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Auto-Updates

How C3 keeps the backend and mobile app up to date.

Overview

C3 has two components that receive updates: the backend server running on your computer and the mobile app on your phone. Each has its own update mechanism.

  • Backend: Checks for updates periodically and downloads them in the background
  • Mobile App: Updates automatically via over-the-air (OTA) updates or through your app store

Backend Updates

The C3 backend periodically checks for new versions and downloads the update in the background. When you restart the backend, the new version is applied.

How It Works

C3 checks for updates based on how you installed it:

  • npm installation: Checks the npm registry for newer versions
  • Binary installation: Checks GitHub releases for newer versions

Update Check Interval

By default, C3 checks for updates every 60 minutes. You can customize this interval:

# Check every 2 hours (120 minutes)
ccc --auto-update-check-interval 120

Disabling Auto-Update Checks

If you prefer to check for updates manually, you can disable automatic checking:

ccc --no-auto-update

Manual Updates

When you're ready to update, use the appropriate command based on your installation method:

npm Installation

npm install -g @naarang/ccc@latest

Standalone Binary (Beta)

If you installed via the standalone binary, re-run the installation script to download the latest version:

macOS / Linux
curl -fsSL https://getc3.app/install.sh | bash
Windows (PowerShell)
irm https://getc3.app/install.ps1 | iex

Update Notifications

When an update is available, C3 displays a notification at startup with the new version number. The mobile app also shows when your backend needs updating.

Mobile App Updates

The C3 mobile app uses two update mechanisms to ensure you always have the latest features and fixes.

Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates

For most updates, C3 uses Expo's OTA update system. These updates:

  • Download automatically in the background
  • Installs with a seamless restart
  • Don't require visiting the app store
  • Happen seamlessly without user interaction

When an OTA update is downloading, you'll see a brief loading indicator. The app will then restart with the new version.

App Store Updates

Some updates require a full app store release (e.g., native code changes). When this happens:

  • C3 checks if an app store update is available
  • You'll be prompted to update through the App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android)

Automatic Checking

The mobile app automatically checks for updates when you open it and when you return to the app after switching away. No configuration needed.

Checking Versions

Backend Version

Check your current backend version from the terminal:

ccc --version

Mobile App Version

In the mobile app, go to Settings to see the app version at the bottom of the screen.

Backend Version from Mobile App

The mobile app displays the backend version for each server profile. To check or refresh:

  1. Open Settings in the mobile app
  2. Find the server profile under Server Profiles
  3. The backend version is shown on the profile card
  4. Tap the refresh icon to check for backend updates

If a newer backend version is available, you'll see a notification with instructions to update.

Version Caching

The mobile app caches the backend version for each profile. The version is automatically refreshed when you open the app and can be manually refreshed from the Settings screen.

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