Is a pointer used with a NSTimeInterval?

Question

Do you use a pointer with a NSTimeInterval even though it is defined to be an int?
For instance do you use: NSTimeInterval *time or NSTimeInterval time

Thank You!

Answer 1

NSTimeInterval is a double, double-click the symbol while holding Cmd to see the typedef. Usually you will use it directly, but you can use a pointer for example to be able to change the value in a method call:

- (void) doSomethingLongAndReturnDuration: (NSTimeInterval*) duration
{
    CFAbsoluteTime start = CFAbsoluteTimeGetCurrent();
    …
    CFAbsoluteTime end = CFAbsoluteTimeGetCurrent();
    *duration = end-start;
}

This is a weird example, but you get the idea.

Answer 2

NSTimeInterval is typedef to double. There is usually no reason to use pointer

Answer 3

No, you don't generally need/use a pointer with NSTimeInterval, so NSTimeInterval time should be just fine.