Updates

The Direct build updates itself

The Direct (Developer ID) build has a built-in updater. It checks quietly for a new version when the app launches, and again periodically while it's running. When an update is available it offers it; you decide when to install. Nothing nags, and a failed check (no network, say) passes silently rather than interrupting you.

To check on demand, choose Check for Updates… from the app menu.

Updates are delivered over an authenticated, signed channel: Ringmaster fetches the update feed as your licensed account, downloads are verified against a built-in signing key before anything is installed, and the download links themselves are short-lived. In practice this is invisible (you click update and it updates), but it means an update can't be spoofed or served to an unlicensed copy.

The App Store build updates through the App Store

The Mac App Store build doesn't include the built-in updater, because the App Store handles updates itself. You'll get new versions the usual way, through the App Store's Updates tab (or automatically, if you have that turned on). There's no Check for Updates… item in this build.

Which build do I have?

If the app menu has a Check for Updates… item, you're on the Direct build. If it doesn't, you installed from the App Store. Both are the same application; they only differ in how they're delivered and updated. See Installation & licensing.