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Tips: Delete duplicate entries in "Open With..." dialog in Finder


Duplicates!!!
When you control+click (or right click if you have enabled that option) on Mountain Lion, and there seems to be several duplicate applications listed and/or apps you no longer use, here is a Terminal shell script that will fix that.  Just copy and paste the code below in a Terminal window.

 /System/Library/Frameworks/CoreServices.framework/Versions/A/Frameworks/LaunchServices.framework/Versions/A/Support/lsregister -kill -r -domain local -domain user

(Terminal can be found using Launchpad or Spotlight) After pasting, hit the Return key and allow time to run, then type "killAll Finder" without the quotes, and Return.  This will rebuild the "Open With..." menu.  If you do not see an immediate effect on the lists, restart your Mac.  Should be no need to restart. (Thanks, JK)
Duplicates and old apps gone!

If you wish, you can make a Service that will do it using Automator as well:
Open Automator (Launch Pad or Applications folder)
Create Service (Gear Icon)
Make new Service using Automator
Next, add a Run Shell Script step and type in the code above.  (Paste it in if you want to save typing and reduce errors.)
Then add another Run Shell Script with the killall Finder command.
Save as a service with a name you choose. Then Select from the Services menu when you need it.

Service Workflow

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Comments

Unknown said…
Good tip! There's one way you can have it take effect without having to restart your Mac. After the first command in Terminal, do a second command killAll Finder When Finder comes back the duplicates will be gone.

I've had the same issue. Evernote and Pixelmator seem to be the biggest offender for this. Is it the way they update? I have no idea.
May 21, 2013 at 9:54 AM
Unknown said…
Great tip! Thanks!! That was driving me crazy! :)
May 28, 2013 at 7:41 AM
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