What do the “M” and “A” icons in the Project Navigator of Xcode 4 mean when I create a new project?

Question

Xcode 4 is showing me grey \"M\" and \"A\" icons next to my files in the project navigator. I believe they\'re related to source control.

The point is this: All my o

Answer 1

As others have said, they're related to source control. If you've made sure that no .git or .svn directories appear in your project and they still show up, then it's just an Xcode bug. Ignore it or file a bug with Apple.

On a side note, you SHOULD be using source control.

Answer 2

Tags such as "M" or "A" next to files in Xcode indicates that your project in under SVN/GIT repository. "M" indicates content of file Modified whereas "A" for file Added.

It is recommended to keep your project under SVN/GIT provision.

Answer 3

Yes, it is related to source control.

"M" means the file has been modified since the last commit, and "A" means the file has been added since the last commit.

If you're using git, you can remove source control by deleting the .git directory in your project folder.

Answer 4

It's great to have folks provide clarification on the meaning of the different source control status.

Now, specific to your question about the "!" identifier, it is likely that you had moved files outside of Xcode. So, even if they are not 'missing', they will be identified as having changed without purview by Xcode.

To get Xcode to accept the changed source files, do a commit. HOWEVER, Xcode will specifically not select files marked with ! for commit. You will notice to the left of all files that there is a checkbox available. If you did indeed intend for the files to be altered outide of Xcode, then select these and commit them. You will find that the ! symbol is removed afterwards.

Answer 5

I'm guessing you opted to create a local git repository when you created the project. They are indeed related to source control and they mean "Modified" and "Added". The reason they're not showing for your old projects will be because you're not using source control with them, but like I say, I reckon you opted to create a local git repository when you created the projects.