Apple ads new don't-purge, don't-back-up file store in iOS 5

Apple has announced that, as part of iOS 5.0.1 beta 1, they've added something that should eliminate the problems iOS 5.0 had with purging data -- everything from Instapaper pages to flight charts.

It introduces a new way for developers to specify files that should remain on device, even in low storage situations.

Previously, developers who wanted to keep data cached on the iPhone or iPad but not have it backed up to iTunes -- because it would create a long delay for their users -- put them into temporary storage. With iCloud and iOS 5, however, Apple became much more aggressive about purging data from that temporary storage, leading to users starting apps only to find them empty and their stuff gone. This was especially vexing when on an airplane or otherwise off the data network and the content couldn't just be re-downloaded.

While Apple doesn't always seem to realize the ramifications of their changes, in this case at least they're addressing it quickly. Hopefully this gives the best of both worlds -- persistent, non-critical storage that's there when you want it but doesn't slow down or eat up storage for your backups.

Source: Apple Developer News

Rene Ritchie
Contributor

Rene Ritchie is one of the most respected Apple analysts in the business, reaching a combined audience of over 40 million readers a month. His YouTube channel, Vector, has over 90 thousand subscribers and 14 million views and his podcasts, including Debug, have been downloaded over 20 million times. He also regularly co-hosts MacBreak Weekly for the TWiT network and co-hosted CES Live! and Talk Mobile. Based in Montreal, Rene is a former director of product marketing, web developer, and graphic designer. He's authored several books and appeared on numerous television and radio segments to discuss Apple and the technology industry. When not working, he likes to cook, grapple, and spend time with his friends and family.