Kasper JadeApple Computer is developing a major update to Backup, its data loss prevention software created specifically for .Mac users, AppleInsider has learned.
According to reliable sources, Backup 3.0 will simplify backups through the addition of multiple backup plans, which are designed to secure users' most critical data, such as home folders, personal data files, and iLife content. The release will also allow users to schedule backups to any destination, and back up more than one computer to the same iDisk.
To ensure that a user's most important files are always protected, Backup 3 will ship with preset backup plans for iLife content such as iPhotos, iMovies, and iTunes music. Additional presets for personal settings and home folders will also come standard.
Users will be able to customize these presets or create new backup plans by specifying the files and folders they want to protect, then add one or more destinations and schedules for each plan. Sources say this feature will allow for daily backups of small files — like system preferences — to an iDisk, while providing an option to back up much larger files less frequently and to separate destinations.
Backup 3 will also allow for scheduling incremental backups to optical media, copying only the files that have changed since the previous backup.
Each time the software performs a backup, it will save new versions of files that have changed since the previous backup, sources said. This feature will allow users to quickly restore lost or damaged files from either the most recent backup or an older archived backup. Additionally, the new version will offer users the option to restore backups to an alternative location or to restore only those files missing from their original location.
Other features of Backup 3 reportedly include: notification of missed backups; an enhanced History panel; a single window summary of all backup plans; and QuickPicks for new application data types, such as Quicken files.
With the new version, sources say Apple has shed Backup of its brushed aluminum interface, returning it to a smooth Aqua and Platinum look. Sources say the overall layout of the application has also been simplified to present backups as 'plans.' Default plans include Home Folder, Personal Data and Settings, iLife, and Purchased Music. A fifth plan — Transfer — eases the migration of settings from previous versions of Backup to version 3.0.
Sources were unable to provide a specific date when the application would be made available, but did say it was in the latter stages of development.
Charles Martin
Christine McKee
Oliver Haslam
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32 Comments
I'm glad Apple hasn't forgotten about this app that I use at least once a week. It's already saved me once, when Virex deleted my entire mailbox. I just hope they make it faster. The current version takes several minutes for it to prepare for a backup, even if only a few files have been modified.
wow, from the description, this sounds like an excellent alternative to retrospect desktop... with an interface that's a thousand times better (even though i haven't seen any screenshots, it couldn't be any worse).
but here's by biggest question: will they finally allow burning cd's via backup without a live .mac connection to prove authenticity? that's always struck me as dumb.
Unless it also backs up my applications I won't use it. SuperDuper suits me just fine for all my back up needs.
will be Tiger-only, powered by spotlight .... COOL!
but here's by biggest question: will they finally allow burning cd's via backup without a live .mac connection to prove authenticity? that's always struck me as dumb.
This is exactly what people are missing about the .Mac model. Instead of Apple charging for each individual application (because they do need to recover costs), they offer a single annual "package" called .Mac that includes all kinds of well-integrated tools and services, including Backup CD burning. It's a brilliant model.