Understanding /etc/passwd file in Linux

Who would like to discuss this with me?

https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

--
David

2025-02-14 12:59:52 UTC

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Creon

2025-02-14 13:17:41 UTC

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

You chose wisely.

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.14.0-rc2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
"How do I set my laser printer on stun?"

2025-02-14 13:31:47 UTC

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

You chose wisely.

i know

Mike Easter

2025-02-14 13:02:13 UTC

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

I can't say much about the blogger's POV, because -1- I've never
'touched' the text file directly but -2- the concept of the users and
their groups and privileges is very important/essential in the linux
world and sometimes leads to 'confusion' and trouble for the unaware.

For me, I just deal w/ users and their 'elevation' from ordinary user to
admin in a similar manner as Win; I don't know how Mac handles things, I
would imagine mostly 'unixy' like linux; all that stuff derives from the
original Unix philosophy.

I just looked at two very different graphical user/group managers, one
in LM Cinnamon and one in MX XFCE. The LM cinn one is extremely
simplistic and is menu-named 'Users and Groups' but its real name from a
'package' perspective is something like 'cinnamon-settings-users' or
similar; while the very powerful and 'comprehensive' one in MX is named
'MX User Manager'. I really like the looks of that one.

I think that all you should 'take away' from the article you read is its
heritage and philosophy, because whatever you might do w/ linux as a
beginner would be done via a 'special' interface at the beginning or
installation or booting of a live system, and whatever you might 'add'
later would be done via a graphical user manager, not that file.

These days, the most conventional arrangement is that you are an
individual 'ordinary' user w/ a user/pass and when you need to elevate
your privileges you do it as a 'super user' su or sudo, not usually
root, depending on the distro. Puppy and its derivatives like Easy OS
and MX like to stick w/ root.

--
Mike Easter

Mike Easter

2025-02-14 13:18:18 UTC

Post by Mike Easter

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

I can't say much about the blogger's POV,

I like this article better:

https://www.cyberciti.biz/faq/understanding-etcpasswd-file-format/

Post by Mike Easter
Understanding /etc/passwd File Format

*LOTS* more useful info in that one.

--
Mike Easter

Creon

2025-02-14 13:26:25 UTC

Post by Mike Easter

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

I was surprised to find out that Modern Macs only use /etc/passwd in
single-user mode:

$ head /etc/passwd
##
# User Database
#
# Note that this file is consulted directly only when the system is running
# in single-user mode. At other times this information is provided by
# Open Directory.
#
# See the opendirectoryd(8) man page for additional information about
# Open Directory.
##

Post by Mike Easter
I just looked at two very different graphical user/group managers, one
in LM Cinnamon and one in MX XFCE. The LM cinn one is extremely
simplistic and is menu-named 'Users and Groups' but its real name from a
'package' perspective is something like 'cinnamon-settings-users' or
similar; while the very powerful and 'comprehensive' one in MX is named
'MX User Manager'. I really like the looks of that one.
I think that all you should 'take away' from the article you read is its
heritage and philosophy, because whatever you might do w/ linux as a
beginner would be done via a 'special' interface at the beginning or
installation or booting of a live system, and whatever you might 'add'
later would be done via a graphical user manager, not that file.

Very wise advice!

Post by Mike Easter
These days, the most conventional arrangement is that you are an
individual 'ordinary' user w/ a user/pass and when you need to elevate
your privileges you do it as a 'super user' su or sudo, not usually
root, depending on the distro. Puppy and its derivatives like Easy OS
and MX like to stick w/ root.

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.14.0-rc2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
""Apple" (c) Copyright 1767, Sir Isaac Newton."

2025-02-14 13:32:59 UTC

Post by Mike Easter

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

I was surprised to find out that Modern Macs only use /etc/passwd in
$ head /etc/passwd
##
# User Database
#
# Note that this file is consulted directly only when the system is running
# in single-user mode. At other times this information is provided by
# Open Directory.
#
# See the opendirectoryd(8) man page for additional information about
# Open Directory.
##

Very wise advice!

now you can see why i said no

Creon

2025-02-14 13:16:16 UTC

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.

Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.14.0-rc2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
"Murphy's law needs to be repealed."

pothead

2025-02-14 13:50:13 UTC

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

--
pothead

Why did Joe Biden pardon his family?
Read below to learn the reason.
The Biden Crime Family Timeline here:
https://oversight.house.gov/the-bidens-influence-peddling-timeline/

Creon

2025-02-14 14:44:12 UTC

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Well, Linux Mint has Timeshift for backups, and one of the
install tasks is to set it up.

Public Safety Announcment: By default, it doesn't back up /home -- you
have to add that.

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.14.0-rc2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
"(A)bort, (R)etry, (P)anic?"

Kelly Phillips

2025-02-14 19:51:33 UTC

On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

pothead

2025-02-14 20:55:06 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

--
pothead

Why did Joe Biden pardon his family?
Read below to learn the reason.
The Biden Crime Family Timeline here:
https://oversight.house.gov/the-bidens-influence-peddling-timeline/

Creon

2025-02-16 05:25:47 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

(It's part of GNUStep.)

But it's unlikely he would use that as an editor on /etc/passwd. Still
doesn't matter: don't edit that file directly unless you know exactly
what you're doing -- and if you do, set your EDITOR and VISUAL environment
variables, and then use vipw(8).

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.14.0-rc2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
"E Pluribus UNIX."

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-16 05:56:57 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
compare:

1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.

2. Features & Capabilities
• macOS TextEdit:
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• Linux Mint TextEdit:
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.

3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.

4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.

Conclusion

Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Post by Creon
(It's part of GNUStep.)
But it's unlikely he would use that as an editor on /etc/passwd. Still
doesn't matter: don't edit that file directly unless you know exactly
what you're doing -- and if you do, set your EDITOR and VISUAL environment
variables, and then use vipw(8).

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

David

2025-02-16 10:33:32 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

--
David

Creon

2025-02-16 11:48:49 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.

$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep

Note the default file format:

https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC

David,

This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.14.0-rc2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
"STICK: A boomerang that doesn't work."

Creon

2025-02-16 12:05:57 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

To illustrate the point:

_[/nfs/ds/src/TextEdit.app/textedit.app-5.0]_(***@lm)🐧_
$ head -40 Document.m
/*
Document.m
Copyright (c) 1995-2009 by Apple Computer, Inc., all rights reserved.
Author: Ali Ozer

Document object for TextEdit.
As of TextEdit 1.5, a subclass of NSDocument.
*/
/*
IMPORTANT: This Apple software is supplied to you by Apple Computer, Inc. ("Apple") in
consideration of your agreement to the following terms, and your use, installation,
modification or redistribution of this Apple software constitutes acceptance of these
terms. If you do not agree with these terms, please do not use, install, modify or
redistribute this Apple software.

In consideration of your agreement to abide by the following terms, and subject to these
terms, Apple grants you a personal, non-exclusive license, under Apple's copyrights in
this original Apple software (the "Apple Software"), to use, reproduce, modify and
redistribute the Apple Software, with or without modifications, in source and/or binary
forms; provided that if you redistribute the Apple Software in its entirety and without
modifications, you must retain this notice and the following text and disclaimers in all
such redistributions of the Apple Software. Neither the name, trademarks, service marks
or logos of Apple Computer, Inc. may be used to endorse or promote products derived from
the Apple Software without specific prior written permission from Apple. Except as expressly
stated in this notice, no other rights or licenses, express or implied, are granted by Apple
herein, including but not limited to any patent rights that may be infringed by your
derivative works or by other works in which the Apple Software may be incorporated.

The Apple Software is provided by Apple on an "AS IS" basis. APPLE MAKES NO WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NON-INFRINGEMENT,
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THE APPLE SOFTWARE OR ITS
USE AND OPERATION ALONE OR IN COMBINATION WITH YOUR PRODUCTS.

IN NO EVENT SHALL APPLE BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS
OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE,
REPRODUCTION, MODIFICATION AND/OR DISTRIBUTION OF THE APPLE SOFTWARE, HOWEVER CAUSED AND
WHETHER UNDER THEORY OF CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), STRICT LIABILITY OR
OTHERWISE, EVEN IF APPLE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.
*/
_ _ _ _ _ _ _

Thoughts?

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.14.0-rc2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
"Itsdifficulttobeverycreativewithonlyfiftysevencharacters!"

2025-02-16 12:27:35 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

$ head -40 Document.m
/*
Document.m
Copyright (c) 1995-2009 by Apple Computer, Inc., all rights reserved.
Author: Ali Ozer
Document object for TextEdit.
As of TextEdit 1.5, a subclass of NSDocument.
*/
/*
IMPORTANT: This Apple software is supplied to you by Apple Computer, Inc. ("Apple") in
consideration of your agreement to the following terms, and your use, installation,
modification or redistribution of this Apple software constitutes acceptance of these
terms. If you do not agree with these terms, please do not use, install, modify or
redistribute this Apple software.
In consideration of your agreement to abide by the following terms, and subject to these
terms, Apple grants you a personal, non-exclusive license, under Apple's copyrights in
this original Apple software (the "Apple Software"), to use, reproduce, modify and
redistribute the Apple Software, with or without modifications, in source and/or binary
forms; provided that if you redistribute the Apple Software in its entirety and without
modifications, you must retain this notice and the following text and disclaimers in all
such redistributions of the Apple Software. Neither the name, trademarks, service marks
or logos of Apple Computer, Inc. may be used to endorse or promote products derived from
the Apple Software without specific prior written permission from Apple. Except as expressly
stated in this notice, no other rights or licenses, express or implied, are granted by Apple
herein, including but not limited to any patent rights that may be infringed by your
derivative works or by other works in which the Apple Software may be incorporated.
The Apple Software is provided by Apple on an "AS IS" basis. APPLE MAKES NO WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NON-INFRINGEMENT,
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THE APPLE SOFTWARE OR ITS
USE AND OPERATION ALONE OR IN COMBINATION WITH YOUR PRODUCTS.
IN NO EVENT SHALL APPLE BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS
OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE,
REPRODUCTION, MODIFICATION AND/OR DISTRIBUTION OF THE APPLE SOFTWARE, HOWEVER CAUSED AND
WHETHER UNDER THEORY OF CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), STRICT LIABILITY OR
OTHERWISE, EVEN IF APPLE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.
*/
_ _ _ _ _ _ _
Thoughts?

sure , you're an idiot

Creon

2025-02-16 13:47:43 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

sure , you're an idiot

If posting part of the source code for what is clearly
Apple software -- thus proving my point -- makes me an
"idiot", then so be it. But that makes _you_ dumber
than a bag of hammers.

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.14.0-rc2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
"This library isn't safe - I just stumbled on an idea."

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-16 16:05:45 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

$ head -40 Document.m
/*
Document.m
Copyright (c) 1995-2009 by Apple Computer, Inc., all rights reserved.
Author: Ali Ozer
Document object for TextEdit.
As of TextEdit 1.5, a subclass of NSDocument.
*/
/*
IMPORTANT: This Apple software is supplied to you by Apple Computer, Inc.
("Apple") in
consideration of your agreement to the following terms, and your use, installation,
modification or redistribution of this Apple software constitutes acceptance of these
terms. If you do not agree with these terms, please do not use, install,
modify or
redistribute this Apple software.
In consideration of your agreement to abide by the following terms, and
subject to these
terms, Apple grants you a personal, non-exclusive license, under Apple's copyrights in
this original Apple software (the "Apple Software"), to use, reproduce, modify and
redistribute the Apple Software, with or without modifications, in source
and/or binary
forms; provided that if you redistribute the Apple Software in its entirety
and without
modifications, you must retain this notice and the following text and
disclaimers in all
such redistributions of the Apple Software. Neither the name, trademarks,
service marks
or logos of Apple Computer, Inc. may be used to endorse or promote products
derived from
the Apple Software without specific prior written permission from Apple.
Except as expressly
stated in this notice, no other rights or licenses, express or implied, are
granted by Apple
herein, including but not limited to any patent rights that may be infringed by your
derivative works or by other works in which the Apple Software may be incorporated.
The Apple Software is provided by Apple on an "AS IS" basis. APPLE MAKES NO
WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
NON-INFRINGEMENT,
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THE APPLE
SOFTWARE OR ITS
USE AND OPERATION ALONE OR IN COMBINATION WITH YOUR PRODUCTS.
IN NO EVENT SHALL APPLE BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR
SERVICES; LOSS
OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE,
REPRODUCTION, MODIFICATION AND/OR DISTRIBUTION OF THE APPLE SOFTWARE,
HOWEVER CAUSED AND
WHETHER UNDER THEORY OF CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), STRICT LIABILITY OR
OTHERWISE, EVEN IF APPLE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.
*/
_ _ _ _ _ _ _
Thoughts?

sure , you're an idiot

If posting part of the source code for what is clearly
Apple software -- thus proving my point -- makes me an
"idiot", then so be it. But that makes _you_ dumber
than a bag of hammers.

That is not what makes you an "idiot". Your mindless attacks demonstrate it.

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

2025-02-16 17:33:12 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

sure , you're an idiot

If posting part of the source code for what is clearly
Apple software -- thus proving my point -- makes me an
"idiot", then so be it. But that makes _you_ dumber
than a bag of hammers.

see , you're an idiot

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-16 16:03:05 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

$ head -40 Document.m
/*
Document.m
Copyright (c) 1995-2009 by Apple Computer, Inc., all rights reserved.
Author: Ali Ozer
Document object for TextEdit.
As of TextEdit 1.5, a subclass of NSDocument.
*/
/*
IMPORTANT: This Apple software is supplied to you by Apple Computer, Inc.
("Apple") in
consideration of your agreement to the following terms, and your use, installation,
modification or redistribution of this Apple software constitutes acceptance of these
terms. If you do not agree with these terms, please do not use, install,
modify or
redistribute this Apple software.
In consideration of your agreement to abide by the following terms, and subject to these
terms, Apple grants you a personal, non-exclusive license, under Apple's copyrights in
this original Apple software (the "Apple Software"), to use, reproduce, modify and
redistribute the Apple Software, with or without modifications, in source and/or binary
forms; provided that if you redistribute the Apple Software in its entirety and without
modifications, you must retain this notice and the following text and disclaimers in all
such redistributions of the Apple Software. Neither the name, trademarks,
service marks
or logos of Apple Computer, Inc. may be used to endorse or promote products derived from
the Apple Software without specific prior written permission from Apple.
Except as expressly
stated in this notice, no other rights or licenses, express or implied, are
granted by Apple
herein, including but not limited to any patent rights that may be infringed by your
derivative works or by other works in which the Apple Software may be incorporated.
The Apple Software is provided by Apple on an "AS IS" basis. APPLE MAKES NO
WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
NON-INFRINGEMENT,
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING THE APPLE
SOFTWARE OR ITS
USE AND OPERATION ALONE OR IN COMBINATION WITH YOUR PRODUCTS.
IN NO EVENT SHALL APPLE BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR
SERVICES; LOSS
OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE,
REPRODUCTION, MODIFICATION AND/OR DISTRIBUTION OF THE APPLE SOFTWARE, HOWEVER CAUSED AND
WHETHER UNDER THEORY OF CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), STRICT LIABILITY OR
OTHERWISE, EVEN IF APPLE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.
*/
_ _ _ _ _ _ _
Thoughts?

sure , you're an idiot

Pretty much.

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

David

2025-02-16 13:42:45 UTC

On 16/02/2025 12:05, Creon wrote:
[BIG SNIP]

Post by Creon
Thoughts?

Ah, Creon, I see we're diving into the depths of TextEdit lore! 😄

Just to clarify for anyone else reading this, I think there’s been a
little mix-up between the TextEdit apps across different platforms.
While macOS's TextEdit has evolved with RTF support (and even some Word
doc compatibility), the GNUstep version that you're referring to indeed
has RTF as the default format, rooted in the NeXTSTEP days. But I guess
this is all a bit 'much ado about TextEdit,' isn't it? 😜

As for your comment about relying on 'Snit' or LLMs... well, I’m pretty
sure both have a better track record than a certain ahem other poster
known for stirring the pot on Usenet. 😏 But hey, we're all here to
learn, right? 😆

Carry on, Creon! Keep those TextEdit facts coming, and I’ll be over here
trying to figure out how to not edit system files with a text editor. 😅

--
David

Steve Carroll

2025-02-16 16:53:00 UTC

Post by David
[BIG SNIP]

Post by Creon
Thoughts?

After you polluted an html file with RTF garbage by using TextEdit when
you didn't need it to change a filename, you mean? Yes, it's definitely
"much ado about TextEdit" when it wasn't needed AT ALL!

(snip *another* goofy attempt to 'rebrand' GoOfY)

Creon

2025-02-17 01:46:51 UTC

Post by David
[BIG SNIP]

Post by Creon
Thoughts?

Ah, Creon, I see we're diving into the depths of TextEdit lore! 😄
Just to clarify for anyone else reading this, I think there’s been a
little mix-up between the TextEdit apps across different platforms.
While macOS's TextEdit has evolved with RTF support (and even some Word
doc compatibility), the GNUstep version that you're referring to indeed
has RTF as the default format, rooted in the NeXTSTEP days. But I guess
this is all a bit 'much ado about TextEdit,' isn't it? 😜
As for your comment about relying on 'Snit' or LLMs... well, I’m pretty
sure both have a better track record than a certain ahem other poster
known for stirring the pot on Usenet. 😏 But hey, we're all here to
learn, right? 😆

Well, I looked in the snubbery and saw the comments emitted by
"Snit" -- and true to form, there was no "mea culpa", no "I stand
corrected", at all with regard to the wrong answers he was giving.
Notice how contradicting him is regarded, by him, as an "attack".
But contradicting _me_ (with the wrong information -- from an LLM,
no less!) is just fine by him.

See subject, as well as the Apple copyright notice you snipped:
since the both of you are obsessively dependent on LLM's, it is
only right and proper to point out that this leads to _wrong_ _answers_.

Post by David
Carry on, Creon! Keep those TextEdit facts coming, and I’ll be over here
trying to figure out how to not edit system files with a text editor. 😅

Sure. You can peruse the source yourself if you find yourself interested.

https://salsa.debian.org/gnustep-team/textedit.app

and

https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/samplecode/TextEdit/Introduction/Intro.html

--
-c System76 Thelio Mega v1.1 x86_64 NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti
OS: Linux 6.13.2 Release: Mint 22.1 Mem: 258G
"Reality is for those who can't handle Star Trek."

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-17 02:39:55 UTC

Post by David
[BIG SNIP]

Post by Creon
Thoughts?

Ah, Creon, I see we're diving into the depths of TextEdit lore! 😄
Just to clarify for anyone else reading this, I think there’s been a
little mix-up between the TextEdit apps across different platforms.
While macOS's TextEdit has evolved with RTF support (and even some Word
doc compatibility), the GNUstep version that you're referring to indeed
has RTF as the default format, rooted in the NeXTSTEP days. But I guess
this is all a bit 'much ado about TextEdit,' isn't it? 😜
As for your comment about relying on 'Snit' or LLMs... well, I’m pretty
sure both have a better track record than a certain ahem other poster
known for stirring the pot on Usenet. 😏 But hey, we're all here to
learn, right? 😆

Well, I looked in the snubbery and saw the comments emitted by
"Snit" -- and true to form, there was no "mea culpa", no "I stand
corrected", at all with regard to the wrong answers he was giving.

Where do you think I was wrong? I bet you missed that I openly noted it was
from ChatGPT and the context there. But have at it. If I was wrong note it.

Post by Creon
Notice how contradicting him is regarded, by him, as an "attack".

What are you even contradicting? LOL! You agreed ChatGPT should not be blindly
trusted.

Post by Creon
But contradicting _me_ (with the wrong information -- from an LLM,
no less!) is just fine by him.

I doubt even you know what you are debating. LOL!

Post by Creon
since the both of you are obsessively dependent on LLM's, it is
only right and proper to point out that this leads to _wrong_ _answers_.

Who said otherwise?

Post by David
Carry on, Creon! Keep those TextEdit facts coming, and I’ll be over here
trying to figure out how to not edit system files with a text editor. 😅

Sure. You can peruse the source yourself if you find yourself interested.
https://salsa.debian.org/gnustep-team/textedit.app
and
https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/samplecode/TextEdit/Introduction/Intro.html

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

David

2025-02-17 10:15:17 UTC

Post by David
[BIG SNIP]

Post by Creon
Thoughts?

Ah, Creon, I see we're diving into the depths of TextEdit lore! 😄
Just to clarify for anyone else reading this, I think there’s been a
little mix-up between the TextEdit apps across different platforms.
While macOS's TextEdit has evolved with RTF support (and even some Word
doc compatibility), the GNUstep version that you're referring to indeed
has RTF as the default format, rooted in the NeXTSTEP days. But I guess
this is all a bit 'much ado about TextEdit,' isn't it? 😜
As for your comment about relying on 'Snit' or LLMs... well, I’m pretty
sure both have a better track record than a certain ahem other poster
known for stirring the pot on Usenet. 😏 But hey, we're all here to
learn, right? 😆

It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

Post by Creon
since the both of you are obsessively dependent on LLM's, it is
only right and proper to point out that this leads to _wrong_ _answers_.

Thank you. :-)

Post by David
Carry on, Creon! Keep those TextEdit facts coming, and I’ll be over here
trying to figure out how to not edit system files with a text editor. 😅

Sure. You can peruse the source yourself if you find yourself interested.
https://salsa.debian.org/gnustep-team/textedit.app
and
https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/samplecode/TextEdit/Introduction/Intro.html

I appreciate the leads. Thank you.

--
David

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-17 17:38:55 UTC

Post by David
[BIG SNIP]

Post by Creon
Thoughts?

Ah, Creon, I see we're diving into the depths of TextEdit lore! 😄
Just to clarify for anyone else reading this, I think there’s been a
little mix-up between the TextEdit apps across different platforms.
While macOS's TextEdit has evolved with RTF support (and even some Word
doc compatibility), the GNUstep version that you're referring to indeed
has RTF as the default format, rooted in the NeXTSTEP days. But I guess
this is all a bit 'much ado about TextEdit,' isn't it? 😜
As for your comment about relying on 'Snit' or LLMs... well, I’m pretty
sure both have a better track record than a certain ahem other poster
known for stirring the pot on Usenet. 😏 But hey, we're all here to
learn, right? 😆

It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

I showed a response from ChatGPT and was honest about that, and about how I
did not know the Linux version. There is no dishonesty nor deception there.
Creon is pushing petty squabbles that are of no interest to me.

Post by Creon
since the both of you are obsessively dependent on LLM's, it is
only right and proper to point out that this leads to _wrong_ _answers_.

Thank you. :-)

I am happy to learn they are connected and openly thankful for the info that
showed that. No need for the petty squabbles.

Post by David
Carry on, Creon! Keep those TextEdit facts coming, and I’ll be over here
trying to figure out how to not edit system files with a text editor. 😅

Sure. You can peruse the source yourself if you find yourself interested.
https://salsa.debian.org/gnustep-team/textedit.app
and
https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/samplecode/TextEdit/Introduction/Intro.html

I appreciate the leads. Thank you.

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

Steve Carroll

2025-02-17 18:33:02 UTC

Post by Brock McNuggets
I showed a response from ChatGPT

You did more than that, insane and ridiculous liar... who clearly
*still* believes people are as stupid as he needs them to be.

Notably, and hypocritically, the 'mindless idiot' that you are, you
didn't say squat to '%', who *was* being "an idiot" here. That, as
opposed to the person who proved his point with evidence. The person for
whom you hypocritically and falsely labeled their justified response as
a 'mindless attack' on the "other" 'mindless idiot' here.

--

Post by Creon
Thoughts?

sure , you're an idiot

If posting part of the source code for what is clearly
Apple software -- thus proving my point -- makes me an
"idiot", then so be it. But that makes _you_ dumber
than a bag of hammers.

That is not what makes you an "idiot". Your mindless attacks demonstrate it.
--

Stop lying, you suck at it... and stop projecting, it's goofy.

Kelly Phillips

2025-02-17 18:07:09 UTC

Post by David
It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

Don't most people develop that skill fairly early in life, say, within
the first two decades or less? What happened to you?

I imagine it must be somewhat terrifying to be well into your frail
years and not knowing who you can trust. From here to the end, things
aren't going to get any easier for you. When the nurses come in to give
you your medications, you'll be the one to kick and scream, mumbling
something about them being there to steal your organs. It ain't gonna be
pretty. Maybe they'll just tie you down, err, restrain you, I mean.

Seriously, though, I don't know how your liver is still hanging on,
considering what you've put it through. That reminds me, how is Trish's
heart doing these days? Was that event a few years ago a one time thing
or has there been another 'event'? I hope she's still shuffling about.

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-17 19:14:38 UTC

Post by David
It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

Don't most people develop that skill fairly early in life, say, within
the first two decades or less? What happened to you?
I imagine it must be somewhat terrifying to be well into your frail
years and not knowing who you can trust. From here to the end, things
aren't going to get any easier for you. When the nurses come in to give
you your medications, you'll be the one to kick and scream, mumbling
something about them being there to steal your organs. It ain't gonna be
pretty. Maybe they'll just tie you down, err, restrain you, I mean.
Seriously, though, I don't know how your liver is still hanging on,
considering what you've put it through. That reminds me, how is Trish's
heart doing these days? Was that event a few years ago a one time thing
or has there been another 'event'? I hope she's still shuffling about.

Wow, that’s quite the projection. It takes a special kind of person to craft a
response dripping with such faux concern while lacing it with outright malice.
The level of vitriol here is almost impressive—if it weren’t so transparently
desperate.

Let’s break it down: You start with an insult that hinges on the assumption
that basic social skills are universally mastered in early life, as if life
experiences, neurodiversity, or even simple individuality don’t exist. Then,
you veer hard into this bizarre fantasy about my supposed descent into
paranoid delusion and medical restraint, as if that’s some sort of fate you’re
eagerly waiting for. It’s telling, really—because that kind of unhinged
speculation says a lot more about you than it does about me.

And then we get to the real low blow—dragging someone else’s health into this.
That’s where your mask of smug superiority completely slips. If you had even a
shred of actual decency, you’d realize that taking cheap shots at someone’s
medical history isn’t just a weak attempt at cruelty—it’s a flashing neon sign
that you have absolutely nothing of value to say.

So, what happened to me? Nothing. I’m still standing. What happened to you,
though? Because it sure looks like whatever decency or self-respect you once
had rotted away a long time ago.

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

David

2025-02-17 19:51:18 UTC

Post by David
It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

Don't most people develop that skill fairly early in life, say, within
the first two decades or less? What happened to you?
I imagine it must be somewhat terrifying to be well into your frail
years and not knowing who you can trust. From here to the end, things
aren't going to get any easier for you. When the nurses come in to give
you your medications, you'll be the one to kick and scream, mumbling
something about them being there to steal your organs. It ain't gonna be
pretty. Maybe they'll just tie you down, err, restrain you, I mean.
Seriously, though, I don't know how your liver is still hanging on,
considering what you've put it through. That reminds me, how is Trish's
heart doing these days? Was that event a few years ago a one time thing
or has there been another 'event'? I hope she's still shuffling about.

Wow, that’s quite the projection. It takes a special kind of person to craft a
response dripping with such faux concern while lacing it with outright malice.
The level of vitriol here is almost impressive—if it weren’t so transparently
desperate.
Let’s break it down: You start with an insult that hinges on the assumption
that basic social skills are universally mastered in early life, as if life
experiences, neurodiversity, or even simple individuality don’t exist. Then,
you veer hard into this bizarre fantasy about my supposed descent into
paranoid delusion and medical restraint, as if that’s some sort of fate you’re
eagerly waiting for. It’s telling, really—because that kind of unhinged
speculation says a lot more about you than it does about me.
And then we get to the real low blow—dragging someone else’s health into this.
That’s where your mask of smug superiority completely slips. If you had even a
shred of actual decency, you’d realize that taking cheap shots at someone’s
medical history isn’t just a weak attempt at cruelty—it’s a flashing neon sign
that you have absolutely nothing of value to say.
So, what happened to me? Nothing. I’m still standing. What happened to you,
though? Because it sure looks like whatever decency or self-respect you once
had rotted away a long time ago.

Thank you, my friend! 😄

--
David

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-17 21:11:17 UTC

Post by David
It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

Don't most people develop that skill fairly early in life, say, within
the first two decades or less? What happened to you?
I imagine it must be somewhat terrifying to be well into your frail
years and not knowing who you can trust. From here to the end, things
aren't going to get any easier for you. When the nurses come in to give
you your medications, you'll be the one to kick and scream, mumbling
something about them being there to steal your organs. It ain't gonna be
pretty. Maybe they'll just tie you down, err, restrain you, I mean.
Seriously, though, I don't know how your liver is still hanging on,
considering what you've put it through. That reminds me, how is Trish's
heart doing these days? Was that event a few years ago a one time thing
or has there been another 'event'? I hope she's still shuffling about.

Wow, that’s quite the projection. It takes a special kind of person to craft a
response dripping with such faux concern while lacing it with outright malice.
The level of vitriol here is almost impressive—if it weren’t so transparently
desperate.
Let’s break it down: You start with an insult that hinges on the assumption
that basic social skills are universally mastered in early life, as if life
experiences, neurodiversity, or even simple individuality don’t exist. Then,
you veer hard into this bizarre fantasy about my supposed descent into
paranoid delusion and medical restraint, as if that’s some sort of fate you’re
eagerly waiting for. It’s telling, really—because that kind of unhinged
speculation says a lot more about you than it does about me.
And then we get to the real low blow—dragging someone else’s health into this.
That’s where your mask of smug superiority completely slips. If you had even a
shred of actual decency, you’d realize that taking cheap shots at someone’s
medical history isn’t just a weak attempt at cruelty—it’s a flashing neon sign
that you have absolutely nothing of value to say.
So, what happened to me? Nothing. I’m still standing. What happened to you,
though? Because it sure looks like whatever decency or self-respect you once
had rotted away a long time ago.

Thank you, my friend! 😄

My pleasure.

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

Kelly Phillips

2025-02-17 22:22:01 UTC

Post by David
It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

Don't most people develop that skill fairly early in life, say, within
the first two decades or less? What happened to you?
I imagine it must be somewhat terrifying to be well into your frail
years and not knowing who you can trust. From here to the end, things
aren't going to get any easier for you. When the nurses come in to give
you your medications, you'll be the one to kick and scream, mumbling
something about them being there to steal your organs. It ain't gonna be
pretty. Maybe they'll just tie you down, err, restrain you, I mean.
Seriously, though, I don't know how your liver is still hanging on,
considering what you've put it through. That reminds me, how is Trish's
heart doing these days? Was that event a few years ago a one time thing
or has there been another 'event'? I hope she's still shuffling about.

Thank you, my friend! ?

Don't leave me hangin', bro.

David

2025-02-17 22:32:52 UTC

Post by David
It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

Don't most people develop that skill fairly early in life, say, within
the first two decades or less? What happened to you?
I imagine it must be somewhat terrifying to be well into your frail
years and not knowing who you can trust. From here to the end, things
aren't going to get any easier for you. When the nurses come in to give
you your medications, you'll be the one to kick and scream, mumbling
something about them being there to steal your organs. It ain't gonna be
pretty. Maybe they'll just tie you down, err, restrain you, I mean.
Seriously, though, I don't know how your liver is still hanging on,
considering what you've put it through. That reminds me, how is Trish's
heart doing these days? Was that event a few years ago a one time thing
or has there been another 'event'? I hope she's still shuffling about.

Thank you, my friend! ?

Don't leave me hangin', bro.

Email me. K?

Kelly Phillips

2025-02-18 02:49:30 UTC

Post by David
It's difficult to know just WHO to trust!

Don't most people develop that skill fairly early in life, say, within
the first two decades or less? What happened to you?
I imagine it must be somewhat terrifying to be well into your frail
years and not knowing who you can trust. From here to the end, things
aren't going to get any easier for you. When the nurses come in to give
you your medications, you'll be the one to kick and scream, mumbling
something about them being there to steal your organs. It ain't gonna be
pretty. Maybe they'll just tie you down, err, restrain you, I mean.
Seriously, though, I don't know how your liver is still hanging on,
considering what you've put it through. That reminds me, how is Trish's
heart doing these days? Was that event a few years ago a one time thing
or has there been another 'event'? I hope she's still shuffling about.

Thank you, my friend! ?

Don't leave me hangin', bro.

Email me. K?

Hit me up on FB or LI.

Steve Carroll

2025-02-17 17:23:45 UTC

Post by David
[BIG SNIP]

Post by Creon
Thoughts?

Ah, Creon, I see we're diving into the depths of TextEdit lore! 😄
Just to clarify for anyone else reading this, I think there’s been a
little mix-up between the TextEdit apps across different platforms.
While macOS's TextEdit has evolved with RTF support (and even some Word
doc compatibility), the GNUstep version that you're referring to indeed
has RTF as the default format, rooted in the NeXTSTEP days. But I guess
this is all a bit 'much ado about TextEdit,' isn't it? 😜
As for your comment about relying on 'Snit' or LLMs... well, I’m pretty
sure both have a better track record than a certain ahem other poster
known for stirring the pot on Usenet. 😏 But hey, we're all here to
learn, right? 😆

Well, I looked in the snubbery and saw the comments emitted by
"Snit" -- and true to form, there was no "mea culpa"i

LOL! After watching him 'operate' in COLA all those years, did you
really expect one? Even if he gave one, you already know he'd crow
about it loudly to "show" how "honest and honorable" he is. There would
be no sincerity in it, only an attempt to 'gain' trust.

2025-02-16 12:27:04 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

never listen to what creon says

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-16 16:03:16 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

never listen to what creon says

Good advice.

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-16 16:03:38 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead

Post by David
Who would like to discuss this with me?
https://dev.to/kcdchennai/understanding-etcpasswd-file-in-linux-1k2d

Yes: Given your track history, I'd recommend you don't mess with it.
You will probably break your system.
Instead, use your distro's supplied gui tools to make changes.

I predict that this is going to get very messy.
Hopefully he has a known to be good back up.

Are you thinking he'll try to edit it with his favorite text editor,
TextEdit(?), then save it as .rtf, and thus totally screwing up the
format? ;-)

Yep. You read my mind :)

I was surprised to find that TextEdit is in Linux Mint, also.

Different apps with the same name. Or so says chatGPT.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The apps called TextEdit in macOS and Linux Mint share a name but are
completely different in function, design, and capabilities. Here’s how they
1. Origin & Default Status
• macOS TextEdit: Developed by Apple, TextEdit is the default text
editor on macOS and has been included since the early days of macOS (and
before that in NeXTSTEP).
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Not an official or default app—it is a
lightweight third-party text editor available for Linux, but not preinstalled
in Mint. Linux Mint’s default text editor is Xed, which is based on Gedit.
2. Features & Capabilities
• Supports both plain text (.txt) and rich text (.rtf, .rtfd) editing.
• Can open, edit, and save Word documents (.doc, .docx) with basic
formatting.
• Supports images, fonts, colors, and lists in rich text mode.
• Includes spell check, text-to-speech, and basic HTML editing.
• Simple, but offers some word processor-like features.
• A simple plain text editor—no rich text support.
• Very lightweight and minimal, focused solely on plain text editing.
• Lacks advanced formatting, but good for coding and script editing.
• Does not include built-in spell check or word processing tools.
• More akin to Notepad on Windows than macOS’s TextEdit.
3. UI & User Experience
• macOS TextEdit: Clean, polished, and integrated with macOS features
like iCloud syncing, autosave, and dark mode. Offers both lightweight editing
and some word processing.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Barebones interface, no rich text or extra
formatting tools, very fast and minimalist, aimed at quick edits or code
writing.
4. Use Cases
• macOS TextEdit: Good for quick notes, rich text documents, basic word
processing, and even opening Word files.
• Linux Mint TextEdit: Good for quick plaintext editing, modifying
config files, or lightweight script editing.
Conclusion
Despite sharing a name, macOS TextEdit is much more feature-rich, with rich
text, formatting, and some word processor-like capabilities. The Linux Mint
TextEdit app is far more basic, only handling plain text. If you’re looking
for something equivalent to macOS’s TextEdit on Linux, Xed, Gedit, or
LibreOffice Writer would be better choices.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

THANK YOU! 🙂

The default file format for TextEdit.app is RTF. That's the name of
the GNUStep text editor, and theoretically the precursor to the Mac
version, with a provenance from NeXTStep.
$ dpkg -l textedit.app
Desired=Unknown/Install/Remove/Purge/Hold
| Status=Not/Inst/Conf-files/Unpacked/halF-conf/Half-inst/trig-aWait/Trig-pend
|/ Err?=(none)/Reinst-required (Status,Err: uppercase=bad)
||/ Name Version Architecture Description
+++-==============-============-============-=================================
ii textedit.app 5.0-3 amd64 Text editor for GNUstep
https://imgur.com/7g8bvsC
David,
This is what happens when you rely on "Snit", or LLM's (or both) for
your information: you end up having the disadvantage of being wrong.

Your attack is noted.

--
Specialist in unnecessary details and overcomplicated solutions.

Brock McNuggets

2025-02-16 15:35:18 UTC

Post by Kelly Phillips
On Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:50:13 -0000 (UTC), pothead