Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the current release status of BrewTinker? How can I download it?
A: BrewTinker v1.0.4 is now officially available on the Apple App Store! You can search for “BrewTinker - Brew Log” on the App Store or download directly via the Official App Store Page. Compatible with iPhone running iOS 17.0 or later.
Q: Why is there no cloud sync or user account system?
A: Coffee brewing data is personal, experimental craft data. A local-first architecture offers unmatched benefits:
- Instant Performance: Opens immediately with zero spinner wheels or network latency.
- Absolute Privacy: All logs, recipes, and notes reside solely in your on-device Core Data store.
- Perpetual Resilience: Works seamlessly in off-grid cabins or airplane mode; your data is never at risk of server sunsetting.
Q: How do I backup, migrate, and restore my data?
A: From the Log tab, you can export anytime:
- JSON Backup: Full lossless structured backup preserving recipes, timings, and time-series points, which can be re-imported anytime.
- CSV Export: Clean spreadsheet format (one row per cup) ready for Excel, Numbers, R, or Python data science pipelines.
- Plain TXT: Legible text summary for quick notes or messaging.
(Note: Inconsistent and fragile PDF export has been removed to guarantee data integrity.)
Q: Does version 1.0.4 support Bluetooth smart scales? Can I use it without hardware?
A:
- Version 1.0.4 is Pure Manual: BrewTinker v1.0.4 is laser-focused on an uncompromising, standalone manual brewing and timing workflow with zero Bluetooth accessory friction. Timers, dynamic pour recalculations, and inputs are deeply optimized.
- Hardware Roadmap: Direct BLE smart scale (live weight & derived flow rate) and thermometer integrations are planned for future updates.
Q: Where is the Settings menu?
A: To keep the primary brewing surface focused, Settings is not a bottom tab. It is conveniently placed in the top-right corner of the Home screen, housing grinder/dripper profiles, Pro status, and legal disclosures.
Q: What is the pricing model for BrewTinker Pro?
A: BrewTinker is designed with a sustainable, non-coercive monetization model:
- Core brewing, timer, logging, experiments, Brew Again diffs, and all export formats are 100% free with zero ads.
- BrewTinker Pro is an optional one-time lifetime purchase (no subscriptions) handled via Apple StoreKit, unlocking Home Screen Widgets, Shortcuts, and multiple grinder/dripper profiles.
Q: What languages and iOS versions are supported?
A:
- Requirements: iOS 17.0 or later.
- Localizations: Fully localized in English, 简体中文 (Simplified Chinese), 日本語 (Japanese), 한국어 (Korean), and Deutsch (German).
Q: How can I reach developer support?
A: Please email [email protected] for inquiries or feedback.