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OpenAL for Mac OS X FAQ

OpenAL is a cross-platform 3D audio API appropriate for use with gaming applications and many other types of audio applications. It is included as part of Mac OS X Tiger and is also available as an open source project for other versions of Mac OS X. It provides an environmental context for audio, allowing developers to immerse users in multichannel, directional sound. Apple has contributed modifications to the OpenAL project that provide optimizations using the performance and fidelity of Core Audio. These modifications result in dramatic performance enhancements for gaming audio on Mac OS X, and make OpenAL the preferred method for developing game audio on Mac OS X.


OpenAL Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What's the latest version of OpenAL for Mac OS X?
  2. What are the supported platforms?
  3. Where can I find the source code?
  4. Where can I download an installer?
  5. Where can I get support?
  6. Where can I find more information about OpenAL?


1. What's the latest version of OpenAL for Mac OS X?

OpenAL v1.2. In Mac OS X v10.4Tiger, this version is packaged inside a 1.0 framework.
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2. What are the supported platforms?

OpenAL is delivered as part of Mac OS X v10.4 Tiger. The library available from the Creative website requires Mac OS X v10.2.8 or later, and the Core Audio enhancements delivered with QuickTime 6.4 or later. For best performance, Core Audio enhancements from QuickTime 6.5.1 or later are recommended.
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3. Where can I find the source code?

Details of obtaining source code from CVS can be found on the OpenAL website. Source code is available in the directory labeled "macosx."
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4. Where can I download an installer for platforms other than Tiger?

You can download a compiled version of the OpenAL library for Mac OS X from the Creative website.
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5. Where can I get support?

Apple actively participates in the OpenAL mailing lists, where you can post questions or issues. Visit OpenAL.org to subscribe to these lists.

For Apple-specific technology discussions, join the Core Audio discussion list.
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6. Where can I get more information about OpenAL?

Visit the OpenAL website for more information about the technology, including features, specifications, mailing lists, licensing, shipping titles, and more.
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