rmtPocketWatcher/flutter_app/UPDATE_SYSTEM.md

Update System

The rmtPocketWatcher Flutter app includes an automatic update checking system that monitors the Gitea repository for new releases.

How It Works

1. Automatic Checks: The app checks for updates every 4 hours automatically
2. Manual Checks: Users can manually check for updates using the refresh button in the title bar
3. Version Comparison: Compares current app version (from pubspec.yaml) with latest release tag
4. Platform Detection: Automatically detects the appropriate download asset for the current platform

Components

UpdateService

• Fetches releases from Gitea RSS feed: https://git.hudsonriggs.systems/LambdaBankingConglomerate/rmtPocketWatcher/releases.rss
• Parses XML/RSS format to extract release information
• Compares version numbers and generates platform-specific download URLs

UpdateProvider

• Manages update checking state and notifications
• Stores last check time and dismissed updates in SharedPreferences
• Provides reactive state for UI components

UpdateNotificationBanner

• Shows a dismissible banner when updates are available
• Displays version information and release details
• Provides direct links to download or view release page

Configuration

The system is configured to work with your Gitea repository structure:

• Repository: LambdaBankingConglomerate/rmtPocketWatcher
• RSS Feed: https://git.hudsonriggs.systems/LambdaBankingConglomerate/rmtPocketWatcher/releases.rss
• Release tags should follow semantic versioning (e.g., v1.0.0, v1.2.3)
• Expected asset naming convention:
  • Windows: rmtPocketWatcher-Windows-v{version}.zip
  • Android: rmtPocketWatcher-Android-v{version}.apk
  • Future platforms can be added with similar naming patterns

Usage

The update system is automatically initialized when the app starts:

// In HomeScreen initState
context.read<UpdateProvider>().initialize();
context.read<UpdateProvider>().startPeriodicChecks();

Users will see:

1. A notification banner when updates are available
2. An update icon in the title bar (desktop)
3. A detailed dialog with release notes and download options

Privacy & Security

• Only checks public release information
• No personal data is transmitted
• Downloads are handled by the system browser/app store
• Users control when to update (no forced updates)