I remember Mac OS 8 not having file extensions and it was very difficult to change a file's type. I believe hexedit was involved. Extensions IMO are way more reliable.
Apple type/creator was a superior metadata system for sure, but the UI was opaque for non-technical users. Paired with the modern "open with..." settings, it would still be better than how file extensions are used today.
Apple type/creator was a superior metadata system for sure, but the UI was opaque for non-technical users. Paired with the modern "open with..." settings, it would still be better than how file extensions are used today.