Updates and restarts

Reload: a new build, programs still running

After you install a new build (nothing is downloaded):

alto reload

The server and running sessions move onto the build installed now, in place, their programs still running: idle sessions at once, working ones once they go idle.

alto reload --dry-run   # only say what would happen
alto reload --now       # don't wait for working sessions
alto reload --restart   # also restart sessions that can't move

Sessions that can’t move (on Windows, ones started before they could) are listed as needing a restart. --restart ends each one’s program and starts it again in its folder, in its place, and an agent picks up its conversation.

A session started by an older Alto keeps working with a newer app and server: the protocol is versioned, and each side speaks the older of the two. Its pane shows a note, Started by an older Alto, since fixes to sessions only reach new tabs.

Restart: start over

alto restart      # asks first
alto restart -f   # doesn't

Ends every session here, restarts the server on the build installed now, and has open windows drop their tabs for one new one. reload is the one that keeps programs running.

Updates you don’t notice Planned · Phase 8

The app will update itself, the background service will follow on its own, and sessions on macOS and Linux will move to the new build without their programs noticing. Today, alto reload does the moving by hand.