# Command key

> computer key on Macintosh keyboards

**Wikidata**: [Q814188](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q814188)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Command_key)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/command-key

## Summary
The Command key is a modifier key on Macintosh keyboards that alters the function of other keys, enabling shortcuts like copying (Cmd+C) or quitting apps (Cmd+Q). Also known as the Apple key or ⌘ key, it is central to Mac user interaction and is equivalent to the Super key on other platforms.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Modifier key (changes the semantics of other keys).
- **Parent**: G-code (programming language, inception 1950).
- **Aliases**: Apple key, Open Apple key, ⌘ key, Cmd key, Tecla Comando, and others.
- **Unicode Character**: ⌘ (Looped square).
- **Equivalence**: Same as the Super key (by scancode).
- **Sitelink Count**: 20 (Wikidata).
- **Image/Icon**: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Apple_key.jpg (image), https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/U+2318.svg (icon).
- **Freebase ID**: /m/04lmnw (referenced in 2013).

## FAQs
### Q: What is the Command key used for?
A: The Command key modifies other keys to perform actions (e.g., Cmd+S for save) and is essential for shortcuts on Macintosh systems.

### Q: Why is it called the Apple key?
A: Early Macintosh keyboards featured an Apple logo on the key, though modern versions use the ⌘ symbol.

### Q: Is the Command key the same as the Windows Super key?
A: Yes, they share the same scancode function, making the Command key equivalent to the Super key on non-Mac systems.

## Why It Matters
The Command key is integral to the Macintosh user experience, streamlining workflows through keyboard shortcuts and defining Apple’s interface design. Its introduction popularized modifier-based navigation, influencing computing norms. Recognizable by its ⌘ symbol, it serves as a cultural and functional hallmark of Apple devices, ensuring consistency across applications and reinforcing brand identity.

## Notable For
- **Symbol Design**: Features the unique ⌘ glyph, originally designed by Susan Kare.
- **Alias Recognition**: Known by over 10 names (e.g., Tecla Manzana, Cmd key) across regions.
- **Cross-Platform Role**: Functions as the Super key equivalent, bridging Mac and other operating systems.
- **Cultural Impact**: Emblematic of Apple’s focus on intuitive, minimalist design.

## Body
### Instance and Classification
- **Class**: Modifier key (alters key behavior).
- **Parent Entity**: G-code (programming language, established 1950).

### Technical Specifications
- **Unicode**: ⌘ (U+2318, “Looped square”).
- **Scancode Equivalence**: Matches the Super key (shared functionality).

### Aliases and Terminology
- **Common Names**: Apple key, Cmd key, ⌘ key.
- **Regional Terms**: Tecla Comando (Spanish), Tecla Manzana (Spanish).

### Visual Identity
- **Icon**: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/U+2318.svg.
- **Image**: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Apple_key.jpg.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013