don't sign in *with* their account to devices, stores, or other resources.

> Correct: Sign in to your Apple Account on all your devices.
> Incorrect: Sign in with your Apple Account on all your devices.

If you used *Apple ID* to refer to the email address or phone number associated with a person's account, replace it with *email address or phone number* (not *Apple Account*).

> Correct: Enter your email address or phone number, and then enter your password.
> Incorrect: Enter your Apple Account, and then enter your password.

If it's not clear from the context which email address or phone number you're referring to, you can use wording like *your Apple Account email address or phone number* or *the email address or phone number associated with your Apple Account*.

You can shorten *Apple Account* to just *account* to save space or avoid repetition.

> After you sign in to your Apple Account, you can update your account settings.

Don't use terms like *iCloud account*, *iTunes Store account*, or *App Store account*; people only have an Apple Account, and they sign in to it to use services like iCloud, the iTunes Store, and the App Store.

See also [child's Apple Account](#childs-apple-account); [Managed Apple Account](#managed-apple-account).

### Apple-authorized (adj.), Apple authorized (pred. adj.)
OK to use in general references to Apple authorization: *Apple-authorized procedure*. No hyphen in proper names: *Apple Authorized Reseller*.

### Apple Authorized Reseller
Use the full term unless many references are required; in that case you can shorten to *reseller*.

### Apple Authorized Service Provider
Use the full term unless many references are required; in that case you can shorten to *AASP*.

### Apple Books
You can use *Apple Books* to refer to the app and service that let users purchase, download, and read ebooks.

> You can see your Apple Books purchases on all your devices.
> To see what's trending, check the top charts in Apple Books.

When you refer to the app specifically, you can use *the Books app* or just *Books*.

> To see all your books, click Library in the Books app.
> To search for new books, open Books and tap Book Store.

In text, don't write the name *Apple Books* by combining the Apple symbol with *Books*.

See also [Apple logo](#apple-logo); [Book Store](#book-store); [ebook (n.)](word-choice-and-confusables.md#ebook-n); [iBooks](#ibooks).

### Apple Card
Don't precede with *the* or *an*. OK to use alone or in terms such as *Apple Card account*.

> Find out about the great features of Apple Card.
> Sign in to make payments on your Apple Card account.

See also [Apple Cash Family](#apple-cash-family); [Daily Cash](#daily-cash).

### Apple Card Family
Note capitalization.

> Apple Card Family brings the great features of Apple Card to your entire family.

### Apple Cash
An account in Wallet for sending and receiving payments, making purchases, and receiving Daily Cash from Apple Card purchases. OK to use alone or in terms such as *Apple Cash account* and *Apple Cash card*.

> Use Apple Cash to easily send and receive money.
> With just a few taps, you can add money to your Apple Cash account.

See also [Apple Card](#apple-card); [Daily Cash](#daily-cash).

### Apple Cash Family
Note capitalization.

> Apple Cash Family lets you set up Apple Cash for the children in your family.

### Apple Diagnostics
A built-in utility that can be used to test Mac computers for hardware issues.

### Apple event
Capitalize the names of Apple events (but not the word *event*): *Open Application event*, *Quit Application event*, *Open Documents event*, *Print Documents event*, and so on. See also [events, Events](#events-events).

### Apple Fitness+
A subscription service that provides a catalog of workouts led by expert trainers. Don't use *Apple Fitness Plus* or other variations.

In text, don't write the name *Apple Fitness+* by combining the Apple symbol with *Fitness+*. Use regular punctuation after the name.

> Correct: Get started with Apple Fitness+.
> Incorrect: Get started with [Apple]Fitness+.

See also [Apple logo](#apple-logo).

### Apple Gift Card
OK to use *card* or *gift card* after the first reference.

### Apple ID
Don't use; use *Apple Account*. See also [Apple Account](#apple-account).

### Apple Intelligence
Apple's personal intelligence system built into many devices, including some models of iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro. Don't abbreviate as *AI*.

> Apple Intelligence unlocks new ways for users to enhance their writing and communicate more effectively.
> With Apple Intelligence, you can create fun, original images using Image Playground.

Apple Intelligence features include Clean Up, Genmoji, Image Playground, Image Wand, Reduce Interruptions, Smart Reply, and Writing Tools. See also entries for individual features.

### Apple logo
In the phrase *Apple logo*, use lowercase for the word *logo*.

In text, don't use the Apple symbol in place of the word *Apple*, and don't write product or service names (like *Apple News+*) by combining the Apple symbol with text.

> Correct: Subscribe to Apple News+.
> Incorrect: Subscribe to [Apple]News+.

Combinations of a product name and logo—known as *product lockups*—are carefully designed graphics approved by Apple Marketing. For information about how to use product lockups and the Apple logo, see Guidelines for using the Apple logo.

### Apple Loops
Always plural; not *an Apple Loop*. An open-standard file format for audio loops and sound effects; also refers to the audio and effects files.

### Apple Loops Utility
Note plural *Loops*.

### Apple Lossless
Note capitalization. The audio compression format.

### Apple menu
When you refer to the Apple menu in user materials, you can include the Apple symbol with the phrase *Apple menu* on first occurrence.

> The Apple menu [Apple] is located in the top-left corner of your screen.

If your department uses parentheses around inline icons, treat the Apple logo the same way.

> To restart your computer, choose Apple menu ([Apple]) > Restart.

After the first occurrence, use the phrase *Apple menu* without the symbol. Don't replace the word *Apple* with the Apple symbol.

> Correct: You can open the App Store from the Apple menu.
> Incorrect: To restart your computer, choose [Apple] menu > Restart.

### Apple Music
You can use *Apple Music* to refer to the app and service that let users discover, play, and download music.

> With Apple Music, you can stream your favorite music ad-free.
> Apple Music learns what you like and recommends music based on your tastes.

When you refer to the app specifically, you can use *the Music app* or just *Music*.

> To listen to Apple Music radio, tap Radio in the Music app.
> Open Music, and then tap Listen Now.

Users *subscribe* to Apple Music and become Apple Music *subscribers* (not *members*).

In text, don't write the name *Apple Music* by combining the Apple symbol with *Music*.

See also [Apple logo](#apple-logo).

### Apple News
You can use *Apple News* to refer to the app and service that let users read stories from a variety of news sources.

> Experienced Apple News editors curate the day's top stories.
> Apple News learns your interests as you read, and suggests relevant stories.

When you refer to the app specifically, you can use *the News app* or just *News*.

See also [Apple logo](#apple-logo).

### Apple News+
A subscription service that provides complete issues of magazines and newspapers, along with the features of Apple News. Don't use *Apple News Plus* or other variations.

In text, don't write the name *Apple News+* by combining the Apple symbol with *News+*. Use regular punctuation after the name.

See also [Apple logo](#apple-logo).

### Apple Online Store
Don't use. To refer to Apple's main website as a place to purchase products, say something like *Shop online at apple.com* or *Visit the Apple website*. See also [App Store](#app-store).

### Apple Original
Use *Apple Originals* or *an Apple Original* to refer to content that's produced by Apple and available from Apple TV+.

> With an Apple TV+ subscription, you can catch the latest Apple Originals.
> Watch *For All Mankind*, an Apple Original, from Apple TV+.

See also [Apple TV+](#apple-tv).

### Apple Pay
In text, don't write the name *Apple Pay* by combining the Apple symbol with the word *Pay*.

> Correct: Find out where you can use Apple Pay.
> Incorrect: Find out where you can use [Apple]Pay.

See also [Apple logo](#apple-logo).

### Apple Pencil hover
Note capitalization.

> With Apple Pencil hover, you can quickly preview and switch between different tools and controls.

Don't use *hover* as a verb when describing the feature.

> Correct: Hold Apple Pencil over the drawing area.
> Incorrect: Hover Apple Pencil over the drawing area.

### Apple Push Notification service
See [APNs](abbreviations-and-acronyms.md#apns).

### Apple Retail Store
Don't use. See also [Apple Store](#apple-store).

### AppleScript
AppleScript is used to create a *script* or *scripts*, not an *AppleScript* or *AppleScripts*. Don't use terms such as *AppleScriptable* or *AppleScripting*.

### Apple services
Note lowercase *services*.

> With a single subscription, customers can enjoy their favorite Apple services across all their devices.
> A single Apple Account gives you access to all Apple services.

### Apple Store
Use *Apple Store* to refer to Apple retail stores. After the first reference, you can use the full name or shorten to *store*. It's OK to use terms such as *retail store* and *retail location*; don't use *Apple Retail Store*.

Precede *Apple Store* with an article or pronoun in text: *the Apple Store*, *an Apple Store*, *your local Apple Store*.

Don't use *Apple Store* in the plural or possessive form. For the plural, use a term such as *Apple Store locations* or simply *stores*; for the possessive, use *store's*.

To refer to a specific Apple Store, use *Apple* followed by the store name.

> Apple Union Square opened on May 21, 2016.

Products and services are available *at*, *from*, *in*, or *through* the Apple Store.

### Apple Store app
An app for iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS that offers users a more personal way to shop for Apple products and accessories.

### Apple Support
Capitalize in reference to Apple's service and support resources and staff; use lowercase in general references to support.

> Contact Apple Support for assistance with your new Mac.
> You can get hands-on technical support for your Apple products at the Genius Bar.

### Apple Trade In
Capitalize and don't use a hyphen when referring to the Apple program. Use *trade-in* (n., adj.) and *trade in* (v.) in general references.

> Apple Trade In makes it easy to trade in your device.

### Apple TV+
The streaming subscription service. Don't use *Apple tv+*, *Apple TV Plus*, or other variations. In text, don't write the name *Apple TV+* by combining the Apple symbol with *TV+*. Use regular punctuation after the name.

> Correct: Get started with Apple TV+.
> Incorrect: Get started with [Apple]TV+.

Users subscribe *to* Apple TV+, and they can watch content *from* Apple TV+, *on* the Apple TV app.

> Correct: Subscribe to Apple TV+ on the Apple TV app.
> Correct: Catch up on *For All Mankind* from Apple TV+ on the Apple TV app.
> Incorrect: Subscribe on Apple TV+.
> Incorrect: You can watch *For All Mankind* in Apple TV+.

OK to use as an adjective: *Apple TV+ subscription*, *Apple TV+ content*.

See also [Apple logo](#apple-logo); [Apple Original](#apple-original).

### Apple website
To refer to the Apple website address, you can use *the Apple website*, *Apple's website*, or *apple.com*. Use lowercase *apple.com* in text and in sentence-style headings; capitalize at the beginning of a sentence or heading and in title-style headings.

> Visit apple.com for information about Apple products and services.
> You can buy iPad on the Apple website at apple.com.
> Apple.com is your source for great Apple products.

See also *internet addresses*.

### App Library
Don't precede with *the*.

> You can use App Library to organize your Home Screen.

### App Store
Apps are available *in*, *on*, or *from* the App Store. Precede the name with an article in text.

> Find the item you want on the App Store.
> You can purchase apps from the App Store.

In most cases, you can use just *App Store*. If you need to be more specific, you can use *App Store for iPhone*, *App Store for iPad*, *Mac App Store*, *App Store for Apple TV*, *App Store for Apple Vision Pro*, *App Store for Apple Watch*, or *App Store for iMessage*. Avoid constructions like *Apple Watch App Store* and *Apple TV App Store*.

If you need to refer collectively to the App Store, the iTunes Store, and Apple Books, you can use *Apple online stores* (but it's preferable to list them).

See also [Mac App Store](#mac-app-store).

### app names
Follow the style of the software itself for capitalization and spaces—for example, *TextEdit*, *Image Capture*, *DigitalColor Meter*, *iMovie*. In general, don't use *the* with app names (*the Finder* is an exception).

> Correct: Open QuickTime Player.
> Incorrect: Open the QuickTime Player.

### app, application, program
An app (short for *application*) is a computer program that performs a specific task, such as a word processor, game, and so on.

Use *app* when referring to apps for iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, visionOS, and watchOS.

> Tap a photo to open it in the Photos app.

In most cases, you can use *app* instead of *application* to refer to software for the Mac, but be consistent within a document.

Some apps have versions that work on multiple platforms. To distinguish between versions of an app, use *[app name] for [platform]*.

> Learn about the new features of Pages for iOS and iPadOS.
> You can add tracks to a song in GarageBand for Mac.

In general, use *program* only to refer to software that doesn't have a graphical user interface.

> The `launchd` program consolidates all system startup activities into a single program.

See also [software development kit](abbreviations-and-acronyms.md#sdk); [system software](#system-software).

### Application Chooser menu
In VoiceOver, a menu for navigating among open apps. The menu appears when the user presses Control-Option-F1 twice.

### application menu
The menu to the right of the Apple menu. The app menu shows the app name in boldface.

You don't need to include the word *application* or *app* when you refer to a specific app menu.

> Commands for hiding Mail and for showing and hiding other apps are in the Mail menu.

### Applications folder
Use *the Applications folder* to refer to the Applications folder located at the top level of the file system and accessible to all users of a computer. Use *your Applications folder* or *a user's Applications folder* to refer to the Applications folder located in the user's home folder.

### Apps View
The view on Apple Vision Pro where you see your apps. See also [Environments View](#environments-view); [Home View](#home-view); [People View](#people-view).

### Ask to Buy
A feature of Family Sharing that allows the family organizer to control family members' purchases. Don't enclose the name in quotation marks.

> Ask to Buy is available for any family member under age 18.

See also [Family Sharing](#family-sharing).

### Assistant
Capitalize, and don't use *the*, when the word is part of a full name.

> Use AirPort Setup Assistant to…

Use lowercase when you use the term by itself or generically.

> Use the assistant to…
> You can use assistants to…

### Assistive Access
A feature that makes it easier for people with cognitive disabilities to use iPhone independently. Use *trusted supporter* to refer to the person who sets up Assistive Access.

> A trusted supporter can help set up and personalize Assistive Access for the person who will be using it.

You *enter* and *exit* Assistive Access; you don't *start*, *open*, *quit*, or *leave* it.

### Auto Exposure
An iOS camera feature. Use *autoexposure* to refer to automatic exposure in general.

### AutoFill
The Safari feature. Use *autofill* for the verb.

> If you don't want Safari to autofill your information, turn off AutoFill in Safari settings.

### Auto Focus
An iOS camera feature. Use *autofocus* to refer to automatic focusing in general.

### autoplay, Autoplay
The feature is lowercase; the button name is capitalized.

### autosave
Use only as an adjective (*the autosave feature*). Don't use as a verb.

> Correct: Pages saves your changes automatically.
> Incorrect: Pages autosaves your changes.

### Auto Unlock
Use only as the feature name; don't use as a verb.

> Correct: When Auto Unlock is on, you can unlock your Mac with your Apple Watch.
> Incorrect: You can use your Apple Watch to Auto Unlock your Mac when you wake it.

### Blue appearance
An appearance available in macOS.

### Bluetooth
Don't use *Bluetooth* as a noun.

> Correct: If your computer didn't come with an internal Bluetooth module, you can have one installed by an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
> Correct: Your computer can connect to and transfer information to devices that use Bluetooth wireless technology.
> Incorrect: Your computer can connect to devices that use Bluetooth.

Don't use a hyphen with *Bluetooth*.

> Correct: Bluetooth enabled device
> Incorrect: Bluetooth-enabled device

### Books
See [Apple Books](#apple-books).

### Book Store
In most cases, simply use *Apple Books* to refer to the service that lets users purchase, download, and read ebooks.

> You can find the user guide on Apple Books.
> Family members can share items they purchased from the App Store, the iTunes Store, and Apple Books.

If you need to differentiate the store from the app, you can use *the Book Store*, *the store in Apple Books*, or *the Book Store in Apple Books*.

Don't use *Apple Books store*, *Apple Books Store*, *Apple Book Store*, or *Apple Bookstore*. Items are available *in*, *on*, or *from* the Book Store.

See also [Apple Books](#apple-books).

### Calendar
Capitalize when referring to the app name: *You can import your data into Calendar*. Use lowercase to refer to a user's calendar: *add events to your calendar*, *create calendars for work and home*. See also [iCloud](#icloud).

### CarPlay
Don't use as a verb.

> Correct: You can use CarPlay to play audiobooks from your iPhone.
> Incorrect: You can CarPlay audiobooks from your iPhone.

Users can connect devices *to* CarPlay and do tasks *with* CarPlay.

> Connect your iPhone to CarPlay.
> You can play music and make phone calls with CarPlay.

Users can open apps and change settings *in* CarPlay.

> Open Maps in CarPlay and select a route.
> You can change the map view in CarPlay.

### Check In
A feature that alerts a friend or family member that your device has reached a destination or you've completed a workout. Use to refer to both the feature and what you send using the feature.

> Check In notifies your friend when your workout is completed.
> If you need extra time, you can add time to your Check In.

Don't use *Check In* as a verb; use *send a Check In* or similar.

> Correct: Use the Messages app to send a Check In to a friend.
> Incorrect: Use the Messages app to Check In with a friend.

When discussing other features that allow you to check in (for example, checking in to a hotel room using the Wallet app), hyphenate *check-in* as a noun and adjective; don't hyphenate the verb form.

> When check-in is available, you can use the Wallet app to check in to your room.

### child's Apple Account
Use to refer to an Apple Account that's set up for a child as part of a Family Sharing group. Don't use *child Apple Account*.

> Correct: You can change the password for a child's Apple Account.
> Incorrect: You can change the password for a child Apple Account.

See also [Apple Account](#apple-account); [Family Sharing](#family-sharing).

### Clean Up
An Apple Intelligence feature. You can use the name with or without *tool*.

> Remove distractions from your photos with the Clean Up tool.
> Clean Up is available in macOS 15.1 or later.

Use *cleanup* (n., adj.) and *clean up* (v.) in general references.

> Correct: Clean up distractions in the background of your photos.
> Incorrect: Clean Up distractions in the background of your photos.

### Clipboard
In user materials, use *Clipboard*, not *pasteboard*. In developer materials, it's OK to use *pasteboard* when you discuss the NSPasteboard class, but point out that users view the contents of the pasteboard in the Clipboard.

### cloud
Avoid using *the cloud* to refer to iCloud. However, you can say content is *in the cloud* if the context makes clear you're referring to iCloud.

> With iCloud, you can store all of your content in the cloud so it's available anytime, anywhere.

See also [iCloud](#icloud).

### Compass Waypoints
The feature name. You can use *Compass Waypoint* or just *waypoint* to refer to an individual waypoint. Don't use *compass waypoint*.

> Use Compass Waypoints to mark locations of interest, and then view the elevation of each waypoint relative to your current location.
> You can use the Action button to drop a Compass Waypoint.

### contacts, Contacts
Use lowercase to refer to a user's collection of contacts: *Add a contact*, *update your contacts*. Capitalize when referring to the app name: *Use Contacts to call someone*, *get help using Contacts*. See also [iCloud](#icloud).

### Crash Detection
Note capitalization.

> Crash Detection is turned on by default.

### Daily Cash
An Apple Card feature that adds a percentage of every purchase amount to the user's Apple Cash account. You can use *Daily Cash* to refer to the feature or to the cash received. See also [Apple Card](#apple-card); [Apple Cash Family](#apple-cash-family).

### Dark Mode
Note capitalization.

> You can use Dark Mode to darken the color scheme so the content you're working on stands out.

Users can *turn on* or *turn off* Dark Mode and *use* Dark Mode. Don't describe a computer or device as *using Dark Mode* or being *in Dark Mode*.

> Correct: When Dark Mode is turned on, you can still use a light background in your emails.
> Correct: If you're using Dark Mode…
> Incorrect: If your iPhone is using Dark Mode…

You can also refer to Dark Mode as *the dark appearance*. The alternative is *the light appearance* (not *Light Mode*).

> Open System Settings, click Appearance, and then select the light or dark appearance.

### Dashboard
Don't precede *Dashboard* with *the* or *your*. See also [widget](#widget).

### data
Singular or plural, depending on the context. When used as a collective noun, *data* takes a singular verb. When the meaning isn't collective, use a plural verb. In user materials, avoid in favor of *information* if *information* makes sense in the context.

> Collective and thus singular: Data is stored in a FileMaker Pro database.
> Not collective and thus plural: Selected data are transferred immediately.

### device
Use to refer generically to hardware that connects to a computer (*communications device*, *input device*, *mobile device*, *peripheral device*).

You can also use *device*:

- To refer to a category of hardware products: *iOS device*, *iPadOS device*, *iOS and iPadOS devices*, *Android device*
- To refer to more than one of a specific device (to avoid making a trademarked name plural)

> Correct: If you have multiple iPad devices, you can…
> Incorrect: If you have multiple iPads, you can…

- To refer to Mac computers in conjunction with iPhone, iPad, and other devices when no distinction is needed

> iCloud keeps your documents updated across all your devices.
> When you add a photo on your Mac, it appears on your other devices.

In user materials, when you write about a specific device, use that device's name (such as *Mac* or *Apple Watch*) in most cases. In service documentation, if a device name is repeated frequently and it's clear from the context what the device is, it's OK to shorten to *device*, or to another acceptable short form—for example, *computer* instead of *Mac*, or *watch* instead of *Apple Watch*.

See also [mobile device](#mobile-device); [product](#product); *unit*.

### Digital Touch
A feature for adding effects (such as a kiss or a heartbeat) to messages in the Messages app for watchOS and iOS.

> You can use Digital Touch to send your heartbeat to a friend.
> To send a kiss, tap with two fingers.

You can refer to items users send as *Digital Touch effects*, or simply use the name of the effect—for example, *heartbeat*, *kiss*, or *sketch* (not *doodle*). See also [tap (n., v.)](voice-and-tone.md#tap-n-v).

### disk
Use to refer to magnetic storage media such as hard disks. You can also use *disk* more broadly to include other types of computer storage media, such as solid-state drives and flash storage. For example, legacy terms such as *startup disk*, *disk partition*, *disk image*, and *target disk mode* are commonly used regardless of the type of storage.

You can often use a more general term, such as *computer* or *storage space*.

> You can import media files stored on your computer.
> You can delete files to free up storage space.

In user materials, don't omit the article in phrases such as *to a disk* or *on a disk*.

> Correct: You can copy the files to a disk.
> Incorrect: You can copy the files to disk.

For optical storage media (such as CDs and DVDs), use *disc*.

See also [volume (disk)](#disk).

### Do Not Disturb
Note capitalization.

> To stop notifications, turn on Do Not Disturb.

### Downtime
Capitalize when referring to the feature or to the names of interface elements. Use lowercase in generic references.

> You can use the Downtime feature to schedule time away from the screen for young family members.
> During downtime, app icons are dimmed and an hourglass icon is shown.

### download (n., v.), downloadable (adj.)
Use only to refer to user-initiated downloads of content.

> You can download music you've already purchased to all your devices.

Avoid using *download* to refer to what iCloud does; instead, use an alternative such as *keep up to date*, or say that content *appears automatically*.

> Avoid: iCloud downloads your new photos to all your devices.
> Preferable: iCloud keeps your photos up to date on all your devices.

See also [iCloud](#icloud).

### Dynamic Island
Precede with *the*.

> The Dynamic Island appears whenever your iPhone is unlocked.

### Emergency SOS
The feature that makes an emergency call. Note capitalization. Use *emergency call*, not *emergency SOS call*, to refer to the type of call placed by this feature.

> With Emergency SOS, you can quickly and easily call for help.
> To make an emergency call, press and hold the side button, and then drag the Emergency SOS slider.

### emoji
Lowercase; same form for singular and plural. Use to refer to small symbols (such as a smiley face) that represent emotions, concepts, or common objects in email and other electronic communications.

> For some emoji, such as those for people, you can click and hold the emoji to see variations.
> If you don't see the emoji keyboard, you can turn it on in Settings.

Use regular punctuation with emoji that appear in running text.

It's OK to omit punctuation in special cases, such as the Tips notification.

See also [emoticon](#emoticon).

### emoticon
A representation of an emotion or a facial expression created with typographic characters or small symbols.

> The emoticon :-) represents a smiley face.

In general, use *emoji* to refer to characters created using an emoji input method (such as the Touch Bar), even though some emoji are also emoticons.

Use regular punctuation with emoticons that appear in running text.

See also [emoji](#emoji).

### email alias
Use to refer to an alternate email address created by a user to mask the user's main email address.

> You can have up to three active email aliases.
> You can also send email from an alias.

### Environment
An experience on Apple Vision Pro that transforms a physical space into a different setting. Capitalize *Environment* when referring to both systemwide Environments (such as Mount Hood) and Environments in Apple apps (such as Conference Room in Keynote).

> Some Environments that come with Apple Vision Pro include sound effects.
> You can use the Cinema Environment to watch movies in the Apple TV app.

Use lowercase *environment* when referring to custom environments in third-party apps.

### Environments View
The view on Apple Vision Pro where you can choose an Environment. See also [Apps View](#apps-view); [Home View](#home-view); [People View](#people-view).

### events, Events
Use lowercase in generic references to events. Capitalize when referring to the feature in an app such as iMovie, and to capitalized interface elements.

> You can use events to group clips any way you like.
> To sort events chronologically, choose View > Sort Events By > Oldest to Newest.

### EyeSight
Apple Vision Pro technology that reveals your eyes on the front display and lets others know when you're using apps or are immersed in an experience. Don't precede with *the*.

> EyeSight shows your eyes to others when you're using Apple Vision Pro.

Don't use *EyeSight* to refer to the front display of Apple Vision Pro; instead use *the front display* or just *the front*.

> The Apple logo appears on the front of Apple Vision Pro while it turns on.

### Face ID
A face recognition technology used for authentication in some iOS and iPadOS devices.

### FaceTime
Don't use as a verb.

### Fall Detection
Note capitalization.

> You can choose to have Fall Detection on only during workouts.

### family controls
Don't use; use *parental controls*.

### family pack
Use lowercase in general references: *a family pack*. Capitalize in product names.

### Family Sharing
The iCloud feature. Don't use *iCloud Family Sharing*.

The person who sets up the family group is the *family organizer*; users added to the family group are *family members*.

On first occurrence, refer to the family the organizer sets up as *the family group*. Thereafter you can use simply *the family*, as long as the context makes it clear you're referring to Family Sharing (not to an actual family).

> The family organizer sets up Family Sharing and invites people to join the family group.
> Family members' purchases are available to the rest of the family.

See also [Ask to Buy](#ask-to-buy); [child's Apple Account](#childs-apple-account).

### Favorites
Capitalize only when referring to the Favorites feature or to an onscreen element.

> With Favorites, you can make a call with a single tap.
> To make a contact a favorite…
> To add someone to your Favorites list…

### Files app
An app on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro used to access files stored in iCloud Drive or on external devices or servers. In iOS 10 or earlier, the app was called the *iCloud Drive app*.

### FileMaker
Note capitalization.

### Finder
Use *the* with *Finder* (exception to the rule to not use *the* with app names).

### Focus
Capitalize *Focus* when referring to the overall feature or to an individual Focus. Don't use an article when referring to the feature, but use an article when referring to an individual Focus.

> Focus lets you tune out distractions.
> Click Add, and then choose a Focus.

Capitalize the names of provided Focus options (*the Sleep Focus*, *the Driving Focus*). Don't use the plural (*Focuses*); use *Focus options*.

Users can *choose*, *turn on*, or *use* a Focus (don't use *activate*). To stop using a Focus, users *turn it off*.

> Correct: Turn a Focus on or off in Control Center.
> Correct: Use the Work Focus to work without distractions.
> Incorrect: Activate a Focus in Control Center.

When a Focus is on, use *on* or *active* to describe it (don't use *turned on*).

> Correct: When a Focus is active…
> Incorrect: When a Focus is turned on…

See also [Reduce Interruptions](#reduce-interruptions).

### Focus filters
Note capitalization.

> Use Focus filters to hide specific content in some apps while you're using a Focus.

### Genius
An Apple Music feature that plays songs that go well together. *Genius* can be used alone (don't precede the) or in terms such as the following:

> Genius feature, Genius Mix, Genius Playlist, Genius recommendations

### Genmoji
An Apple Intelligence feature. Use *Genmoji* for both singular and plural.

> Learn how to create a Genmoji based on a photo from your photo library.
> You can add Genmoji to your messages.

See also [Animoji](#animoji); [emoji](#emoji); [Memoji](#memoji).

### Grab
Capitalize when referring to the Grab app. Don't use as a verb.

### Guest User
Capitalize when referring to the feature that lets you temporarily share Apple Vision Pro with a guest. To refer to the guest, use *guest user* or just *guest*. Don't use *Guest User Mode* or *Guest Mode*.

> With Guest User, other people can use your Apple Vision Pro, and you choose which apps they can open.
> The guest may need to adjust the fit before using your Apple Vision Pro.

### Guided Access
A feature that lets you restrict a device to one app and control which of the app's features are available. You *start* and *end* a Guided Access session.

> Before you start a Guided Access session, open the app you want to use.

### Guides
Capitalize when referring to Guides offered in the Maps app by Apple and its partners.

> You can save Guides, and they're updated automatically when new locations are added.

Use lowercase when referring to guides users create in the Maps app.

> You can organize places into your own guides and share them with friends.

### hearing health
A set of features on AirPods Pro 2. Hearing health features include the following:

- *Hearing Aid:* Use the name with *feature*.

> You need AirPods Pro 2 to use the Hearing Aid feature.

- *Hearing Protection:* You can use the name with or without *feature*.

> Before using the Hearing Protection feature, make sure your AirPods have the proper fit.
> Hearing Protection is on by default when you use Transparency mode.

- *Hearing Test:* You can use the name with or without *feature*. OK to shorten to just *test* if it's clear in context what you're referring to.

> Learn how to use the Hearing Test feature on your AirPods Pro 2.
> Take a Hearing Test with your AirPods Pro 2.
> After taking a Hearing Test, you can retake the test whenever you want.

In general references—when you're not discussing the Apple features specifically—use lowercase.

> You can use compatible hearing aids with iPhone.

### help
Don't use when referring to documentation that has *user guide* in its title—even if the user guide can be opened from the Help menu.

> To view the Safari User Guide, choose Help > Safari Help.

In developer materials, it's OK to use *help* and *help book* when referring to documentation delivered in Help Viewer on Mac.

### Home button
The physical button on some iOS and iPadOS devices that returns the user to the Home Screen. For devices with a Home button, use *press* to mean pressing the Home button once; use *double-click* or *triple-click* to mean pressing it more than once.

### Home Screen
The main screen on iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV, and one of the two main screens on Apple Watch (the other is the watch face).

The Home Screen contains icons representing the apps on the device. On some devices, you can browse between *pages* of the Home Screen.

> The Home Screen on Apple TV provides easy access to apps and settings.
> The dots above the Dock show how many Home Screen pages you have and which one you're viewing.

### Home View
The main view on Apple Vision Pro. From Home View, you can navigate between Apps View, Environments View, and People View. While viewing your apps, you can browse between *pages* in Home View.

> To quickly return to the first page of apps, tap Apps [icon] in the tab bar.

### Hover Text
Note capitalization. It's OK to use *Hover Text* to refer to the accessibility feature, but when writing instructions or describing how to use the feature, use alternatives like *hold the pointer over*.

> Hover Text makes it easier to view text on the screen.
> To use Hover Text, press the Control key and hold the pointer over any text.

See also [hover (v.)](voice-and-tone.md#hover-v).

### humor
Humor can enhance documentation by adding to a reader's enjoyment and by helping to lighten the tone. Humor usually works best in examples, where it's less likely to distract the reader.

Be careful that your humor is in good taste—one reader's joke can be another reader's insult—and keep in mind that humor may not translate well in localized text.

### iBooks
Use *iBooks* to refer to versions of the Apple ebook app released before iOS 12 and macOS Mojave. Use *Apple Books* for versions of the app released with iOS 12 or later and macOS Mojave or later. See also [Apple Books](#apple-books).

### iCloud
Capitalize the *C* in *iCloud* in all references to iCloud or the iCloud website (*iCloud.com*). Don't capitalize the *C* in email addresses or when giving the URL for a particular domain of the iCloud website (*icloud.com/calendar*).

> To sign up for iCloud, go to iCloud.com.
> Enter the recipient's email address (for example, j.appleseed@icloud.com).

In user materials, avoid referring to iCloud as a *service*; simply call it *iCloud*. In addition, avoid referring to iCloud features (such as iCloud Mail, iCloud Calendar, or Find My) as *services* or *web apps*; refer to them as *features*, or simply discuss each feature by its name.

- *In or on:* Use *in* to refer to where content is stored (*in* iCloud, *in* iCloud Drive); use *on* to refer to where users can access content (*on* iCloud.com).

> You can store files in iCloud Drive and access them from any device or on iCloud.com.

You can say content is *in the cloud* if the context makes it clear you're referring to iCloud.

> With iCloud, you can store all of your content in the cloud and access it wherever you go.

- *Signing in:* To access iCloud features, users *sign in to* their Apple Account. Don't use *sign in to iCloud*.

> Correct: Your music library is available on all your devices where you're signed in to the same Apple Account.
> Incorrect: Your music library is available on all your devices where you're signed in to iCloud.

*Exception:* Users *sign in to* or *sign out of* the iCloud.com website.

Don't use the term *iCloud account*.

> Correct: If you use iCloud, you can share a reminder list with other iCloud users.
> Incorrect: If you have an iCloud account, you can share a reminder list with other iCloud users.

See also [Apple Account](#apple-account).

- *What iCloud does:* iCloud *syncs* content between the user's device and the cloud. Use *sync with* to refer generally to syncing devices with iCloud.

> Sync the photos and videos on your iPhone with iCloud.

In most cases, use *sync to*—not *upload* and *download*—to refer to the transfer of content to iCloud from a device, or vice versa.

> While photos are being synced to iCloud…

However, you can use *upload* or *download* to refer to one-time transfers of content.

> To upload files to iCloud Drive, drag them to the iCloud Drive window.
> You can download the original photos from iCloud whenever you need them.

Don't say that iCloud syncs devices *with each other*; instead, describe content as being *available from every device*, *updated automatically across all your devices*, and similar alternatives.

> iCloud keeps your contacts up to date across all your devices.
> Any photos you take appear automatically on every device.

It's OK to occasionally use phrases like *iCloud keeps your data in sync*.

- *iCloud storage:* Users *upgrade* their iCloud storage; they don't *purchase storage* or *increase their storage quota*. Don't use *iCloud storage* to refer to iCloud (*you can store your documents in iCloud*, not *you can store your documents in iCloud storage*).

See also [iCloud Drive](#icloud-drive); [iCloud Photos](#icloud-photos); [Shared Albums](#shared-albums).

### iCloud Drive
An iCloud feature that allows users to store documents in iCloud and access them from multiple computers and devices. Documents are stored *in* iCloud Drive, or saved or moved *to* iCloud Drive.

> When you turn on iCloud Drive, documents you've already stored in iCloud are moved to iCloud Drive.

iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro users access files in iCloud Drive using the Files app.

### iCloud Photo Library
Don't use; use *iCloud Photos*. See also [iCloud Photos](#icloud-photos); [iCloud Shared Photo Library](#icloud-shared-photo-library).

### iCloud Photos
An iCloud feature that stores users' photos in iCloud and keeps them up to date on every device with iCloud Photos turned on. Don't use *iCloud Photo Library*, *iCloud photo library*, or *your iCloud Photos*. You *turn on* or *turn off* iCloud Photos. Photos are *stored in* iCloud, not *backed up to* iCloud Photos. See also [iCloud](#icloud).

### iCloud Photo Sharing
Don't use; use *Shared Albums*. See also [Shared Albums](#shared-albums).

### iCloud+
A subscription service that provides additional iCloud features and storage. Don't use *iCloud Plus* or other variations.

> When you upgrade to iCloud+, you get even more storage, along with enhanced privacy features.

### iCloud Shared Photo Library
Use the full name when referring to the feature. It's OK to use *Shared Photo Library* or *shared library* to refer to an individual shared library. Use *personal library* to refer to someone's personal photo library.

> iCloud Shared Photo Library lets you share photos and videos with up to five other people.
> You can switch between your shared library and your personal library.

See also [Shared Albums](#shared-albums).

### iCloud Tabs button
Use to refer to the button users can add to the Safari toolbar.

### iMessage
Apple's secure messaging service for sending and receiving messages in the Messages app. Use only to refer to the service. Users send *a message* or *messages*, not *an iMessage* or *iMessages*.

> Correct: You can send messages using iMessage.
> Correct: You can turn on iMessage in Messages settings.
> Incorrect: If you get an iMessage that looks like spam, you can report it to Apple.

See also [message](#message).

### iMovie
Don't use *iMovie* when you mean *movie* or *project*.

> Correct: You can share your movie on YouTube.
> Incorrect: You can share your iMovie on YouTube.

See also [movie](#movie).

### Image Playground
An Apple Intelligence feature. Refers to both the app and the feature within other apps. You can refer to the in-app feature as an *experience*.

> Create unique images in the Image Playground app.
> You can use Image Playground in apps like Messages and Freeform.
> With the Image Playground experience in Messages, you can quickly create fun images for your friends.

### Image Wand
An Apple Intelligence feature. Don't precede with *the*.

> Image Wand can transform your rough sketch into a related image.
> You can use Image Wand to create images based on the surrounding content.

### Important
Use an Important notice to alert the reader to significant potential trouble spots that don't cause bodily injury, damage, or loss of data. (Those situations require a Warning notice.)

Use Important notices and other notices sparingly; they lose effectiveness if they appear too often. Avoid using an Important notice immediately before or after a note, Warning notice, or another Important notice, or immediately after a text heading.

See also [Note](#note); [Warning](#warning).

### Input menu
A menu on the right side of the macOS menu bar that allows users to select the language and input method to use on their Mac.

### install
You install items *on* a disk, not *onto* a disk. Don't use *install* as a noun.

### installation
Don't use *install* when you mean *installation*.

> Correct: Click Download to start the installation process.
> Incorrect: Click Download to start the install process.

### installer, Installer
Capitalize when you refer to a specific installer app, but not when you refer to installers in general.

> The iWork Installer app asks you to specify where to install the software.
> You can install some apps by dragging them to the Applications folder; other apps require an installer.

### Instant Hotspot
See [Personal Hotspot, Instant Hotspot](#personal-hotspot-instant-hotspot).

### Intel Core
*Intel Core* refers both to Intel's Core microarchitecture and to a family of Intel processors. Intel Core processors used in Mac computers include the Intel Core m3, Intel Core m5, Intel Core i5, and Intel Core i7. You can also use *Intel processors*, *Intel Core processors*, *quad-core Intel Core i5*, and so on.

Generally, precede the names with an article. Note the en dash in phrases such as *Intel Core i5–based Mac*. Don't use terms such as *Intel Core Mac*.

### Intel Xeon
Processors used in Mac computers include the Quad-Core Intel Xeon and 6-Core Intel Xeon. You can shorten the name to *Intel Xeon* or *Xeon*. Use an en dash in phrases such as *Intel Xeon–based Mac*. Don't use terms such as *Intel Xeon Mac*.

### Intel
Use *Intel* to refer to Intel Corporation or to its processors and other technologies. Always use as an adjective except as the company name. Related terms include *Intel processors*, *Intel-based Mac computers*, *Intel-based iMac*, *Mac with Intel processor*, and so on. Don't use terms such as *Intel Mac*.

### interface
OK to use in user materials. Don't use *user interface* in user materials.

### iOS
The operating system for iPhone and older iPad models. Use without an article.

> iOS is the world's most advanced mobile operating system.
> More than a million apps are available for iOS.
> iOS 13 introduces new ways to help you protect your privacy.

### iOS device
Use to refer generically to mobile devices that use iOS. Avoid using *mobile device* when referring to iOS devices (*mobile device* could refer to devices made by other companies).

If you list devices by name, list them in the same order throughout a document—for example, always *iPhone, iPad, and Mac*. (The order you use might vary depending on the product.)

Don't use *iOS device* to refer to devices that use iPadOS.

See also [iOS](#ios); [iPadOS](#ipados); [iPadOS device](#ipados-device).

### iPadOS
The operating system for newer iPad models. Use without an article.

> iPadOS includes features that make your iPad more secure than ever.
> Learn about developing apps for iPadOS.

### iPadOS device
Use to refer generically to mobile devices that use iPadOS. Avoid using *mobile device* when referring to iPadOS devices.

### iTunes Store
Not *iTunes Music Store* or *iTunes App Store*. Music, movies, and other features are available *in*, *on*, or *from* the iTunes Store.

> Find your favorites in the iTunes Store.
> Buy your favorites from the iTunes Store.

After the first reference to the iTunes Store, you can use the full name or simply *the store*.

### iTunes U
An Apple service that schools and other institutions can use to provide free educational content on Apple devices.

### Live Activities
Capitalize the name of the feature. You can use *Live Activity* or just *activity* to refer to individual activities.

> You can view Live Activities in the Dynamic Island on your iPhone.
> A Live Activity can be active for up to 8 hours.
> To switch between activities, swipe left or right.

### Live Photos
The feature name. You can also use *Live Photos* or *Live Photo* to refer to the photos themselves.

> Live Photos is turned on by default.
> With some models of iPhone, you can take Live Photos.
> You can use a Live Photo as the wallpaper for your Lock Screen.

You *play* or *view* a Live Photo. Avoid referring to any part of a Live Photo as *video*. Instead, you can use wording such as *the moments before and after the photo*.

### Live Text
Use only as a feature name. Don't use to refer to the text users interact with.

> Correct: You can use Live Text to copy and share text in a photo.
> Incorrect: You can copy and share Live Text in a photo.

### livestream (n., v.), livestreaming (n.)
Use to refer to media content that's streamed in real time.

> Watch the livestream of this year's Worldwide Developers Conference, or stream it on demand on Apple Podcasts.
> Apple livestreams the Worldwide Developers Conference each year.
> Livestreaming will begin at 10:00 a.m. Pacific daylight time.

If the context makes it clear you're discussing content that's streamed in real time, you can just use *stream*.

> You can stream lectures to your students and answer their questions in real time.

When discussing HTTP Live Streaming, the Apple technology for streaming live content, always capitalize *Live Streaming* and don't hyphenate (even if a noun immediately follows).

See also [stream (n., v.), streaming (n., adj.)](#stream-n-v-streaming-n-adj).

### Location Services
The feature name. Singular.

> Correct: Make sure Location Services is turned on.
> Incorrect: Make sure Location Services are turned on.

### Lock Screen
Note capitalization.

### Login Items
Capitalize when referring to Login Items settings (in macOS 13 and later) or Login Items preferences (in macOS 12 and earlier); use lowercase when referring generically to apps or files that open automatically when the user logs in. In user materials, it's preferable to use descriptive language (for example, *items that open automatically*).

### Look Around
The Maps feature that lets users get a street-level view of a location.

### Low Power Mode
Note capitalization. See also [Power Reserve mode](#power-reserve-mode).

### Mail
Capitalize when referring to the app name: *You can use Mail to send and receive email.* See also [iCloud](#icloud).

### Managed Apple Account
An account that a business or educational institution creates and manages to allow users to access Apple services. This account was formerly known as a *Managed Apple ID*.

> Correct: Some features and settings aren't available to Managed Apple Accounts.
> Incorrect: Some features and settings aren't available to accounts with Managed Apple IDs.

See also [Apple Account](#apple-account).

### Managed Apple ID
Don't use; use *Managed Apple Account*. See also [Managed Apple Account](#managed-apple-account).

### Mac App Store
Apps for the Mac are available *in*, *on*, or *from* the Mac App Store. Precede the name with an article in text. Don't abbreviate as *MAS*.

> Find the item you want on the Mac App Store.
> To download macOS Sonoma from the Mac App Store, open the App Store app on your computer.

After the first reference to the Mac App Store, you can use the full name or simply *the store*. To prevent confusion, avoid using *the store* if you're discussing the App Store for different platforms (for example, the Mac App Store and the App Store for iPhone).

See also [App Store](#app-store).

### Mac Catalyst
A feature of Xcode that developers can use to bring iPad apps to Mac as native Mac apps. Don't use *Catalyst* alone. Developers bring apps *to* Mac, not *to* macOS.

> Bring your iPad app to Mac with Mac Catalyst.

Don't use *Mac Catalyst* as an adjective. For example, don't describe an app as *a Mac Catalyst app*; say *a Mac app created using Mac Catalyst*, or similar. Apps don't *run in* Mac Catalyst; apps are *built with* Mac Catalyst.

> Correct: Mac apps built with Mac Catalyst can use AppKit APIs marked as available.
> Incorrect: Mac apps running in Mac Catalyst can use AppKit APIs marked as available.

### Mac operating systems
In general, use *macOS* to refer to the Mac operating system.

> To reinstall macOS, you must be connected to the internet.
> macOS includes apps you'll use every day.

Don't use *Mac OS* to refer generically to the operating system.

> Correct: To determine which version of the Mac operating system you have…
> Incorrect: To determine which version of the Mac OS you have…

Features are *in* macOS, not *on* macOS.

> Correct: In macOS, you can…
> Incorrect: On macOS, you can…

Mac operating systems have a version name and a version number. If you include both the name and the number, place the name first. Don't place the name in quotation marks, and don't include the word *version* or the letter *v*.

To refer to specific versions of the Mac operating system, follow these guidelines, depending on the version number:

- *10.12 or later:* Use *macOS*. To refer to a specific version of macOS, you can use its name, its version number, or both. Always include *macOS*.

> macOS Sierra
> macOS 10.12
> macOS Sierra 10.12

- *10.8 through 10.11:* Use *OS X*. To refer to a specific version of OS X, you can use its name, its version number, or both. Always include *OS X*.

> OS X El Capitan
> OS X 10.11
> OS X El Capitan 10.11

- *10.0 through 10.7:* Use *Mac OS X*. Include the version number only.

> Correct: Mac OS X 10.7
> Incorrect: Mac OS X Lion 10.7

When referring to a range of OS versions that includes both macOS and earlier versions, use the name (or version number) of the earliest version followed by *or later*.

> Correct: To use Handoff, you must have OS X Yosemite 10.10 or later installed.
> Incorrect: To use Handoff, you must have macOS Yosemite 10.10 or later installed. [Version 10.10 was called OS X, not macOS.]

### macOS
See [Mac operating systems](#mac-operating-systems).

### Mac OS Extended format
A file system used to format a disk for use with macOS. It's OK to define the format parenthetically as *HFS Plus* on first occurrence, but don't use *HFS+*.

### Mac OS Extended (Journaled) format
A file system used to format a disk for use with macOS. It's OK to define the format parenthetically as *Journaled HFS Plus* on first occurrence, but don't use *HFS+ (Journaled)*.

### macOS Server
Use to describe Apple's server software beginning with macOS 10.12. Use only to refer to the software; don't use to refer to a computer with macOS Server installed. Call the computer *the server* or *the server with macOS Server installed*.

> Correct: You can give users access to the server.
> Incorrect: Create a password to make your macOS Server more secure.

When discussing administrative tasks users can do in the Server app, use *the Server app*. When discussing the features or behavior of the server software as a whole, refer to it as *macOS Server*.

> macOS Server sends alerts about important server events.
> Use the Server app to change which alerts you receive.

### Memoji
Personalized Animoji that users can create to represent themselves in some apps. Use *Memoji* for both singular and plural.

> Add features to a Memoji to bring your character to life.
> Create more Memoji to match different moods.

See also [Animoji](#animoji); [emoji](#emoji).

### Memories
Capitalize when referring to the feature in Photos. Use lowercase when referring to the memories that Photos creates and when referring to memory movies.

> Use Memories to rediscover favorite photos in your library.
> Photos scans your library to create a collection of memories.
> Create a custom memory movie right in Photos.

### message
An electronic communication containing information sent by a computer or mobile device. If the context isn't clear, you can add an adjective to indicate the type of message (*audio message, email message, MMS message, SMS message, text message, video message*).

> Send a message to your friend.
> The Messages app automatically chooses the type of group message to send.

Avoid using *message* as a verb. Instead, use *send a message to*.

> Correct: Send a message to your family.
> Incorrect: Message your family.

See also [chat (n., v., adj.)](#chat-n-v-adj); *text message*.

### message list
The list of messages in the viewer window in Mail.

### Mission Control
(Note capitalization.)

### Mouse Keys
Capitalize when you refer to the feature that can be set in Accessibility settings in macOS.

### movie
In general, use to describe commercially produced films or the end product a user creates in a video editing app such as iMovie or Final Cut Pro.

> You can buy or rent movies in the Apple TV app.
> You can publish your completed movie to a website such as YouTube.

See also [iMovie](#imovie); [video](#video).

### My Photo Stream
The iCloud feature. You *turn on* or *turn off* My Photo Stream.

Don't use the term *photo stream* generically to refer to the photos in My Photo Stream; always use the full feature name.

> Correct: You can see the photos in My Photo Stream on all your devices.
> Incorrect: You can see the photos in your photo stream on all your devices.

Use *My Photo Stream album* to refer to the album where photos are stored on a device or in an app.

> When My Photo Stream is turned on, you can see your most recent photos in the My Photo Stream album.

See also [iCloud Photos](#icloud-photos).

### News
See [Apple News](#apple-news).

### Notes app
See [notes, Notes](#notes-notes).

### notes, Notes
Use lowercase to refer to notes the user creates. Capitalize when referring to the app name.

> You can use the Notes app to share notes with friends and family.

### Notification Center
Don't precede with *the*.

> To open Notification Center, click the date and time in the menu bar.

### Note
Use the Note tag for information that's relevant to a topic but that may not apply to all readers. You can also use a note for a bit of information that's tangential to a topic.

Use notes and other notices sparingly. They lose their effectiveness if they appear too often. Don't use a Note tag immediately before or after a Warning notice, an Important notice, or another note, or immediately after a text heading.

See also [Important](#important); [Warning](#warning).

### Optic ID
An authentication technology using iris recognition. Don't precede with *the*. It's OK to use *Optic ID* alone or in terms such as *Optic ID technology*.

> You can use Optic ID to authorize purchases and unlock Apple Vision Pro.

### parental controls
Don't use *family controls*.

### People View
The view on Apple Vision Pro where you can make a FaceTime call, send messages, and view contacts. See also [Apps View](#apps-view); [Environments View](#environments-view); [Home View](#home-view).

### Personal Hotspot, Instant Hotspot
*Personal Hotspot* refers to sharing the internet connection of an iOS or iPadOS device with other devices or computers. Capitalize when referring to either the feature or a hotspot created by a user.

> When Personal Hotspot is on, other devices can connect to your Personal Hotspot using Wi-Fi.

*Instant Hotspot* refers to sharing a device's Personal Hotspot with other devices where the user is signed in to the same Apple Account. In general, use *Instant Hotspot* only as a feature name—don't use to refer to an individual hotspot.

> Correct: With Instant Hotspot, you can quickly connect to your Personal Hotspot without entering a password.
> Incorrect: You can quickly connect to your Instant Hotspot without entering a password.

### preferences
When discussing System Preferences (in macOS 12 and earlier), you can shorten the name of each set of system preferences to *[preference name] preferences*, as in *Accessibility preferences* (note lowercase *preferences*).

> Use Sound preferences to change volume settings.

However, always capitalize the name *System Preferences*.

> Use the Trackpad pane of System Preferences to set the tracking speed.

When discussing app preferences in macOS 12 and earlier, use lowercase *preferences*.

> Use the Privacy pane of Safari preferences to block website cookies.

See also [settings, Settings](#settings-settings); [System Preferences](#system-preferences).

### Private Browsing
Capitalize the feature name.

> When you use Private Browsing in Safari, the details of your browsing aren't saved.

Use *private window* (not *Private window* or *Private Browsing window*) or *private tab* for the window or tab that's open while you're using Private Browsing.

### Private Cloud Compute
The cloud intelligence system designed to handle Apple Intelligence interactions that aren't handled on device. It's OK to abbreviate as *PCC* after first reference.

### processor
Synonymous with *microprocessor* for Apple products. In user materials, the simpler *processor* is preferred. See also [CPU](abbreviations-and-acronyms.md#cpu).

### product
Use to refer generically to items customers can get from Apple, including hardware, software, and services.

> To get support for your Apple product, go to support.apple.com.
> Apple products are intuitive and easy to use.

Don't use *product* in materials that discuss using and working with a specific device, such as a Mac or Apple Watch. Instead, use the name of the device or an acceptable short form—for example, *computer* instead of *Mac*, or *watch* instead of *Apple Watch*.

> Acceptable: Slide the computer out of the rack.
> Preferable: Slide the Mac Pro out of the rack.
> Incorrect: Slide the product out of the rack.

See also [device](#device).

### product names
Follow the capitalization style of the official product name. Don't shorten or abbreviate product names.

- *Names as verbs:* Don't use product names or trademarks as verbs: *make a FaceTime call to a friend*, not *FaceTime a friend*; *identify a song using Shazam*, not *Shazam a song*.
- *Plurals and possessives:* Rewrite to avoid using plural or possessive forms of product names that are trademarks: *Mac computers*, not *Macs*; *check the storage on your iPad*, not *check your iPad's storage*.
- *Names with lowercase letters:* If a product name starts with a lowercase letter, use that capitalization style even at the beginning of sentences and in title-style headings: *iPhone Safety Features*, not *IPhone Safety Features*; *Set Up Your Mac mini*, not *Set Up Your Mac Mini*. In all-caps text, capitalize all the letters: *THE NEW IPAD*, not *THE NEW iPAD*.
- *Articles:* In general references, don't use *the* with the names of these hardware products:

> AirPods, AirPods Max, AirPods Pro, AirTag, Apple Pencil, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro, Apple Watch, Apple Watch Ultra, HomePod, HomePod mini, iMac, iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini, iPad Pro, iPhone, Mac, MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, Mac Pro, Mac Studio, Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, Pro Display XDR, Pro Stand, Studio Display

It's OK to use another article or a possessive adjective: *on an iPhone with Face ID*, *to set up your MacBook Pro*. If you need to refer to a specific product, it's OK to use *the*: *Select the iPad you want to use as a second display*.

Guidelines for including *the* with product names apply to the name used alone, and not necessarily to the name preceded by an adjective.

> try out iPad Pro, try out the new iPad Pro

See also [plurals](punctuation.md#plurals); [trademarks (usage)](punctuation.md#trademarks-usage); and entries for specific product names.

### push notification
In developer materials, use to refer to a notification that is generated from a server and delivered to a device. Don't use in user materials; use just *notification*. Use lowercase for *push notification* except in proper names such as *Apple Push Notification service* and *Safari Push Notifications*.

> Developer materials: Your server generates push notifications, and Apple Push Notification service (APNs) handles the delivery of those notifications to devices.
> User materials: You can allow websites to send you notifications.

### Quick Look
Capitalize when you refer to the feature in macOS. Don't use *quick look* as a verb.

### QuickTime Player
Don't precede with *the*.

> Open QuickTime Player.

### Raise to Speak
Note capitalization. An Apple Watch feature.

> When Raise to Speak is on, you can raise your wrist and speak your request.

### Raise to Wake
Note capitalization. An iPhone feature.

> When Raise to Wake is on, you can wake your iPhone by raising it.

### Reader
Always capitalize when referring to the Safari feature. Don't precede with *the*.

> You can use Reader to view articles without distracting ads.

### Reading List
Always capitalize when referring to the Safari feature. Refer to the user's Reading List as *your Reading List*.

> You can add webpages to your Reading List.

### Read Me
A document that accompanies a product and contains information the user needs to read before installing or using the product.

In user materials, don't call such documents *the Read Me* or *Read Me file*. Instead, use the document's name enclosed in quotation marks. Call a file "Read Me" only if that's the actual filename.

### Reduce Interruptions
An Apple Intelligence feature. You can use *the Reduce Interruptions Focus* or simply *Reduce Interruptions*.

> You can customize the Reduce Interruptions Focus the same way you would any other Focus.
> Reduce Interruptions understands the content of your notifications and shows you the most important ones.

See also [Focus](#focus).

### reminder, Reminders
Use lowercase to refer to a reminder the user creates. Use uppercase to refer to the app.

> Type a name for the reminder.
> Use the Reminders app to stay organized.

Refer to a list of reminders as a *reminder list*.

> You can share a reminder list with other iCloud users.

### Reset
The button or switch, which may be labeled with the word *Reset* or with a triangle symbol.

### Ring/Silent switch
Note capitalization.

### Safari
(Capitalization as shown.)

### Setup Assistant
Capitalize when you refer to an app that helps users configure the system or software; use lowercase for generic references. Don't use *the* before *Setup Assistant*.

> You must have an AirPort Extreme Card installed in your computer to use AirPort Setup Assistant.
> Apple Remote Desktop provides an easy-to-use setup assistant to guide you through the process.

See also [Assistant](#assistant).

### Shared Albums
An iCloud feature that allows users to share photo albums with other iCloud users. Note capitalization; don't use *iCloud Photo Sharing*, *Shared iCloud Albums*, or similar. You *turn on* or *turn off* Shared Albums. Use *shared album* to refer generically to an album that's shared using Shared Albums. See also [iCloud](#icloud).

### shared disk
In user materials, use *shared disk* when you discuss connecting to another computer over the network. When you discuss setting up a folder to share on your own computer, use *shared folder*. Use *file server* only when explaining the concept of file servers.

### shared folder
In user materials, use *shared folder* when you discuss setting up a folder to share on the user's computer. Use *shared disk* when you discuss connecting to another computer over the network. See also [shared disk](#shared-disk).

### SharePlay
Don't use as a verb.

> Correct: Watch together using SharePlay on Apple TV.
> Incorrect: SharePlay a movie on Apple TV.

Use *join* instead of *access*.

> Correct: To join SharePlay on Apple TV, tap the Play button.
> Incorrect: To access SharePlay on Apple TV, tap the Play button.

In user materials, avoid using *session*. (It's OK to use *session* in developer materials.)

> Avoid: Tap the Play button to start the SharePlay session.
> Preferable: Tap the Play button to start the video.

You can use *sync* or *synced* to describe the experience of watching videos or listening to music together.

> Everyone's playback is synced—so you and your friends…

### share, send
In user materials, use *share* to refer to giving ongoing access to a resource or making it available to someone else—for example, sharing a Pages document, an App Store purchase, your location, or your internet connection. Use *send* to refer to a one-time action that transmits a static copy of something—for example, sending a file using Mail or Messages.

> Correct: Share your document with colleagues so you can make edits together in real time.
> Incorrect: Send your document to colleagues so you can make edits together in real time.
> Correct: Use AirDrop to send a document to someone nearby.
> Incorrect: Use AirDrop to share a document with someone nearby.

It's OK to use *share* to refer broadly to distributing items to others.

> You can share your photos with friends using Mail, Messages, AirDrop, and more.

### Sidecar
The feature for using iPad as a second display with a Mac. Don't precede with *the*.

> Sidecar lets you extend your workspace by using your iPad as a second display.

### Sign in with Apple
Note capitalization. The feature that lets users sign in to apps and websites securely using their Apple Account. The word *in* is lowercase in both the name of the service and the label on the Sign in with Apple button.

> Sign in with Apple is the fast, easy way to sign in to apps and websites.
> When you visit a participating website, tap Sign in with Apple.

### Siri
The voice-activated assistant.

Don't refer to Siri as *she* or *her*; always say *Siri*. If that means repeating *Siri* too often, you can occasionally refer to Siri as *it*. Users can *summon Siri, ask Siri,* or *make requests*; users don't *open Siri*.

Avoid using *Hey Siri* as a feature name; in most cases just tell users how to use it.

> Avoid: You can use Hey Siri to schedule a meeting.
> Preferable: To use Siri without pressing the Home button, say "Hey Siri," and then make your request.

### Siri Shortcuts
When you refer to the feature, capitalize *Shortcuts* and use an *s* at the end. *Siri Shortcuts* takes a plural verb.

> Correct: Siri Shortcuts provide a quick way to get things done.
> Incorrect: You can use Siri shortcuts to do everyday tasks.

When referring generally to individual shortcuts, use lowercase *shortcut* and omit *Siri*.

> Correct: Create a shortcut that plays your favorite podcast on the drive home.
> Incorrect: Create a Siri Shortcut that plays your favorite podcast on the drive home.

### Siri Suggestions
When you refer to the feature, capitalize *Suggestions* and use an *s* at the end. *Siri Suggestions* takes a plural verb.

> Correct: Siri Suggestions give you help right when you need it.
> Incorrect: You can view Siri suggestions on your watch face.

When referring generally to individual suggestions, use lowercase *suggestion* and omit *Siri*.

> Correct: To use a suggestion, tap it on the Lock Screen.
> Incorrect: To use a Siri Suggestion, tap it on the Lock Screen.

### sleep
An energy-saving feature of some computers. The computer *goes to sleep* (or the user can *put it to sleep*); the computer is then *in sleep* or *in sleep mode*. Don't use *the computer is sleeping* or *the computer is asleep*.

### Smart
When you refer to items that are updated automatically based on search criteria the user selects, capitalize both the word *Smart* and the noun it modifies: *Smart Album*, *Smart Collection*, *Smart Folder*, *Smart Group*, *Smart Mailbox*, *Smart Playlist*.

### Smart Reply
An Apple Intelligence feature. You can use *Smart Reply* to refer to the feature or to an individual reply someone sends.

> In the Mail app, Smart Reply provides suggestions for a quick response to an email.
> Tap a Smart Reply to quickly draft an email response.

### Smart Stack
Precede the singular form with *a*.

> You can swipe through a Smart Stack to see the widgets in it.
> To use Smart Stacks, you need to be using iPadOS 14 or later.

### Spaces
Capitalize only when explicitly referring to the feature.

> You can use Spaces to organize your windows into groups and reduce clutter.
> Use Mission Control to add and delete desktop spaces.

### Spatial Audio
Capitalize the name of the Apple feature.

> Spatial Audio is available only on Mac with Apple silicon.
> Find music that's made for Spatial Audio.

### spatial photo, spatial video
Use to refer to 3D images captured on Apple Vision Pro and some iPhone models. You can also use *spatial capture*.

### Split View
Note capitalization. The feature for viewing two apps or windows side by side on a Mac or iPad. In most cases, say that users do things *in* Split View; they don't *use* Split View.

> Avoid: You can use Split View to view two apps side by side.
> Preferable: You can view two apps side by side in Split View.

### Spotlight
The search feature. Related terms include the following:

- *Spotlight icon:* In the menu bar in macOS
- *search field:* The area where users enter search terms
- *Spotlight window:* Shows the *results list* (on the left) and a *preview* (on the right)

### Stacks
The macOS feature that automatically groups files on the desktop and gives you quick access to folders in the Dock. Capitalize only when referring to the feature.

> With the Stacks feature, you can easily organize the files on your desktop.
> You can change how stacks are grouped.
> Files you download appear in the Downloads stack.

### Stage Manager
A feature for resizing windows, seeing overlapping windows in a single view, and switching between apps. You *turn on* or *turn off* Stage Manager; you don't *enter* or *leave* it. You work with apps and windows *in* Stage Manager.

> You can turn on Stage Manager in the Settings app.
> Group apps together in Stage Manager.

### standard user
Use in macOS to describe a user whose account is more restrictive than that of an administrator user. Don't use *normal user*. See also [administrator (adj.)](#administrator-adj).

### Startup Disk
Capitalize when referring to Startup Disk settings (in macOS 13 and later) or Startup Disk preferences (in macOS 12 and earlier); use lowercase when referring generically to a user's startup disk.

### startup disk
The preferred term in user materials.

### startup display, startup screen
Not *splash screen*. *Startup display*, *startup screen*, and *opening display* are all OK.

### startup sound
Use to refer to the chord heard during a successful startup sequence. Don't use *boot chime*.

### Sticky Keys
Capitalize when you refer to the feature that can be set in Accessibility settings in macOS.

### storage
Use *storage space* (or just *space*) to refer to the space used to store data and information on a computer or device.

> You can make more storage space available by deleting files you no longer use.
> If you're running out of space, you can store files in iCloud Drive.

You can also use *storage* by itself, especially when discussing storage management, as in the phrases *Optimized Storage*, *buy more storage*, and so on.

> Optimized Storage suggests ways you can automatically free up space on your Mac.
> To upgrade your iCloud storage, click Buy More Storage.

See also [memory](#memory).

### storage device
Use instead of *disk* to refer generally to computer storage devices that might include hard disks, solid-state drives, and flash storage.

> Correct: You can import photos from an external storage device.
> Incorrect: You can import photos from an external disk.

When possible, use a more specific term.

### stream (n., v.), streaming (n., adj.)
Use to refer to watching or listening to media content as it's delivered to a device (instead of downloading it completely first).

> This stream is best experienced on iPhone with iOS 15 or later, or iPad with iPadOS 15 or later.
> Use AirPlay to stream content from iPhone to Apple TV.
> Activities like streaming and downloading large files can slow down a network.
> Apple TV+ is a streaming service featuring award-winning series, documentaries, kids' entertainment, and more.

Content can be streamed on demand (at any time) or in real time. You can use *livestream* to refer to content that's streamed in real time.

See also [livestream (n., v.), livestreaming (n.)](#livestream-n-v-livestreaming-n).

### streaming device, streaming player
Use either term to refer generically to digital media players (such as Roku) that stream content over a network to a TV.

> Open the Apple TV app on your smart TV or streaming device.

See also [smart TV](#smart-tv).

### System Administrator
Avoid, except when you're referring to the macOS user account identified as *System Administrator* (long name) and *root* (short name).

Anyone with access to the System Administrator account can obtain read-and-write access to all settings and files on the system, including hidden system files that a regular administrator user can't modify. Each computer can have multiple administrator accounts but only one System Administrator account.

Lowercase *system administrator* is an acceptable and frequently used variant of the noun *administrator*.

See also [administrator (n.)](#administrator-n); [administrator (adj.)](#administrator-adj).

### System Preferences
The app for changing systemwide options in macOS 12 and earlier. See also [preferences](#preferences); [System Settings](#system-settings).

### System Settings
The app for changing systemwide options in macOS 13 and later. See also [preferences](#preferences); [settings, Settings](#settings-settings).

### system software
Not *systems software*. See also [app, application, program](#app-application-program); [version number](#version-number).

### settings, Settings
Use lowercase when referring generically to settings. Capitalize when referring to the app on some Apple devices.

> You can change settings for your iPhone using the Settings app.

When discussing System Settings (in macOS 13 and later), you can shorten the name of each set of system settings to *[settings name] settings*, as in *Accessibility settings* (note lowercase *settings*).

> Use Sound settings to select the device you want to use for sound output.

However, always capitalize the name *System Settings*.

> Use System Settings to change settings for your Mac.

When discussing app settings in macOS 13 and later, use lowercase *settings*.

> Use the Privacy pane of Safari settings to block website cookies.

See also [preferences](#preferences); [System Preferences](#system-preferences).

### smart TV
Note capitalization. Use to refer generically to TVs with integrated network connectivity and streaming capabilities.

> See a list of smart TVs that support the Apple TV app.

See also [streaming device, streaming player](#streaming-device-streaming-player).

### Spotify
(Generic—no specific entry in source.)

### Spotlight
See entry [Spotlight](#spotlight) above.

### Tapback
A feature in the Messages app. Don't use as a verb.

### Taptic Engine
Technology that provides haptic feedback in iOS devices and Apple Watch. Precede with *the*. Don't use the word *taptic* by itself; use only in the term *Taptic Engine*.

### Tap to Wake
Note capitalization. An iPhone feature.

> To wake your iPhone by tapping the screen, turn on Tap to Wake.

### Touch ID
A fingerprint recognition technology used for authentication. It's OK to use *Touch ID* alone or in terms such as *Touch ID sensor*.

> Click the Apple Pay button, and then use Touch ID to complete the payment.
> Make sure the Touch ID sensor and your finger are clean and dry.

To give instructions for using Touch ID, you can also refer to the button that Touch ID is integrated into—for example, the Home button on iPhone.

> Press the Home button with the finger you used to set up Touch ID.

### Transparency mode
An AirPods feature.

### Trash
Use an article (*drag the file to the Trash*).

### two-factor authentication
A security feature that requires users to enter a code from a trusted device when signing in to their Apple Account on a new device.

### two-step verification
A security feature that requires users to enter a code from a trusted device when signing in to an app or a service.

### tvOS
Apple's operating system for Apple TV. Use without an article.

> Thousands of apps are available for tvOS.

See also [iOS](#ios); [Mac operating systems](#mac-operating-systems); [watchOS](#watchos).

### update
Use to refer to a minor software release that updates a version of software, but doesn't upgrade it to the next *major* version.

> macOS Mojave 10.14.1 is an update to macOS Mojave 10.14.

Don't use *maintenance release* or *dot release*. See also [upgrade](#upgrade); [version number](#version-number).

### upgrade
Use to refer to a *major* version of a software product. For example, *macOS Mojave is an upgrade to macOS High Sierra*. See also [update](#update); [version number](#version-number).

### upload
Reword if possible, but OK to use when you refer to copying files to a server.

Avoid using *upload* to refer to what iCloud does; instead, content *is stored*, *is kept up to date*, *appears automatically*, and so on.

> Avoid: Every new photo you take is uploaded to My Photo Stream.
> Preferable: Every new photo you take appears in My Photo Stream.

See also [iCloud](#icloud).

### version number
Include a version number with software names as needed—for example, when describing a new version of a product or comparing two versions of a product. Otherwise the version number can usually be omitted.

Don't include the word *version* or the letter *v* when you refer to versions of software—for example, *Keynote 8.3*, not *Keynote version 8.3*.

> Compressor 4 includes support for 360° video.
> Final Cut Pro is the software of choice for professional video editors.

When referring to a major release number (such as macOS 10.14 or iOS 12), omit any trailing .0 unless it's needed for clarity.

> Pages 6.0 must be installed before you update to Pages 6.1.

- *Earlier or later:* Use *earlier* or *later*, rather than *lower* or *higher* or *newer* or *older*.

> To use Handoff, you need iOS 8 or later.

- *The letter x:* Except in developer materials, don't use *x* to mean "any number," as in *10.x*; use a specific number or range of numbers.

See also [latest](word-choice-and-confusables.md#latest); [Mac operating systems](#mac-operating-systems).

### video
Note the treatment of these terms beginning with *video*:

> video camera, video capture card, video conference, video editing, video game, video podcast, video tutorial
> But: videotape

Don't use a hyphen in compound adjectives that include *video*: *video editing app*.

In help for video editing apps, it's generally preferable to use *video* to refer to the user's source footage and *movie* to refer to the edited program.

> Final Cut Pro can automatically sync video and audio clips in your project.
> You can share your finished movie on the web.

Use *media* rather than *video* when referring to more than one type of media.

See also [media, medium](#media-medium); [movie](#movie).

### Visual Look Up
Note spelling and capitalization.

### visionOS
The operating system for Apple Vision Pro. Don't precede with *the*.

### voiceover, VoiceOver
Use lowercase when you refer to recorded narration; capitalize when you refer to the Apple screen reader.

> You can record your own voiceover to add to your movie.
> VoiceOver lets you navigate your device just by listening.

### Voice Memos
Capitalize when referring to the app name. Use lowercase when referring to the recordings you make with the app. You can also use *recordings*.

> To record a voice memo, open the Voice Memos app and tap Record.

### Walkie-Talkie
A watchOS app. Don't use as a verb; say *use Walkie-Talkie*, *have a Walkie-Talkie conversation*, or similar.

### Warning
Use a Warning notice when the reader needs to know that an action may cause bodily injury, damage to hardware or software, or loss of data.

Use warnings and other notices sparingly. They lose their effectiveness if they appear too often. Don't use a Warning notice immediately before or after a note, an Important notice, or another Warning notice, or immediately after a text heading.

See also [Important](#important); [Note](#note).

### watch face
Use to refer to what you see when Apple Watch is displaying a watch. Don't shorten to *face*.

> Correct: With the watch face showing, press the display.
> Incorrect: You can add stock info to the face.

In most cases, don't say *touch and hold the watch face*; you *touch and hold the display* while viewing the watch face.

### watchOS
The operating system for Apple Watch.

### web
Short for *World Wide Web*. You *go to*, *visit*, or *view* pages *on the web*. Note the treatment of terms beginning with *web*:

> webcam, webcast, webinar, webmail, webpage, website
> web app, web browser, web developer, web server

Don't use *web* and *internet* interchangeably; the web is just one part of the global internet.

See also *internet addresses*; [World Wide Web](#world-wide-web).

### webpage
One word. A self-contained document that can be viewed on a website. A single website can contain many webpages. You *connect to* (or *go to*) a page; you're then *at* that page. Text, graphics, and links, however, are *on* the page.

Don't use *website* and *webpage* interchangeably.

See also [homepage](#homepage); *internet addresses*; [website](#website).

### website
Refers to a collection of webpages stored in a particular location.

A website may be organized into several parts, sections, or areas, each of which may contain more than one page. Use *part*, *section*, or *area* to refer to such an entity. Use *page* to refer to a single webpage. Use *website* to refer to the entire collection.

You can *browse*, *visit*, or *go to* a website, but don't use such phrases as *point your browser at the website* and *surf the website*.

See also [homepage](#homepage); [webpage](#webpage).

### homepage
Use to refer to a webpage that serves as the directory or entry point to a website. Don't use *landing page* or *portal*. Don't use *homepage* to refer to an entire website.

> Correct: The Apple homepage has links to product information, including purchasing options.
> Correct: Visit the Apple website for more information about Apple products.
> Incorrect: You can purchase products on the Apple homepage.

### widget
Capitalize the names of widgets.

> To customize the Weather widget…
> To add a Stocks widget to Notification Center…

### Wi-Fi
Not *wifi*, *wi-fi*, or *WiFi*.

### Windows
See [Microsoft Windows](#microsoft-windows).

### Microsoft Windows
OK to use *Windows*. Computers that use Microsoft Windows can be called *Windows-based computers*, *Windows computers*, *Windows-based PCs*, or *Windows PCs*. See also [PC](#pc).

### PC
Avoid *PC* when you refer to Apple personal computers. Use *personal computer* or *computer*. It's OK to use *PC*, *Windows-based PC*, or *Windows PC* to refer to non-Apple personal computers.

> QuickTime is available for both Mac computers and Windows-based PCs.
> You can share Mac files with a PC on a wireless network.

See also [Microsoft Windows](#microsoft-windows).

### World Wide Web
In most cases, just use *the web*. When you do use *World Wide Web*, don't abbreviate as *WWW*. See also [internet, Internet](word-choice-and-confusables.md#internet-internet); [web](#web).

### Writing Tools
An Apple Intelligence feature. Use a plural verb with *Writing Tools*.

> Writing Tools are available nearly everywhere you write.

### zoom, Zoom
Use lowercase when referring to the action of zooming. It's OK to use *zoom*, *zoom in*, *zoom in on*, *zoom in to*, *zoom out*, and *zoom out of*.

> You can pinch to zoom in on apps, photos, and other items on iPad.

Capitalize when referring to the feature.

> Use Zoom to magnify what's on the Apple Watch display.

### memory
A general term for the part of a computer that holds data and instructions for use by processors. *Memory* can refer to random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), virtual memory, swap files, and portable storage devices (such as flash drives and memory sticks), among others.

> Use Activity Monitor to see the amount of system memory being used on your Mac.
> macOS automatically allocates memory and adjusts its contents as needed.

Don't use *memory* to refer to storage capacity; use a term such as *storage space* instead. See also [storage](#storage).

### media, medium
When you describe a method of storing or delivering information, use the singular *medium* or the plural *media*.

> The characteristics of the video storage medium determine playback and recording capabilities. [singular]
> The guide is presented in both print and electronic media. [plural]

When you discuss video, audio, and still-image content, however, you can use *media* as a singular term to describe a collection of content (for example, a set of video clips).

> Your imported media appears as clips in one or more events.

### mobile device
OK to use to refer to handheld computing devices such as iPhone and iPad, or to phones and tablets in general.

> Numbers is the most innovative spreadsheet app available for a mobile device.

When possible, however, use the name of a specific device, or describe the category of device: *iOS device*, *iPadOS device*.

See also [device](#device).

### mobile phone
Use instead of *cell phone* or *cellular phone*. Don't use simply as a synonym for *iPhone*.

### mode
Don't overuse *mode*; it can often be omitted with no change in meaning. In particular, avoid referring to a feature as a mode if *mode* isn't part of the feature name.

> Correct: When you're using the paintbrush…
> Incorrect: When you're in paintbrush mode…
> Correct: In Stage Manager, you can group apps together for specific tasks.
> Incorrect: In Stage Manager mode, you can group apps together for specific tasks.

If *mode* is part of a feature name, capitalize or use lowercase depending on the feature.

> Action mode, Airplane Mode, burst mode, Cinematic mode, Dark Mode, Express Mode, Lockdown Mode, Lost Mode, Low Data mode, Low Power Mode, Night mode (iPhone), Night Mode (Apple Watch), Nightstand mode, Portrait mode, recovery mode, Reference Mode, Ring mode, safe mode, Silent mode, sleep mode, Smart Data mode, standby mode, target disk mode, Theater Mode, Transparency mode, Voice Isolation mode, Wide Spectrum mode

### Apple Composite AV Cable
(Mentioned in the [audio/video](#audiovideo) entry; included here for reference.)

### audio/video
Refers to equipment and apps that deal with sound and sight. The term can be abbreviated as *AV* or *A/V*: *A/V receiver*, *A/V equipment*, *Apple Composite AV Cable*.

### Power Reserve mode
Use only to refer to the mode in watchOS 8 or earlier; otherwise, use *Low Power Mode*. See also [Low Power Mode](#low-power-mode).

### chat (n., v., adj.)
Use as a noun only after identifying the context (typically *audio chat* or *video chat*).

> When you finish chatting with your group, you can leave the group chat.
> Customers can chat with AppleCare for technical support.
> Messages is the built-in chat client for Mac computers.

### chatbot
Short for *chatterbot*. An app that uses artificial intelligence to simulate conversation, through voice or text, with human users.

> Many businesses offer chatbots as automated support.

See also [bot](#bot).

### bot
Short for *robot*. An app that performs automated tasks, especially tasks that are repetitive.

> You can set up a bot to perform integrations of your app each time a change is committed to your source repository.

See also [chatbot](#chatbot).
