Nightly Release 20241222

Nightly Release of GpgFrontend

This is an unstable nightly build of GpgFrontend.
It may contain new features or bug fixes that are under testing.
Please note that this version is less stable compared to official
releases and is intended for testing purposes only.

Why Nightly Releases?

This nightly release aims to provide users with early access to
features or fixes they urgently need. Given that official releases are
typically published at least two months apart, I understand that the
wait may be too long for some users.

Important Notes:

• Use this version at your own risk; it is not recommended for
  production environments.

v2.1.6

Release Notes (v2.1.6)

• Added support for revoking and removing Subkeys (#186).
• Added support for revoking and removing UIDs (#162).
• Enabled support for multiple Key Databases with runtime quick-switch functionality.
• Added support for exporting specific subkeys.
• Introduced EML file operations for email data; feedback for further development is welcome.
• Added environment parameter output to assist with debugging, executable with the -e parameter.
• Highlighted support for running test cases using the -t parameter, which has been available in previous versions.
• Integrated support for the VKS interface of keys.openpgp.org.
• Added support for the secp256k1 algorithm.
• Enabled automatic discovery and import of missing public keys from keys.openpgp.org during verification.
• Added support for using ed448 as a primary key algorithm.
• Introduced functionality to check public key publishing status on keys.openpgp.org (disabled by default).
• Added the ability to display release notes in the "Update" tab.
• Implemented commit hash verification for local builds, with warnings for mismatches.
• Added functionality to open text files by dragging them into the text editor.
• Enhanced UI design and interaction for a better user experience.
• Fixed various known issues to enhance stability and performance.
• Resolved Windows uninstaller issues related to character handling (#184).
• Improved the structure of the Windows portable package to make it more organized and user-friendly.
• Improved UI translations for English, Chinese (Simplified), and German; contributions for additional languages are welcome. (#183)

Full Changelog: v2.1.5...v2.1.6

Note on macOS Support

• macOS-15: Added support for macOS-15, ensuring compatibility with the latest macOS version.
• macOS-12: Due to GitHub Actions gradually discontinuing support for macos-12, binary release packages for macOS-12 are no longer provided for download. Users can build the application themselves if needed.

Note on Nightly Builds

Nightly builds are now available to provide active users with early access to new features and updates. This helps gather user feedback in advance, reducing the likelihood of critical issues in official releases. Access the nightly builds here: Nightly Builds on GitHub

v2.1.5

Release Notes (v2.1.5)

• Fixed macOS crash on startup issue (#173, #178, #181)
• Removed the minimum size restriction for the main window (#176)
• Updated Italian (it_IT) translation
• Fixed issue where module translations did not update after switching languages (#170)

New Binary Signing Key

To enhance the security and integrity of our releases, I'm introducing a new PGP key for code and binary signing. This key uses the Ed25519 algorithm, known for its strong cryptographic properties and efficiency. It will be used to verify the authenticity of future binary releases. Please ensure you import and trust this new key to verify the legitimacy of the binaries you download.

-----BEGIN PGP PUBLIC KEY BLOCK-----

mDMEZsEF1xYJKwYBBAHaRw8BAQdAPZ3dA2od9HFaiaJRr1TEEeRMfAcrBp8oqQPa
R16Icva0OHNhdHVybmVyaWMoZm9yIGNvZGUgb3IgYmluYXJ5IHNpZ24gb25seSk8
ZXJpY0Bia3R1cy5jb20+iJkEExYKAEEWIQQS9+iFjPFb7Jl1/zxco9okaEP9AwUC
ZsEF1wIbIwUJA8JmbgULCQgHAgIiAgYVCgkICwIEFgIDAQIeBwIXgAAKCRBco9ok
aEP9A3TTAQC/H61IVj6LiSQ0dvodo5VFb2jTJa8XVfb2NT3yc/+JDwD+KTm+nV73
dbaEG0FOTKu+n4rVhBpTes93Bn2GcRSbQwA=
=fWZe
-----END PGP PUBLIC KEY BLOCK-----

Fingerprint: 12F7E8858CF15BEC9975FF3C5CA3DA246843FD03

---

Full Changelog

v2.1.4...v2.1.5

v2.1.4

Release Notes (v2.1.4.3)

NOTICE: The current minor version number (3 in v2.1.4.3) has not been stabilised, during which time feedback can be given on any problems encountered. Depending on the situation, certain issues will be quickly fixed and released with a new minor version number. If the issue affects your daily use, please keep checking this page and download the latest version.

• Bug Fixes: Resolved various reported issues, including interface display problems and AppImage crashes (#166, #165, #151).
• Key Search Enhancement: The keyword search now includes all UIDs of a key (#164).
• Key Details Access: Double-clicking a key in the key list will open its details (#163).
• Customizable Key List Columns: Users can now adjust the types of columns in the key list (#152).
• Key Generation: Added support for generating subkeys with Elgamal, X448 and ED448 algorithms. The primary key also supports more algorithm options, all mentioned depending on the GnuPG version. (#154)
• Flatpak Dark Mode Support: Flatpak now supports both manual and automatic dark mode (automatic mode may not work in all cases).
• PaperKey Integration: Integrated the PaperKey functionality as a module, allowing export of a printable and storable key format. (BETA)
• Memory Safety: Adopted the mimalloc library with the highest security mode on Windows and Linux platforms. This includes various security measures to prevent heap memory usage issues and related attacks. (Removed by v2.1.4.3)
• Pinentry Modularization: The integrated Pinentry has been modularized and moved to the module repository.
• Module System: Continued to enhance the module system by separating module code from application code and placing it in a new repository.
• Qt6 Version Updates: All Qt6 release versions are now using Qt 6.7.2.
• macOS 14 (M1) Support: Provided build versions for macOS 14, fully built on the M1 platform. This means that eligible Mac users no longer need to install Rosetta. As a trade-off and considering the end of its maintenance period, builds for macOS 11 will no longer be provided.

NOTE: The Qt5 version of GpgFrontend no longer comes with modules, only the application ontology is included. Therefore, the Qt6 version is recommended.

Full Changelog: v2.1.3...v2.1.4

v2.1.3

What's New

New Application Icon

I've introduced a sleek, modern design for the application icon.

For Users

• Added Qt5 Version of AppImage: Due to the unavailability of Qt6 on Ubuntu 20.04, I've introduced a Qt5 version of the AppImage to ensure the application remains accessible to users on this platform.
• Fixed Local Time Display: The previously inaccurate local time display has been corrected.
• Enhanced GnuPG Controller: The GnuPG Controller can now be opened without triggering a restart if no settings have been changed.
• Resolved High CPU Usage: I have addressed the issue causing high CPU usage while using the File Tab.
• Updated UI Icons: Menu buttons have been updated with more suitable icons.
• Customizable UI Themes: Users can now switch between different themes, enhancing personalization.
• Modular Updates: "Version Checking" and "GnuPG Info Gathering" have been modularized, allowing users to disable or delete these functions as desired.
• New Module Controller: A new system for managing application modules has been implemented for greater control.
• Improved Translations: Enhancements to German and Simplified Chinese translations have been made, with invitations open for further community contributions.
• Language Settings Update: English is now available in the Language Settings. For more information, see Issue #135.

For Developers

• New User Manual Repository: Access the updated manual at GpgFrontend Manual Repository.
• Enhanced Module System: The module system has become more isolated and flexible, with plugins now loaded and activated at runtime.
• Switch to Qt 6.5 LTS: I have upgraded to Qt 6.5 LTS to ensure longer support and enhanced stability.
• Flatpak Platform Update: The Flatpak container runtime "org.kde.Platform" has been upgraded to branch 6.6.

Plans & Considerations

• Ongoing Improvements: I will continue to address discovered issues and enhance the user manual to improve the user experience.
• Continued SDK Development: Development of the SDK and module system will proceed, enabling users to create their own modules.
• Function Modularization: I aim to convert more functions into modules to boost the application's stability and customizability.
• New Modules Under Consideration:
  • Matrix Functions
  • Email Functions
  • Smart Card Functions

New Project Logo

I am excited to unveil the new project logo! Designed to reflect a modern and safe approach, this logo represents the commitment to innovation and user-friendly design.

What's Changed

• Declare desktop app by @razzeee in #132
• Update manual and trademark by @saturneric in #134
• Update Translate Interface guide by @jermanuts in #141
• Jermanuts wizard links update by @jermanuts in #145
• Develop 2.1.3.1 by @saturneric in #148

New Contributors

• @razzeee made their first contribution in #132
• @jermanuts made their first contribution in #141

Full Changelog: v2.1.2...v2.1.3

v2.1.2

Next Steps

The journey to version 2.1.2 took an unexpected half year, primarily due to extensive modifications in the core architecture and some challenging setbacks. This process, while arduous, was a period of significant learning and development. The application, once scattered, has now been meticulously reassembled. As a result of these efforts, it now functions smoothly and effectively.

In light of this experience, the focus for the next 4–5 versions will be on stability and minor enhancements. My commitment is to release a new, refined version every 2-3 months, ensuring consistent improvements without overwhelming changes.

Flatpak

With great pleasure, I announce that our application is now accessible on Flathub.

What's New

For Users

• Portable Mode: Easily activate by adding a "PORTABLE.txt" file in your working directory. (Issue #125)
• File Handling: Post-decryption, ".gpg" or ".asc" file suffixes are now automatically removed. (Issue #122)
• File Selection: Experience an improved file selection process using the System File Dialog before entering the "File Browser". (Issue #121)
• Signature Validation: Receive clear guidance on creating a "Fully Valid" Signature. (Issue #120)
• Dark Mode on Windows: Enjoy the comfort of dark mode on Windows systems. (Issue #114)
• Bug Fixes: Resolved multiple issues for a smoother experience. (Issues #123, #119, #116, #104)
• Enhanced UI and Stability: Experience a more stable and user-friendly interface.
• Windows 7 Support: Continued compatibility with Windows 7 through Qt5 builds.
• Bundled Pinentry: Overcomes the absence of suitable Pinentry in the operating system.
• UTF-8 Support: Full UTF-8 encoding support for all file paths and content.
• Memory Optimization: Improved file operation efficiency by avoiding complete data loading into memory.
• Advanced Cryptography: Support for a broader range of algorithms and combinations in Key/Subkey Generation.
• Informative GnuPG Tab: Added detailed information for enhanced understanding.

For Developers/Translators

• Modular System: Paving the way for future plugin development.
• Simplified Dependencies: Removal of third-party dependencies like boost, libconfig++, icu, gettext, and nlohmann::json for streamlined builds.
• Translation System: Transition to Qt Linguist, moving away from gettext.
• Enhanced Translations: A significant reduction in machine-generated translations, offering higher quality alternatives.
• Optimized Build Process: Reduction of unnecessary headers accelerates the building process.

What's Changed

• Develop 2.1.2.1 by @saturneric in #126
• Develop 2.1.2.2 by @saturneric in #127
• Develop 2.1.2.3 by @saturneric in #128
• Develop 2.1.2.4 by @saturneric in #129
• Develop 2.1.2.5 by @saturneric in #130
• Develop 2.1.2.6 by @saturneric in #131

Full Changelog: v2.1.1...v2.1.2

v2.1.1

Critical Notice

The previous hostname "gpgfrontend.pub" has expired and is no longer under my control. I've moved all websites, manuals, and documents to "gpgfrontend.bktus.com". Please note that all URLs within the documentation and source code have been updated accordingly.

What's New

• Transitioned to Qt6 and OpenSSL 3 in its entirety (Please note the updated system requirements: Ubuntu 20.04+, macOS 11+, Windows 10+). #101
• Launched the GnuPG Control Board feature for enhanced control. #78
• Introduced the option to designate keys as Favorites for quick access. #88
• Amplified the capabilities for key search and filtering for improved usability. #88
• Enabled opening of files using the system's default application. #100
• Augmented application reliability by facilitating recovery of unsaved edits after a crash.
• Added the feature to purge Logs and Data Objects, contributing to a cleaner system environment.
• Remarkably enhanced loading speed for an optimal user experience.
• Resolved numerous issues and refined the user interface for an improved experience.
• Undertook stability improvements to minimize application crashes.

Important Notes

System Requirements Clarification: My strategy is to extend support to the most prevalent versions across various platforms. Unmaintained or obsolete platform versions will gradually be excluded from my support commitment. This approach encourages users to operate this application in a secure, updated environment. Nonetheless, I provide the ability to tweak certain build options (usually without altering the source code) to ensure compatibility with older platforms.

Please be aware: Starting from this version, I will not be bundling .deb packages with binary releases due to download limitations and the significant time investment required for packaging. However, you still have the option to compile and package your own .deb.

Enhanced Compatibility with macOS Apple Silicon: This update has been meticulously optimized to fully support macOS's M1/M2 chips. I have personally verified the performance and functionality on actual hardware. Consequently, the "x86_64" identifier will no longer appear in the name of macOS binary releases.

What's Changed

• Develop 2.1.1.1 by @saturneric in #95
• Develop 2.1.1.2 by @saturneric in #96
• Develop 2.1.1.3 by @saturneric in #99
• Update zh_CN.po by @CDmking in #102
• Develop 2.1.1.4 by @saturneric in #106
• Develop 2.1.1.5 by @saturneric in #107
• fix: slove issues on README by @saturneric in #108
• Develop 2.1.1.6 by @saturneric in #109

New Contributors

• @CDmking made their first contribution in #102

Full Changelog: v2.1.0...v2.1.1

v2.1.0

What's New

• Use Qt6 on Windows and macOS.
• Use OpenSSL 3 on Windows.
• Can choose which GnuPG you want to use now. (Only if there is no default GnuPG)
• Calculate GnuPG executables checksum.
• Auto key import when verifying signature.
• Clear password cache at close or just do it immediately.
• Can reload or restart GnuPG components now.
• GnuPG Offline Mode.
• Fix issues and improve the UI.
• Improve stability.

NOTICE FOR MACOS USERS

For all macOS Users, if you get "gpg not installed correctly", you can see HERE and use the BETA version. This problem seems to be occurred at higher version in macOS.

What's Changed

• Develop 2.1.0.1 by @saturneric in #91
• Develop 2.1.0.2 by @saturneric in #93

Full Changelog: v2.0.10...v2.1.0

v2.0.10

Overview

In v2.0.10, you can use the ECC (both ECDH and ECDSA) algorithm to generate keys. Then, you can now freely specify the location of GPG's database storage. After that, this version fixes many minor issues, optimizes the UI, and improves the stability of the software.

Homebrew Install

For macOS users, you can just execute brew install --cask gpgfrontend to install GpgFrontend along with its dependencies now.

BSD Support

This version has been tested to compile and run properly on FreeBSD.

What's Changed

• Fixed Chinese Translation. by @huzpsb in #83
• v2.0.10 by @saturneric in #84

New Contributors

• @huzpsb made their first contribution in #83

Full Changelog: v2.0.9...v2.0.10

Note: The releases have a typo in the name for the portable version (protable vs portable). ;.>

v2.0.9

Overview

In v2.0.9, you are able to view the version and location of GnuPG being used by GpgFrontend. Also, in this version, some interactions have been improved and some issues that caused crashes have been fixed.

It is worth mentioning that a more stable multi-threaded model has been established, which greatly reduces the possibility of application crashes due to conflicts.

Support Ubuntu 22.04 Now

In terms of compatibility, this version is compatible with Ubuntu 22.04, and a CentOS version will be released in the future.

FreeBSD Version Coming...

At present, the compilation and operation problems have been solved on the FreeBSD 12 platform, but there are still some packaging and crash issues.

What's Changed

• Develop 2.0.8.1 by @saturneric in #65
• Develop 2.0.8.2 by @saturneric in #66
• Develop 2.0.8.3 by @MusingZone in #67
• Develop 2.0.8.4 by @saturneric in #68
• Develop 2.0.9.1 by @saturneric in #70

New Contributors

• @MusingZone made their first contribution in #67

Full Changelog: v2.0.8...v2.0.9