I should probably clarify my last statement a bit:
but higher-end Cocoa apps often need the speed that you get from working at a lower level
What I mean by this is that higher-end apps often need optimization in certain, specific areas of the code, typically found using a profiling tool like Shark. In those places you might be better off using raw C data structures. In most cases, though, you can use Foundation or Core Foundation.
I don't want to leave anyone with the wrong impression. The Foundation storage classes are made up of highly-optimized, industrial-strength code. They fit the bill in the vast majority of cases.
by Scott Stevenson — Feb 27
but higher-end Cocoa apps often need the speed that you get from working at a lower level
What I mean by this is that higher-end apps often need optimization in certain, specific areas of the code, typically found using a profiling tool like Shark. In those places you might be better off using raw C data structures. In most cases, though, you can use Foundation or Core Foundation.
I don't want to leave anyone with the wrong impression. The Foundation storage classes are made up of highly-optimized, industrial-strength code. They fit the bill in the vast majority of cases.