Mac OS X: Can I write application files within the app bundle?

Question

• The application will be located in /Applications.
• The application will be downloaded via a web browser and not via the App Store.
• The language being used is Tcl/Tk.

A. Will this work on all versions of OS X 10.5 or higher?

B. Is there a better place to store application files?

Answer 1

~/Library/Application Support is a way better place to store your files:

Use this directory to store all app data files except those associated with the user’s documents. For example, you might use this directory to store app-created data files, configuration files, templates, or other fixed or modifiable resources that are managed by the app. An app might use this directory to store a modifiable copy of resources contained initially in the app’s bundle. A game might use this directory to store new levels purchased by the user and downloaded from a server.

Answer 2

A. No, generally you should not alter the application bundle once installed. You will very likely encounter permissions or code signing issues if you do.

B. ~/Library/Application Support/MyApp/