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# AudioQueueRef

Defines an opaque data type that represents an audio queue.

```
typealias AudioQueueRef = OpaquePointer
```

## Discussion

An audio queue is a software object you use for recording or playing audio in macOS. It does the work of:

- Connecting to audio hardware
- Managing memory
- Employing codecs, as needed, for compressed audio formats
- Mediating recording or playback

You create, use, and dispose of audio queues using the functions described in [Audio Queue Services](/documentation/AudioToolbox/audio-queue-services).

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