# getBytes(_:maxLength:usedLength:encoding:options:range:remaining:) Gets a given range of characters as bytes in a specified encoding. ``` func getBytes(_ buffer: UnsafeMutableRawPointer?, maxLength maxBufferCount: Int, usedLength usedBufferCount: UnsafeMutablePointer?, encoding: UInt, options: NSString.EncodingConversionOptions = [], range: NSRange, remaining leftover: NSRangePointer?) -> Bool ``` ## Parameters `buffer` A buffer into which to store the bytes from the receiver. The returned bytes are *not* `NULL`-terminated. `maxBufferCount` The maximum number of bytes to write to `buffer`. `usedBufferCount` The number of bytes used from `buffer`. Pass `NULL` if you do not need this value. `encoding` The encoding to use for the returned bytes. For possible values, see [`NSStringEncoding`](/documentation/Foundation/NSStringEncoding). `options` A mask to specify options to use for converting the receiver’s contents to `encoding` (if conversion is necessary). `range` The range of characters in the receiver to get. `leftover` The remaining range. Pass `NULL` If you do not need this value. ## Return Value if some characters were converted, otherwise . ## Discussion Conversion might stop when the buffer fills, but it might also stop when the conversion isn’t possible due to the chosen encoding. --- 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)