# formatter The cell’s formatter object. ``` var formatter: Formatter? { get set } ``` ## Discussion A formatter handles the translation of the receiver’s contents between its onscreen representation and its object value. Cells use a formatter object to format the textual representation of their object value and to validate cell input and convert that input to an object value. When assigning a new formatter to a cell, the formatter attempts to interpret the cell’s current value. If it cannot do so, the formatter converts the current value to a string object. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)