lsregister MacOS Command Guide

The MacOS lsregister command allows users to manage the Launch Services database, which stores information about applications and file types. By using this command, you can reset the database, view its contents, and troubleshoot issues related to file associations. This powerful tool is especially useful for resolving problems with file types not opening in the expected application or applications not appearing as options when opening a specific file. With the lsregister command, you can ensure that your MacOS system functions smoothly and efficiently by maintaining and updating the Launch Services database accurately.

lsregister Syntax:

lsregister [options] [parameters]

Options:

Option	Description
-kill	Reset the Launch Services database.
-lint	Check files for registration issues.
-dump	Print registrations in a human-readable format.
-seed	Seed the database with the defaults.
-apps	Display registered applications.

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
path	Path to the file or directory to register.
bundleid	Bundle ID of the application to register.
path	path

Caution

Exercise caution when using the lsregister command, as incorrect usage may result in the alteration of Launch Services database and potentially have unintended consequences on the system’s file associations. It is recommended to proceed with caution and ensure the correct usage of options and parameters to avoid any system disruptions.

lsregister Command Samples:

Register an Application

lsregister -register /Applications/MyApp.app

Registers the specified application with the Launch Services database.

List all registered applications

lsregister -dump

Displays a list of all applications registered in the Launch Services database.

Verify the registration of an application

lsregister -lint -f /Applications/MyApp.app

Checks and verifies the registration of the specified application in the Launch Services database.

Show the default application for a specific file type

lsregister -dump | grep .txt

Finds and displays the default application associated with the “.txt” file type.

Unregister an application

lsregister -u /Applications/MyApp.app

Unregisters the specified application from the Launch Services database.

Rebuild the Launch Services database

lsregister -kill -seed

Rebuilds the Launch Services database, resolving issues related to application registrations.

Open the registered app’s URL on the App Store

lsregister -url telnet

Opens the URL of the registered application on the App Store, using the specified identifier.

Tip

When using the lsregister command in MacOS, make sure to consult the man pages (man lsregister) for a comprehensive overview of all the available options and their functionalities.

How do I use lsregister in MacOS?

To use the lsregister command in MacOS, execute the following command:

lsregister -lint

How can I rebuild the Launch Services database using lsregister in MacOS?

To rebuild the Launch Services database using lsregister in MacOS, run the following command:

lsregister -kill -seed -r

How do I list all the applications registered with lsregister in MacOS?

To list all applications registered with lsregister in MacOS, use the following command:

lsregister -dump

How can I register a specific application with lsregister in MacOS?

To register a specific application with lsregister in MacOS, use the following command:

lsregister -f /Path/To/Application.app

How do I unregister a specific application with lsregister in MacOS?

To unregister a specific application with lsregister in MacOS, execute the following command:

lsregister -u /Path/To/Application.app

How can I force lsregister to update all applications in MacOS?

To force lsregister to update all applications in MacOS, run the following command:

lsregister -f -R

Applications of the lsregister command

• Updating the Launch Services database
• Managing file associations and default applications
• Troubleshooting issues with file open actions and associations
• Resetting the Launch Services database at system or user level
• Viewing information about registered applications and file types
• Triggering a re-registration of applications and file types
• Rebuilding the Launch Services database
• Clearing the Launch Services cache