What is a Plist File Extension?

A plist file extension is a type of file that stores serialized objects, primarily used to store preference files and configuration settings for Mac OS X applications. Property list files use the `.plist` filename extension and can be opened using software programs listed below.

Prior to Mac OS X 10.4, property list files were stored as XML files, which could be viewed and edited in XML text mode or in property list mode using the default plist Editor on a Mac. However, starting with Mac OS X 10.2, property list files can also be stored as binary files.

To view a plist file, right-click an application file, select 'Show Package Contents,' and open the Contents folder. The primary property list for Mac OS X applications is located in the `/Contents/` directory of an application bundle. Property list files included with applications can be created and edited by developers using Apple's Property List Editor, which is included with Apple Developer Tools.

However, users should generally not edit these files as they are modified by their respective programs as needed. Instead, settings files can be saved in a text or binary format and can be opened and edited using third-party plist editing programs or text editors. PLIST files can also be converted between XML and binary formats using the `plutil` command line tool.

In addition to its use in Mac OS X applications, property list files are also used in iPhone OS devices. In this context, they store preference files and configuration settings for iOS applications. Property list files can be viewed and edited using software programs that support the `.plist` file format.

Overall, plist files are an essential part of the Mac OS X and iOS ecosystems, allowing developers to store and manage application settings and preferences in a standardized format.

What is a plist file extension