Is there a way to Disable Data Detectors in macOS Preview.

Sometimes a Number is just a number, especially in a documents like PDFs.


Data Detectors can get a bit overzealous in interpreting a serial number or part number or other numeric string as a Phone Number.

Well guess what!? Most strings of Numerals are not phone numbers!


There needs to be an option to either completely disable Data Detectors of a specific kind, or in a specific app or globally.

Mac mini (2018)

Posted on Dec 2, 2023 6:06 PM

Reply

Similar questions

3 replies

Dec 3, 2023 1:38 AM in response to Dan Woods

Detect dates, contacts, and more in documents on Mac


Many apps automatically detect data (such as dates, locations, or phone numbers) that can be used in other apps, such as Calendar or Contacts; some apps may even suggest new events or contacts based on the data. For some apps, you can turn data detection on or off.


  1. In an app on your Mac, open a document, then choose Edit > Substitutions > Data Detectors (a checkmark shows it’s on).
  2. Move the pointer over a phone number, email address, street address, date, or time anywhere in the text.
  3. Click the arrow in the box that outlines the data, then choose a command from the pop-up menu.
  4. You can also force click the outlined information.



As for Removing a Builtin Function within the Apple Application " Preview "


Feedback - macOS - Apple


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Is there a way to Disable Data Detectors in macOS Preview.

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.