Notarization

Notarization is Apple’s automated assessment of Mac software submitted by a developer. It checks for known malicious content and code-signing issues, and issues a ticket when the software passes.

Gatekeeper, macOS’s security system for downloaded software, uses the notarization ticket alongside other security checks when deciding whether to allow software to open. A ticket can be attached to the distributed file, a process called stapling, so macOS can find it without downloading it from Apple.

Notarization is separate from code signing and is not App Store review. It does not establish that the signer is the developer you intended to download from. Verify the expected developer identity and the integrity of the signed contents as well.

See verifying the BetterDisplay installer and app for the checks. BetterDisplay’s installer DMG is signed and notarized starting with v5.1.1. The app bundle has its own signature and notarization, which you can check independently.