What is improving.

14. September 2026 · Alpha · Build 55 · Private candidate

0.30.0 · Missing capture locations

Location suggestions with camera/phone selection and clock correction; direct selection, XMP application, dismissal and protected undo. Optional stricter automatic matching after imports, with independently confirmed Immich metadata refresh. New source coordinates are preserved in the XMP.

Private development version. Full candidate checks, accuracy with personal photos, installation and publication are documented separately. Update all archive writers before making changes. Public downloads remain on 0.28.0. Location matching in the handbook.

Private candidate · 14 September 2026 · Build 54

0.29.0 · Time remaining while archiving

The main window and menu bar show the same estimate of time remaining. TrueArchive learns from actual verification, copying and finalization, accounting for file sizes and the different work required by new and already archived images.

Uncertain estimates use a range; stable estimates also show an expected completion time. If only the current step or source can be estimated, the display says so. Pauses and Mac sleep do not distort the learned timings.

Apple Photos batches include known waits and reset remaining counts after an allowed restart. For Immich, the first estimate ends at the prepared preview; archiving begins after your confirmation. Bounded experience data stays on this Mac and contains no file names or image metadata.

Private candidate: all nine validation stages passed, including 1141 app tests with 26 intended skips and no failures, plus the universal package. Accuracy with personal media, release performance, installation and publication remain separate checks. The public download and update feed remain on 0.28.0. Time estimates in the handbook.

Alpha · 14 September 2026 · Build 53

0.28.0 · Activity log, Apple Photos and Immich albums

“Help → Show activity log…” and the menu bar open a readable history of imports, Immich and backups. Copy, log file and Finder actions stay available while work is running. The optional support package includes TrueArchive.log; text and structured diagnostics share the existing 5 MiB and seven-day limit. Private paths, filenames, keys and raw server messages are excluded.

When Apple Photos temporarily changes its library state, TrueArchive retries a manual sync at most twice. Confirmed imports are retained. Schedules back off after repeated changes; missing access, a different archive and actual file conflicts still receive specific reports.

Imports and repeat syncs avoid rebuilding filename lists and preparing the same metadata twice. Original files, editing variants and source records still receive all existing checks; no persistent cache is added.

The next Immich organization backup also writes album names as regular “Album: ” keywords in common XMP files. Renames and removed memberships change only proven owned entries. Existing manual tags and unknown XMP fields are retained; generated album keywords are not sent back to Immich as new tags. After first use, every writing Mac requires at least 0.28.0.

The second backup also catches up its first missed daily run. Restore destinations cannot be inside an existing archive. An unreadable completion receipt leaves existing data snapshots available as unconfirmed rescue material. Internal Apple SSDs are recognized through the physical disk list even when macOS device details report an unknown type. Two volumes on the same disk remain ineligible as independent backups.

Available as a download and app update. All eleven release checks and nine fixed performance comparisons passed. This release also includes the previously private milestones below: drive review, Lightroom exports, date filters, Immich organization and face metadata, and encrypted backup with dated snapshots and restore. Update all Macs writing to the archive to 0.28.0 before using the new metadata features. Intel runtime and personal photo/drive acceptance remain separate checks. This alpha is not notarized by Apple; keep an independent copy of your photos. Activity log · Apple Photos · Immich organization · Backup and restore.

Private candidate · 13 September 2026 · Build 52

0.27.1 · Activity log from the menu

“Help → Show activity log…” and a dedicated menu bar button open a readable activity history. Refresh, copy, open log file and Finder actions remain available during archiving.

Imports, Immich, drive review, keyword analysis and second backups provide typed events. Backups report phases, counts, specific errors and actual completion; stopping is first logged as a request. File rescue and complete archive activation have distinct descriptions.

The local UTF-8 file TrueArchive.log is also included in the optional support package. It shares the existing limit of 5 MiB and seven days with structured diagnostics. No private filenames, paths, keys or raw server messages are included. The window shows the latest 500 entries; the file contains the entire available history.

Archive and setup formats are unchanged. The full candidate build, installation and publication remain separate steps. Use the activity log and support package.

Private candidate · 13 September 2026 · Build 51

0.27.0 · Second backup and restore

Encrypted snapshots with bundled restic 0.18.1 on a separate physical APFS/HFS+ drive. Manual backups, an optional daily schedule owned by one Mac, structure/data checks and independent full or selective restore. Completion requires a matching portable encrypted receipt; unconfirmed data remains identified as rescue material.

Restore retains originals, common XMPs and logical identities, with controlled physical root rebinding and paused automatic tasks. Unknown formats cannot become a writable archive. Import handoff waits for the actual backup process to end; updates, ejection and quitting respect the same reservation. Old snapshots are not deleted automatically.

Immich organization: missing description/rating fields no longer count as removals. Clearing a rating uses JSON null; rejected ratings remain supported. Existing face backup is preserved. Setup schema 10 reads previous sources and date filters; the second backup itself requires no new archive writer feature.

Native restic tests, frozen historical format fixtures, byte comparisons and a separate bounded data/memory workload extend the serial build pipeline. Candidate checks, release performance, the other native architecture, physical drive acceptance and installation remain separate evidence. No public release is claimed. Usage and recovery.

Private candidate · September 13, 2026 · Build 50

0.26.0 · Back up people and faces

Immich organization backup can now include named, visible people and face rectangles in the common XMP. “Include people and face regions” is initially off; the account key requires face.read.

MWG face regions and IPTC person names respect original dimensions and EXIF orientation. Other regions, development recipes and media are preserved. Known name changes are saved; missing faces do not delete the existing backup. Images edited in Immich and unproven geometry remain pending for this extra feature.

Faces are not yet restored into Immich. After the first saved face region, every writing Mac needs 0.26.0 or later; preferences use schema 9. Targeted tests, the full candidate run and the outstanding personal recognition trial are separate checks. This is not evidence of installation or publication. Usage and limits.

0.25.0 · Back up Immich organization

Build 49 · Private candidate, not yet published · 2026-09-13

Back up favorites, owned albums, descriptions, tags and ratings from a linked Immich archive library in common XMP files. Includes automatic backup with persistent pause, manual backup, actionable conflicts and explicit restoration of actual albums and favorites. Membership removals are recorded; original media, other renditions, dates and GPS are retained.

After the first backup, all Macs writing to this archive require at least 0.25.0; preferences use schema 8. Full candidate, performance and installation checks are recorded separately. Usage and limits.

0.24.0 · Lightroom export source

Build 48 · Private candidate, not yet published · 2026-09-13

Import originals and finished edits from local Lightroom export folders, preserving existing XMP and recording provenance. Sources support date filters, local schedules and their own keyword preferences. No automatic Adobe cloud or catalog import. Settings use schema 7; older settings retain their sources and filters when loaded.

Reconnect Apple Photos explicitly after changing the System Photo Library. Old previews and sync positions are discarded while schedules and the archive stay intact. Activity status now identifies the connection check correctly, and Apply date range sits directly beside the date settings.

Lightroom export

0.23.0 · XMP date precision and shared tags

Build 47 · Candidate under review, not yet published · 2026-09-12

Month-only and year-only dates remain visibly incomplete. New local imports use “Tag unbekannt” or “Monat unbekannt” folders. Shared XMP tag lists and a repair tool with rollback copies improve Immich compatibility. Existing media are not moved automatically. Once enabled, the archive requires at least this new writer.

Date precision and limitations

0.22.0 · Date ranges for every source

Build 46 · Candidate under review, not yet published · 12 September 2026

Start and end dates are independently optional for local folders, SD cards, drives, Google Takeout, Immich and Apple Photos. Without an end date the range remains open for future imports; without a start date it includes all recordings through the entire end day.

• Shared controls and persistent settings for each source.
• Previews, direct actions, combined runs, existing schedules and associated drive reviews use the same range.
• Changing the range clears outdated previews and Immich selections. Pending drafts block affected starts.
• Immich checks date boundaries in search and again before import. Live Photos retain their associated video components.

Update note: Local settings use schema 6, which older apps cannot load. Existing sources and Apple Photos ranges are retained. Archive format and source files remain unchanged. This does not add schedules for Immich or Takeout.

Set date ranges and understand date sources

0.21.0 · Review old drives and archive selected folders

Build 45 · Candidate under verification, not yet released · 12 September 2026

Old drives can be examined manually in the shared workspace. Completed folders show their scope and direct archive actions. Reviewing a drive does not register it as an automatic source.

• Direct actions: archive a folder, all completed folders or the checked selection. The optional “What's missing from the archive?” comparison stays read-only. Actual imports recheck the exact selected files with the existing import engine.
• Real previews: first/middle/last samples, repeatable random trios, twelve-picture pages, enlargement and separate Finder actions. Preview changes do not change import scope.
• Explicit ZIP extraction: choose a separate destination, review the new folder path and start extraction. Complete output becomes independently reviewable and importable. Original ZIPs remain unchanged, existing files are never overwritten, and incomplete extraction is not reported as success.
• Long operations: bounded saved review state, verified continuation, pause and stop. Work, preview readers, ejection and updates share the existing reservations. The menu opens the active review and supports its controls.
• Actionable results: successful and pending files stay visible together. Retrying pending files uses their recorded identities; blocked metadata errors now retain the file identity needed for this action. Support reports include categorized review and extraction outcomes without private filenames or paths.

Limits: Local drives and ordinary folders only. Photo libraries, system areas, hidden files, links and unsupported containers remain explicitly unexamined. Search and extraction have size, count and memory bounds; ZIP extraction also has an active processing time limit. Existing archive-format and metadata contracts are unchanged.

Drive review, previews and ZIP extraction · Eject drives · Export a support package

0.20.0 · Archive directly in one shared workspace

Build 45 · Alpha released · 12 September 2026

The archive destination, sources and current work stay together. One click archives a configured local source or Apple Photos; the combined start processes connected local sources followed by Apple Photos. Select and check Immich uploads separately. The download and update feed offer 0.20.0. Features prepared in the internal 0.19.0 milestone become publicly available for the first time with this release.

• One workspace: The shared archive destination is highlighted in blue and shows full drive and folder names. Source settings, previews and results expand directly at each source. “Archive & maintenance” stays in the same workspace.
• Manual quick starts: “Archive” starts one local source or Apple Photos within its configured scope. “Archive all connected” processes local sources, including Takeout, followed by Apple Photos in sequence. Missing sources remain visible with a reason. Immich still requires a deliberate selection.
• Direct menu bar actions: Shared destination, up to three eligible sources and a combined start. Immich selection and unresolved results open the right place in the main window. Active work shows the source actually being processed, its trigger and supported controls.
• Automation below the archive destination: The next sync or waiting reason and “Pause” and “Resume” appear at the shared destination, including in the menu. Pausing automation affects future starts. Cancelling ends current work and preserves the schedule.
• Eject sources and the archive destination: Eligible external volumes can be disconnected directly after archive work finishes. Settings stay saved; sources on the same volume are disconnected too. Paused work and updates prevent ejection. Disconnection is never forced.
• Results with a next step: Confirmed successes and unresolved items remain visible together. Rechecking, settings and deliberate support package export are accessible from the relevant context. “Recent results” covers the current app session, without persistent history.
• Confirm the Photos date range: “Apply date range” saves the selection; “Discard changes” or closing keeps the saved range. While a changed draft remains open, Photos starts, combined runs including Photos and the Photos schedule wait. This does not block other individual local or Immich actions.

Also included since public 0.18.2: Connect each Immich 3.2.0 account separately through HTTPS, select its uploads and check unchanged originals, Live Photo partners and available source XMP before archiving. External library files are excluded. An archive library you have already set up can be explicitly refreshed after a successful import; TrueArchive does not set up the server or drive mounts. Metadata coverage remains partial, and Immich albums and sharing are not migrated.

Also included: safely interrupt keyword analysis for a requested import, deliberately export a support package, preserve capture days and time-zone information, and reduce repeated searching with a bounded lookup in memory. Existing archive files stay in place; there is no persistent media catalogue. Details of the functions developed for 0.19.0.

Update note: Saved sources, date ranges, schedules and keyword options are preserved. The new local settings format requires at least 0.19.0; older apps cannot open it. The interface does not move existing archive files. No new archive setup or full inventory is required.

Limits: macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon; this alpha is still not notarized by Apple. Apple Photos and Immich support cancellation but no operation pause. Real cloud imports and complete metadata exchange with other photo applications require separate validation. A connected source or a successful partial import does not prove a complete library.

New workspace · Menu bar actions · Eject drives · Set up Immich · Save a support package

0.19.0 · Internal milestone: archive selected Immich uploads

Build 43 · Not released separately; included in 0.20.0 · 11 September 2026

This internally verified milestone added Immich as a separate source and made archiving easier while automatic keyword analysis was active. It was not released separately. The following features are included in public release 0.20.0; this 0.19.0 entry records their development stage.

• Immich per account: Connect to Immich 3.2.0 through HTTPS with a separate API key stored in the macOS keychain. Select uploads first, then check and deliberately archive them. Other accounts and external library files are excluded. Immich needs its own selection; “Archive all sources” and schedules do not import it automatically.
• Verified imports: Selected originals are temporarily downloaded to the Mac for the preview, with at most two downloads at once. Archive status is determined afterwards. A SHA-1 comparison, SHA-256 in the archive and renewed account, selection and destination checks protect the import. Cancellation stops transfers safely; a new attempt starts the download again.
• Originals and metadata: Unchanged originals, Live Photo partners and available exportable XMP data are included. API metadata and provenance contribute to the shared XMP file; unknown existing fields are preserved or lead to a conflict when information contradicts. Metadata coverage remains partial. Albums and sharing settings are not migrated, and uploads are not deleted.
• View the archive in Immich: An existing external archive library can be explicitly refreshed after a successful import. This requires a separate administrator key and confirmation of additional year paths. The scan then runs in Immich; requesting it does not confirm completion.
• Archive during keyword analysis: An available archive action can be requested while analysis is running or paused. “Interrupt and archive” waits for analysis to stop safely and then starts the requested action. A changed selection, source or archive destination prevents it from starting.
• Support packages for troubleshooting: The Help menu’s diagnostic report and local and Apple Photos import reports offer a deliberate ZIP export. Limited local states and error categories help investigate problems. The package contains no media, filenames, paths or credentials. You review and share it yourself.
• Preserve the capture day: EXIF and supported QuickTime dates retain their calendar day and available time information. A missing time-zone offset is not replaced with this Mac’s time zone. Existing archive files are not rearranged.
• Less repeated searching: A limited in-memory lookup matches already checked files by origin and checksum. Large inventories fall back to the existing search. Content and XMP verification remain in place; no persistent media catalogue is created.

Limits and update note: For archives created with the current app and directly used existing folders, duplicate searches cover the relevant date folders. Identical originals elsewhere or with a different capture date may be copied again. Older TrueArchive layouts are checked throughout their subfolders; additional readiness and recovery checks may read other archive areas. Settings saved in the new format require at least 0.19.0; older apps cannot open them. Real account imports, iMac runtime and metadata display in Immich need separate confirmation.

Set up Immich step by step · Interrupt keyword analysis to archive · Metadata and capture dates · Save a support package

0.18.2 · Preserve additional Apple Photos files

Build 41 · Alpha release · 11 September 2026

726 app tests with ten intended skips and no failures, independent code review, the universal package, native menu runtime check and all nine fixed performance phases passed. The app is available for Intel and Apple Silicon.

PhotoKit resource role 16 is copied as an additional unchanged file with a SHA-256 checksum and its own XMP sidecar. Its publicly unnamed meaning is not interpreted as an original or editing recipe. Originals, finished edits and required Live Photo components remain mandatory.

Repeat syncs recognize previously archived items. Changed or no longer reported additional data is never silently replaced or removed; the item stays open with a notice. Other unknown roles and actual transfer errors remain visible. A cancelled or failed transfer publishes no partial item.

Archive the same date range again after updating: Choose “Archive all items” in Apple Photos again. No new archive setup or registration of the entire collection is needed. Actual delivery of the affected role 16 files still needs to be confirmed during the next iMac sync.

Version protection: Once an import involving role 16 has been started, every Mac using the archive needs at least 0.18.2. Version protection is enabled before the first transfer and remains in place even after an error. Existing files and their locations are preserved; older apps reject the extended format.

Additional files and how to retry · Install an app update

0.18.1 · Apple Photos fix

Build 40 · Alpha · 11 September 2026

Individual unsupported items no longer block subsequent Apple Photos sync batches. Affected items remain visible with their errors and are still considered incomplete. Unknown PhotoKit resource role 16 is not treated as supported.

After updating, choose “Archive all items” for Apple Photos again, keeping your previous date range. Previously archived items are recognized. Scheduled syncs also reach later batches; open items are checked again on a new attempt. Actual transfer, write or identity errors still stop the sync.

A separate fix based on 0.18.0, without the Immich integration. Archive format and saved settings are unchanged. For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon; not notarized. Apple Photos handbook · Install the update · Download

0.18.0 · Keyword defaults and source settings

Build 39 · Alpha · 11 September 2026

Public alpha download and warning · Test feedback

Available as a download and through the built-in update check. On September 11, the update channel was corrected after it had still been offering 0.10.0. How to update the app.

App settings provide defaults for photo analysis, video analysis and keyword language. New sources copy them; later changes belong in each source’s gear dialog. Existing sources retain their previous settings. Progress and controls remain with the archive and in the menu bar.

New and previously archived files are matched through XMP origins. Language requests from multiple enabled sources are combined. Existing keywords are retained. Settings remain disabled during archive work; cancel safely before changing them. Older local connections may need to be connected once.

Local configuration requires at least 0.18.0 after updating. Archive files and format remain compatible. Configure keywords.

Also included since public 0.16.0: Use an existing picture folder immediately, without registering the entire collection. Add whole cards and drives, see an unavailable archive destination in the sidebar, and remove sources through a clearly marked red action. General Google Takeout limitations now belong in the handbook instead of repeated notices for every photo.

Imports compare the relevant destination folders. Files elsewhere in an existing collection may be copied again. For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Ad hoc signed, not notarized; real Intel runtime and exchange with other photo tools still require further testing. Install or update manually · Use an existing archive

0.17.3 · Destination status and source removal

Build 38 · local alpha candidate · 11 September 2026

Not distributed separately; these changes are included in 0.18.0.

The archive destination shows its connection status directly on its sidebar icon. An orange exclamation mark makes an unavailable destination visible. Source removal is highlighted in red; confirmation and protection of active operations remain in place.

0.17.2 · Choose entire cards and drives

Build 37 · local alpha candidate · 11 September 2026

Not distributed separately; these changes are included in 0.18.0.

The SD-card and external-drive picker opens directly at the drive list. Choose the entire device or individual folders on it. An already configured subfolder and its whole card still cannot be added as overlapping sources.

Add cards and drives

0.17.1 · Use existing folders directly

Build 36 · local alpha candidate · 11 September 2026

Not distributed separately; these changes are included in 0.18.0.

• Choose an existing picture folder and use it directly as the archive destination. Mandatory collection registration is removed.
• Imports check the relevant destination folders. Existing media and edits stay protected; a full duplicate comparison remains a separate optional check.
• Registration started by 0.17.0 stops after any provable pending write is safely resolved. Previously added XMP files are preserved.

No additional persistent cache. Files outside the relevant destination folders may be copied again, including after being moved or having their capture date changed.

Directly used existing folders require 0.17.1 or later on every Mac. Older versions reject the additional format capability.

Use an existing folder and understand comparison limits

0.17.0 · Existing photo collections

Build 35 · local alpha candidate · September 11, 2026

Historical local candidate, not distributed separately. Collection registration was replaced by direct folder use in 0.17.1; the current package is 0.18.1.

• Choose an existing photo collection directly as your archive destination. “Register existing files” checks existing media, preserves XMP metadata and creates missing sidecars. Photos and videos stay in place.
• Progress, pause and resume in the destination view and menu bar. Interrupted registration can be resumed; new imports wait for registration to finish.
• Subsequent imports recognize existing media. New files are organized by year, month and day. Additional documents are preserved.
• Google Takeout: After checking again, general limitations no longer create a notice for every photo. Specific missing or conflicting metadata remains in the report.

Register existing files · Recurring Google exports

The extended archive format requires TrueArchive 0.17.0 or later. Completed registration does not replace a second backup. Google downloads and extraction remain manual steps.

0.16.0 · German and English keywords

Build 34 · Alpha · 10 September 2026

• Choose a language: Automatic photo and video keywords in German, English or both. Local on your Mac, with no online translation.
• Supplement existing analyses: A new language selection processes previously analysed archive files again. Existing keywords stay intact.
• Clear status: Enabling analysis queues it immediately. Waiting, progress and pause appear next to the switches.
• Since the last public package: Year/month/day folders, separately enabled video analysis every ten seconds with XMP time markers, and a simpler destination page without a folder migration control.

The selection applies only to automatic words. Imported metadata and original files are retained. Existing English settings stay English until you choose another language. Reanalysis updates TrueArchive’s own video time markers in the selected language.

For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Manual alpha, ad hoc signed and not notarized; the shared automatic update feed stays unchanged. Real Intel runtime, further video formats and exchange with other photo tools have not yet been fully verified. Language selection and analysis in the handbook · Installation

0.15.1 · Simpler archive page

Build 33 · Local development version · Not released separately

The folder layout review and migration controls are removed from the regular destination page. New archives automatically use year, month and day. The handbook explains this fixed layout. Only an already interrupted migration still offers verified recovery.

• First available test package: Includes the changes from development versions 0.14.0 and 0.15.0: fixed monthly folders for new archives and separately enabled video tagging.
• Local video analysis: Apple Vision analyses one frame every ten seconds from the start. English keywords and actual sample timestamps are stored in XMP. Timestamps have no dedicated viewer yet.
• Simpler destination page: No layout selection or migration controls during normal use.

For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Manual alpha package, ad hoc signed and not notarized by Apple. Installation and macOS approval. The shared automatic update feed remains unchanged. Real Intel runtime, further video formats and external tool compatibility have not been fully validated.

Folder layout in the handbook

0.15.0 · Video keywords

Build 32 · Local alpha candidate · Not yet released

• Separate switch for local video tagging, off by default and independent of pictures.
• Apple Vision analyses one reduced frame every ten seconds, starting at the beginning. English terms are combined across the video.
• Actual finding times are stored as point markers in the shared XMP. No marker view or seek function.
• Sequential processing with progress and controlled interruption. Completed results remain; unchanged videos already analysed are skipped.

Original files and existing metadata remain intact. The local tagging handbook explains limits, restart behaviour and tool compatibility. Public download and automatic update feed remain unchanged. Real Intel runtime and compatibility with external programs are checked separately.

0.14.0 · Monthly archive folders

Build 31 · Local alpha candidate · Not yet released

• New archives: Fixed layout under YYYY/YYYY-MM/YYYY-MM-DD, such as 2026/2026-09/2026-09-10. Only months and days containing files are created; folder names remain complete. Unbekannt stays directly in the chosen archive, without an extra media folder.
• Explicitly migrate existing day folders: “Review folder structure…” creates a preview first. Only “Switch to monthly folders” followed by confirmation starts the migration. Opening the archive and later imports do not change its existing layout.
• Keep pairs and relationships: Archive media move together with their XMP files; identities, origins, variants and metadata are preserved. Nothing is copied from the sources again. After an interruption, “Resume migration” checks the existing evidence before continuing.
• Very old media archives: The layout under Medien/YYYY/YYYY-MM-DD remains supported. This monthly migration is not offered for it.

Before migration, make an independent backup of the archive including XMP and pause other programs that write to it. Afterwards, digiKam and other existing libraries may need a new scan or their folder links updated. Older TrueArchive versions cannot read or continue using the monthly layout; use at least 0.14.0 on all Macs working with it.

This entry describes the local candidate, not a published release or completed release validation. The public package remains 0.13.1; the shared automatic update feed stays unchanged. It does not establish migration of personal archives or real Intel/Nitro/digiKam acceptance testing.

Steps, recovery and limitations · Test feedback

0.13.1 · Source controls and Finder

Build 30 · Alpha · 10 September 2026

• “Open archive in Finder” is now a small folder icon beside the destination. The separate bottom entry has been removed. Local sources also have a folder icon to open their source folder, grey when disconnected. Source and destination folder icons align in one column.
• A clock beside each source opens its schedule directly. It is grey when no schedule is configured. Tooltips distinguish active and paused schedules and those waiting for a connection.
• Apple Photos uses an Apple symbol and Google Photos a G, also in the source picker.
• Google metadata notices explain that additional details are not yet supported while available capture time, GPS and description can still be imported. Keeping the Takeout export remains important.
• The handbook explains requesting Takeout exports, all ZIP parts, extraction, JSON metadata and subsequent exports. Google Takeout import remains manual.

Archive format and existing schedules stay unchanged. For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Manual alpha package, ad hoc signed and not notarized by Apple. Finish archive work and replace the app as described in the handbook. The shared automatic update feed remains unchanged. Runtime testing on Intel remains pending.

0.13.0 · Google Photos from Takeout

Build 26 · Alpha · 10 September 2026

• New manual source: “Google Photos (Takeout)” reads an extracted export folder or several extracted parts under a common parent folder. Preview, single-source sync and “Archive all sources” use the same metadata checks. No Google sign-in, automatic download or schedule.
• Supported metadata in the shared XMP: Unambiguously matching JSON files supply supported capture times, GPS data and descriptions. Proven album titles become keywords. Media bytes stay unchanged; JSON files are not additionally archived. Export quality and cloud completeness remain explicitly unconfirmed.
• Handle unresolved cases explicitly: Missing JSON metadata initially blocks import. A separate option permits only that missing coverage, with a permanent record in the archive. Damaged, invalid or ambiguous matches remain blocked.
• Later exports from the same source: “Choose a new export folder …” retains the saved source identifier and checks the folder before switching. Other sources, their previews and their selections are preserved.

Local settings use schema 3. Sources and Photos date ranges from schemas 1 and 2 are preserved; older apps intentionally cannot load the new settings schema.

The local import and source controls have been tested with synthetic data; a small real Google export containing six JPEGs was also imported and checked again. Other real-world formats, viewing results in digiKam and runtime testing on Intel remain pending. For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Manual alpha package, ad hoc signed and not notarized by Apple. Finish archive work and replace the app as described in the handbook. The shared automatic update feed remains unchanged.

Takeout import and limitations · Test feedback

0.12.1 · Clearer language and a compact website

10 September 2026 · Build 25 · Alpha

• The last all-source sync summary now changes immediately between German and English, without running the sync again.
• The source switch is now called “Archiving schedule”. Existing schedules are unchanged.
• The compact DE / ENG language switch sits at the bottom of each page. The hidden alpha download is on the final “e” in the wordmark.
• The story page explains year and day folders and searching by person after face indexing and name assignment in digiKam.

Still a manual alpha package for macOS 15+, for Intel and Apple Silicon. Not yet in the shared automatic update channel; without Apple notarization. No archive format change.

Language settings · Test feedback

0.12.0 · German and English

10 September 2026 · Build 24 · Alpha

• Choose the app language: System, Deutsch and English are available in General settings. System mode follows your preferred languages and uses English if none of them is supported.
• Website and handbook in English: All five pages are available in both languages. The language selection keeps the current page and chapter; direct language links also work without JavaScript.
• Your data stays intact: The display does not change source names, file paths, media or archived metadata.

Also includes the improvements documented below from internal builds 0.10.1 through 0.11.1: a more stable menu bar animation, reports on each source page, setup directly in the app, and archive and settings actions next to each source.

Verified: 533 synthetic tests with five intentional skips and zero failures, plus language and rendered-view checks in both languages. All nine performance phases pass in German and English against the unchanged reference. The native menu bar stays responsive in a 124-second endurance test, with peak memory of about 91 MiB.

macOS 15+, universal package for Intel and Apple Silicon. Not notarized by Apple. Real Intel/iCloud/Nitro/digiKam and first-install checks remain pending. Native system and update dialogs follow macOS; existing messages initially keep their language. This alpha is distributed manually; the shared automatic update channel stays unchanged.

SHA-256 checksum · Set the language · Test feedback

0.11.1 · Clear actions for every source

Build 23 · Internal development build · Included in 0.12.0

• Recognizable archive actions: An arrow into a drive identifies importing for individual sources and the full sync.
• Settings next to the source: The gear opens that source’s configuration and schedule. App settings at the bottom are explicitly labelled as such.
• Remove a specific source: “Remove from source list …” appears at the top of the source page and in its context menu. The confirmation explains that files are preserved. Other sources and their previews remain.
• Relevant notices: Source errors appear only on the affected source page and as a warning mark in its row. Shared archive issues remain visible.
• Native help: Round macOS help buttons remain keyboard accessible and open the relevant handbook section.

Local acceptance checks: 516 tests with five intentional skips and zero failures; native views, the source gear, cancelling removal and help focus were checked in the built app. These checks describe the development state at that time; these changes ship with 0.12.0.

0.11.0 · Start directly in the app

Build 22 · Internal development build · Included in 0.12.0

• One interface from the start: Sources and the archive are configured on their normal pages. Short hints show missing connections. Once a source is connected and the archive has been checked, setup is automatically saved as complete. The separate wizard and completion button are removed; completion itself does not start an import.
• Shorter pages: Sources have a visibly labelled name field. Settings focus on the source, its schedule and “Remove source”. Explanations of scope are under “?” or “Details”.
• Photos permission on the Apple Photos page: “Check access” reads only the permission status. “Allow Photos access” explicitly requests permission. Full access shows “Connected”; otherwise, the page shows relevant help and, when needed, the route to System Settings. These actions do not inventory the library or start an import.
• Clear schedule controls: “Archive automatically” belongs to each source’s settings. “Run schedules” is centrally located under “TrueArchive → Settings → General” once schedules exist. Turning it off prevents further starts and lets the running sync finish.
• Turn keywords on and off directly: The switch is on the archive page. Turning it off is remembered and also stops running local tagging at a safe stopping point. Existing keywords remain.
• Diagnostic report in the Help menu: The technical report is accessible independently of setup and can be deliberately copied after your own review.

No archive format change. Existing sources, archive connections and deliberately chosen settings remain usable. Synthetic functional tests and checks of rendered views are complete. This internal build had no separate public download and is now included in 0.12.0.

Set up directly · Photos access · Schedules · Local keywords

0.10.3 · Control sources directly

Build 21 · Internal development build · Included in 0.12.0

• Specific help: Issue notices in the main window name the affected source and open its report. The prompt to open an app that is already open has been removed.
• Compact source rows: Connection status, “Archive now” and, for suitable external volumes, “Safely eject” appear as icons next to the source. Tooltips explain their meaning; progress appears during work.
• Start only this source: The small archive arrow checks the clicked source again and imports new or changed content. Its open preview is replaced. Other sources and schedules are not started; valid previews for other sources remain.
• Reports remain after disconnecting: If a source becomes unreachable or is safely ejected, its last report remains readable during this session. Old import selections become invalid.

No archive format change. Apple Photos status shows the access permission; individual iCloud originals are only requested when archiving.

Work with sources · Disconnect a source drive · Test feedback

0.10.2 · Reports on source pages

Build 20 · Internal development build · Included in 0.12.0

• Results on the source page: Local folders and Apple Photos show their last sync on the relevant source page. The difficult-to-read result popover is removed. A short status remains on the left.
• Readable reports: System colours for light and dark appearance, wrapping messages, and expandable unresolved entries and notices. Added origins and Nitro variants remain included in the counts.
• Correct association: Switching pages preserves reports; a new attempt replaces that source’s result. After a destination change, reports for the old archive do not appear as results for the new destination.

Reports in the handbook · Test feedback

0.10.1 · A more stable menu bar

Build 19 · Internal development build · Included in 0.12.0

• Fixed a freeze during connection: In 0.10.0, menu bar icon animation could freeze the interface and use a large amount of memory. An independent, bounded animation timer replaces the affected rendering process. Arrows move during active work; pause, idle and issue states stay still.
• One shared archive destination: The regular destination block is removed from source pages. The destination appears in the left navigation and on the archive page. Specific destination issues remain accessible as notices.
• Sleeping drives: Displaying a saved archive name and restoring an open folder selection no longer triggers an additional filesystem check to determine the folder type.
• Native runtime check: An isolated test checks the real menu bar icon, responsiveness, memory and transitions between activity, pause and idle. An external watchdog ends only the test process if it freezes or uses too much memory.

No new setup or archive migration compared with 0.10.0. For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Still not notarized; real Intel/iCloud and Nitro/digiKam acceptance remain separately pending.

Sources and shared destination · Test feedback

0.10.0 · Duplicates and Nitro variants

9 September 2026 · Build 18 · Alpha

• Identical media from multiple sources: After a full byte check and compatibility check of the metadata, the same archive file is reused. Its XMP contains all origins. This also applies to local pictures and matching resources from Apple Photos.
• Keep Nitro edits: Different readable recipes automatically get their own media/XMP pairs when the remaining metadata is compatible. Identical recipes are recognized. Other conflicts can be imported separately in the preview with “Keep both versions” or left unresolved for later.
• Check existing duplicates: The archive page offers an explicitly started read-only scan with progress, pause and cancellation. It distinguishes identical copies, edit variants and hard links; it does not delete or merge archive files.
• Help next to the feature: “?” buttons open the relevant handbook chapter. The Help menu also links to the handbook and release notes. Operating instructions and version history are maintained with each release.
• Activity in the menu bar: Small rotating arrows show ongoing work. Idle, pause and issue states stay still; the macOS “Reduce Motion” setting is respected. The status window has a clear cancel button for a full sync.
• Protecting performance: Fixed synthetic performance tests compare importing, repeat runs and shared origins against a matching reference for the machine. Runtime and memory limits will be part of release checks going forward.

A confirmed new origin counts as a metadata change; a separate variant counts as a new file. The amount of copying avoided does not measure freed disk space. Sources remain unchanged.

With the additional origin checks, Photos sync is slower in developer testing than in 0.9. The new performance suite establishes a reference for the current functionality; further optimization is pending.

For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Still not notarized by Apple. Actual Intel runtime checks, real iCloud imports and round-trip tests with Nitro and digiKam remain separately pending for this release. RAW/JPEG matching and searching for pictures that only look similar are not included.

Alpha package and checksum · Duplicates and edits explained · Test feedback

0.9.0 · Archive all sources

9 September 2026 · Build 17 · Alpha

• One shared start: “Archive all sources” in the sidebar first checks configured local sources in sequence, then syncs Apple Photos fully within the saved capture date range. Subfolder selections and date filters still apply.
• Results for each source: Progress and “Show Result” display what is new, updated or already present. Missing sources are skipped. Cancelling also stops all later sources; local operations can be paused and resumed.
• Safely disconnect source volumes: The eject icon next to an external source disconnects its volume once work has finished. All source folders on it are disconnected; their connections stay saved. The archive volume is protected; disconnection is not forced.

Existing schedules and their global pause remain unchanged. A second archive run or app update cannot start at the same time. Already archived files are preserved on cancellation; sources are not changed or deleted. No new setup or archive migration is needed.

For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Still not notarized by Apple. Real Intel/iCloud acceptance and disconnecting real external drives remain separately pending for this version. Apple Photos still supports cancellation but not pausing.

Download alpha · Package and checksum · Archive all sources · Disconnect a source volume · Test feedback

0.8.1 · Easier setup

9 September 2026 · Build 16 · Alpha

• Open setup steps directly: In the setup wizard, “Your Sources” and “Your Archive” on the left are clickable. “Done” becomes available once a source is connected and the archive has been checked. Your entries remain; switching does not start an import.
• The chosen folder is the archive: A shared folder picker for new and existing archives replaces the previous save dialog. Create the intended folder with “New Folder” and confirm it with “Use as archive”. No extra “Bildarchiv” subfolder is created.

Date filtering and unlimited importing from 0.8.0 remain. No new setup or archive migration is needed. Existing archives keep their layout.

For macOS 15+, Intel and Apple Silicon. Still not notarized by Apple; real Intel/iCloud acceptance remains separately pending.

Download alpha and checksum · Setup explained · Test feedback

0.8.0 · Unlimited Photos sync

9 September 2026 · Build 15 · Alpha

Apple Photos gets a direct sync without an overall item limit and an optional, persistently saved capture date range.

• Entire accessible library: “Archive all items” processes all accessible pictures and videos. Technical processing remains limited to at most 20 items per checked batch.
• Inclusive capture date range: “From” and “To” can be set together or individually; both selected calendar dates are included. With the filter active, items with no known capture date are skipped. Without a filter, there is no date restriction.
• One range for every sync: The saved capture date range applies to direct and explicitly enabled scheduled Photos syncs. Changing the range does not enable a schedule.
• Setup in three steps: Choose sources, choose an archive and finish. The earlier ten-picture trial is removed; start the first sync afterwards on the source page.

For macOS 15 or later, Intel and Apple Silicon. The alpha package is ad hoc signed and not notarized by Apple. Real runtime acceptance on Intel and complete real iCloud imports are still pending.

Download alpha · Package and checksum · Sync Apple Photos · Feedback on this version

0.7.1 · More robust Photos syncs

9 September 2026 · Build 14 · Beta

A maintenance release with consistent checks for Photos batches and clearer separation of internal responsibilities.

• Check batches before copying: One-time and scheduled Photos syncs use the same rules for size, source binding and progress. Inconsistent batches are rejected before export.
• Central management of source previews: A shared access layer checks that the preview, selection and result still match the source and archive.
• Test status separately: Rules for status, progress and storage display live in a dedicated module. The main window, menu bar and sidebar continue to use the same displays.

The interaction from 0.7.0 remains. This release does not require a new setup or archive reorganization. Sources remain unchanged; schedules are not enabled automatically.

The built-in app updater is available from 0.6.0. For macOS 15 or later, Intel and Apple Silicon. The pilot is still not notarized by Apple; real Intel/iCloud acceptance and complete native interaction checks remain separately pending for this release.

App package and checksum · Feedback on this version

0.7.0 · Keep previews, choose destinations clearly

9 September 2026 · Build 13 · Beta

Sources, the archive destination and ongoing work are easier to distinguish. You can browse the app and then continue working with your selection.

A clearer workspace

• Previews are preserved: Switching to the archive destination or another source no longer discards a checked selection. Each local source retains its own preview and selection during the current app session.
• You control navigation: Automatic syncs no longer open a different source page. A fixed status area shows ongoing work; “Go to operation” takes you straight there. Results belong to the source actually processed.
• Settings in one place: Each source has “Settings …” for its configuration and schedule. The archive destination shows connection, folder and free space first; local keywords have their own settings.
• Clear completion: After importing, the result and “Open archive” take priority. “Remove source from List …” explicitly refers to removing the connection; files are preserved.

Switch archive destinations reliably

A selected destination folder is checked before becoming the active archive. If selection fails, the app shows “Destination change still pending” and blocks further imports. It does not silently return to the previous archive, even after a restart. Select the intended destination again and check the displayed folder.

Changing the archive discards old previews. If a source’s scope changes, its preview becomes invalid. Still-valid previews for other sources remain and continue to prevent automatic imports, keyword tagging and app updates in the background.

Sync Apple Photos once

• “Sync Library”: imports the entire accessible System Photo Library, including videos, in batches of at most 20 items. Progress and results count across the entire run. Existing schedules and their pause remain unchanged.
• “Select Latest”: still creates a limited preview for an explicit selection. Before a library sync, open previews must be archived or discarded.
• The one-time sync can be cancelled and stops on an incomplete batch or an error. Already archived files are preserved; another deliberate start recognizes them. Photos and videos are not deleted from Apple Photos.

Updates and testing status

From 0.6.0, the existing app updater can obtain this release once ongoing work and open previews are finished. Coming from 0.5.0 or earlier still requires a manual installation. After launch, check the destination folder on the archive page before starting a real import.

For macOS 15 or later; the pilot is still not notarized by Apple. Intel runtime acceptance, complete native interaction checks and real imports from external drives and iCloud are still pending for this version. The accessible System Photo Library is not independent proof of all iCloud content.

Find your way around the workspace · Sync Apple Photos · App package and checksum · Feedback on this version

0.6.0 · The app keeps itself up to date

9 September 2026 · Build 12 · Beta

TrueArchive can download and install new app versions itself. Running and paused archive work takes priority.

New

• Automatic app updates: enabled by default. TrueArchive checks roughly once a day while the app is running and the Mac is awake. Installation takes place when idle, followed by a restart.
• Manual mode: automatic updates can be turned off under “TrueArchive → Settings → App updates”. Your choice stays saved.
• Check for updates yourself: through the app menu or settings. In the menu bar window, “App updates …” goes directly to the setting.
• Verified origin: The update feed and app packages are digitally signed and verified before installation.

Protecting ongoing work

• Checking, copying, paused imports, Photos export, recovery and local keyword tagging prevent updates and quitting the app.
• An unfinished setup or open import preview prevents an automatic restart. No new archive jobs start during an update.

Before updating

Changing automatic updates in the update dialog applies to future updates; it does not cancel an update already prepared.

For macOS 15 or later, as one package for Intel and Apple Silicon. The pilot is still not notarized by Apple. Intel runtime testing for this version and full interaction checks of the update interface are still pending.

Set up updates · App package and checksum · Feedback on this version

Earlier versions

Release notes on this website start with 0.6.0. Notes and packages for earlier releases are available in GitHub Releases.