What Is a Golden Master

Gold master or golden master may refer to: a final version of software ready for release to manufacturing (The term is taken from the audio record making industry, specifically the process of mastering) a master recording from which copies can be made.

Why is it called gold master?

The term itself comes from the old practice of recordable CDs being manufactured with gold film. Hence the gold colored CD actually being the source, with no reference to copies sold as in the recording industry.

What is gold master build?

Release to manufacturing (RTM) A copy of the RTM build known as the “gold master” or GM is sent for mass duplication or disc replication if applicable. This terminology is taken from the audio record making industry, specifically the process of mastering.