From the workbench

Changelog

Release notes for a deliberately focused utility.

August 1, 2026 · Build 11

Vern 1.0.0

Vern’s first public release turns files and folders into password-protected Apple Encrypted Archives with one simple drag-and-drop workflow.

Protection

  • Encrypt one or many files and folders into a single .aea archive beside the originals.
  • Use Apple Archive’s strong scrypt-based password profile with authenticated encryption and LZFSE compression.
  • Generate and copy a unique 32-character password, then open Apple Passwords to save it.
  • Open completed archives through macOS Archive Utility without requiring Vern.

Originals and verification

  • Leave originals untouched by default.
  • Optionally bypass Trash only after Vern decrypt-verifies the finished archive.
  • Show a clear one-time warning before permanent deletion can be enabled.
  • Avoid replacing existing archives by choosing a numbered filename automatically.

Mac experience

  • Native SwiftUI and AppKit interface in Verkheim’s Snow, Fjord, Pine, and Cabin palette.
  • Inline password and irreversible-warning screens keep the workflow inside one window.
  • In-app Help, feedback, About, manual updates, and a quiet daily update check are included.
  • The public app is Developer ID signed, notarized, stapled, and distributed as a ZIP without an installer.

Download Vern 1.0

Vern 1.0 is available for Apple silicon Macs running macOS 14 or later.

Download Vern 1.0.0 or read the Help page.