Developments

Automatic Device Detection

Redkey now continuously monitors for device changes on both local and remote PCs. When a device is connected or removed, a scan begins automatically. This replaces the need to press refresh, ensuring new disks and mobiles are identified quickly without interrupting any existing tasks. The result is a faster, more streamlined workflow in ITAD mode.

Safe to Disconnect Indicator

In ITAD mode, USB drives and mobile devices now display a green “Safe to disconnect” status once wiping is complete. This replaces the usual info button, giving a clear signal when it is safe to remove a device.

IMEI Number Capture

Redkey now automatically attempts to retrieve IMEI numbers during the device check stage for both Apple and Android devices. On Android, the app tries several methods in sequence to maximize compatibility (including automated *#06# dialer entry). IMEI capture works on versions up to Android 14, but some of the latest models block access. In those cases, Redkey provides a simple prompt for manual entry. IMEI details are shown on-screen and are now included in reports.

Improved Mobile Device Info

The ITAD Info menu now works with mobile devices, displaying key details such as IMEI. Device model names are also more accurately reported, making identification clearer.

Android App Visual Updates

The Android app’s launcher and header logos have been simplified with “Ultimate” removed, as it is no longer edition-specific. A dedicated area has been added for the “reduce brightness” message, making it easier to notice during wipes.

System Stability Enhancements

• Suppressed GNOME system popups for a smoother experience when connecting devices.
  
• Fixed interference from a duplicate Apple library process found on some systems.
  
• Resolved a potential crash when empty card readers were connected in ITAD mode.
  
• Improved handling of report filenames when using IMEI data.
  

Language Table Updates

Shared language tables have been updated, modernising some wording within the app for greater clarity (for example, the names of wipe standards). A full language table overhaul is planned for the next update.

Custom Report File Naming Options

Fully Customizable Report Filenames

You can now define your own naming convention for saved reports. Choose from a wide range of elements such as date, time, computer model, serial numbers, disk or mobile details, and more. Each element can be arranged in any order to suit your workflow, with your choice of separators (underscore, dash, space, etc.).

Multiple Date and Time Formats

Select from several international date styles (e.g. day-first, month-first, year-first) and both 12-hour and 24-hour time formats for clearer organisation and easier sorting.

Advanced Device Details

Add specific device identifiers such as disk or mobile manufacturer, model, serial, IMEI (future feature), bus type, and remote MAC address. Unavailable details are replaced with a clear placeholder ‘not available’ for consistency.

Smart Multi-Device Handling

When reports include multiple devices, filenames automatically indicate this and skip device-specific fields to keep names concise.

Shortened Field Option

Long identifiers can be shortened to show only the first and last few characters for a cleaner look without losing uniqueness.

Live Preview While Editing

When adjusting the naming format, you’ll see an instant preview - using sample data for defaults or actual values for specific reports - so you know exactly how your filenames will appear.

Automatic Safe Characters

Illegal filename characters are automatically replaced with ~ (tilde) to ensure compatibility across systems.

Multilingual Input Reintroduced with Enhanced Controls

Rebuilt Language Input Support

Text input for non-Latin scripts - such as Japanese, Chinese, Hindi, and others - has been fully restored in this release. While Redkey previously supported multilingual input in v4.x, this capability has now been reimplemented from the ground up to work seamlessly with the modern Debian 12 base.

Smarter Keyboard Switching

Dedicated function keys simplify input control across all text fields:
[Ctl] + [1] opens the input mode menu
[Ctl] + [2] launches the configuration app for advanced methods
[Ctl] + [3] displays the keyboard layout view
These options work not just in settings but anywhere text is entered, including during report edits.

Expanded Input Method Options

The updated system supports a wide range of input methods, from Google MOZC and Anthy to Intelligent Pinyin and SKK. For languages with multiple input variants, a new selector helps users choose the preferred typing style.

Clearer Interface and Guidance

The language settings screen now offers a cleaner layout with easier navigation between basic and advanced input types.

Visual and Usability Improvements

Layout adjustments to the splash screen and updated button styling improve the user experience.

Efficient Filesystem Integration

New input tools have been added using an overlay method to minimize storage impact. The compressed addition totals just 82MB, helping preserve space on smaller capacity Redkeys while still delivering full functionality.

Factory Reset Recommended

To ensure full compatibility with the updated input system, we recommend performing a factory reset when updating to v5.64. This can be done via the Redkey Updater App settings menu.

Important Update: Recommended Full Refresh

Version 5.62 is a significant technical update designed to enhance reliability, compatibility, and overall performance - particularly in demanding usage scenarios. It includes essential improvements to RAID detection, Android device handling, and application stability under high CPU loads.

To ensure optimal performance, we strongly recommend performing a complete refresh for this update:
Delete all files and folders from your Redkey USB, then use the Redkey Updater to apply a fresh installation of the latest software version.

Improved RAID Warning Messages.

We’ve updated the RAID detection logic and refined warning messages, especially on Dell machines, to better guide users when internal drives may not be detected correctly. This enhancement addresses specific scenarios, ensuring users receive clear instructions to adjust BIOS settings.

Smarter Android Device Identification.

Android devices with generic serial numbers, like "123456," will now be distinguished by their USB connection port. This small yet practical update ensures accurate device listings even when serial numbers aren't unique.

Enhanced Stability Under Heavy Loads.

Significant improvements have been made to the mechanisms that handle data transfers between the Remote App and the main application. Large outputs (such as SMART data) now synchronize reliably, even during heavy CPU usage, eliminating occasional display issues.

Reliable App Restarts and Binary Operations.

We've refined how external applications and binary fill/verify operations are managed through the Remote App. Processes now restart more reliably under high CPU loads, significantly reducing rare interruptions during intensive wipe scenarios.

Accurate Parsing for Consecutive Tasks.

Resolved an issue where outputs from consecutive tasks were incorrectly parsed. This fix specifically addresses errors previously encountered with Samsung SSDs connected via JMicron USB adapters, ensuring accurate reporting across sequential wipe operations.

Screensaver Stability Fix.

Resolved a potential freeze issue when exiting the screensaver, further enhancing overall app stability.

Improved USB-to-SATA Compatibility.

Redkey now intelligently ignores certain benign errors ("SGIO") reported by SATA drives connected through USB adapters. This update addresses specific compatibility issues with popular devices, including SanDisk X110, Intel SSDs, and Samsung SSDs.

Preventing 'Starting Erase' Hangs.

Enhanced checks now promptly detect stalled erase operations (SAN, CRY, SOV), preventing the app from hanging indefinitely at the "Starting Erase" screen. This improvement is particularly beneficial for devices connected via Realtek USB adapters.

Faster ITAD Report Viewing.

We've optimized the ITAD Reports menu to improve loading speed and reduce flicker when displaying grouped reports. Additionally, the system now intelligently disregards minor CPU speed fluctuations, simplifying report grouping on variable-speed devices like MacBooks.

Quicker Startup with Logging Off.

When logging is disabled, Redkey skips unnecessary boot-time checks, significantly reducing the time taken to reach the main menu.

Simplified Remote App Logging.

Logs from the Remote App are now neatly organized into the same folder structure as the main application logs. This change makes it easier to correlate logs from both apps for troubleshooting purposes.

As always, thank you for choosing Redkey USB. Stay tuned for further updates!

Remote App Compatibility Update

A new update to the Remote App improves startup handling across a wider range of network configurations. Some systems using WWAN adaptors without standard address details may have previously experienced loading issues. The updated Remote App now includes additional checks to ensure smooth operation during launch.

Note: This update affects only the Remote App. The main app version has been incremented to V5.61 for tracking purposes.

Updated Report Layouts and Structure

This release unifies the report generation system across both the app and the online ITAD reports portal. While there are no changes to the user interface, the internal data structure now supports multiple revisions and integrates the latest SMART data layout. Existing reports remain fully compatible.

Reports Portal v1.20

The online report viewer has been updated to match the latest layout from the app. It now includes SMART health data and properly identifies when the Redkey Default Process is used.

Improved Wear Level Detection

Added support for another type of SMART wear level reporting, used by some Intel SATA SSDs. This helps deliver a more accurate picture of drive health even when data is reported through less common fields.

More Accurate Report Labels

The report now clearly identifies whether a wipe used a Default, Custom, or Standard process. Previous versions sometimes mislabeled default processes as “Custom.” Past reports will still show the older label, but reports saved from this version onward will show “Redkey Default Process” where appropriate.

Faster Startup Experience

Reduced the blank period between the splash screen and main menu. The app now shows the main menu more quickly, which also minimizes any unwanted right-click interaction on the desktop.

SMART Mode Detection Upgrades

If the default method to read SMART data fails, the app now tries alternative modes automatically. This improves compatibility with USB enclosures and adaptors that support both SATA and NVME drives.

Better Drive Type Detection

Added fallback logic to detect SSDs more accurately, even if system info misidentifies them. This ensures the correct icons and details appear in the interface and reports.

Bug Fixes

Resolved issues where mobile wipes in demo mode generated real reports, icons did not update after saving, and the app froze when scanning eMMC drives.

SMART Info Enhancements

Improved detection of disk life percentage from SATA SSDs, especially on older or less standard models. Reports now better reflect actual wear levels.

Display and Stability Tweaks

Set a safer minimum refresh rate (59 Hz or higher) to prevent display issues on some monitors. Added logging for crash analysis and improved multi-monitor behavior, though some window placement issues remain.

UI and Report Fixes

Fixed several bugs: incorrect labels, layout glitches, and issues with crash recovery. The report preview in the settings now includes SMART details for easier configuration.

Refined SMART Reporting

Following the introduction of SMART disk health monitoring in v5.53, this update improves how SMART data is gathered and displayed. Some devices with SMART disabled by default can now be queried by automatically enabling the feature when needed. Reports now combine disk life, uptime, remapped sector counts, and temperature into a clearer, more concise summary.

Enhanced Health Assessments

Health status in reports now uses a simple four-level gauge supported by updated logic. Flash-based drives display life remaining, while magnetic disks are assessed based on uptime. Temperature readings now include context, such as "normal range" or "monitor suggested," for quick understanding.

Improved Report Layout

SMART fields in the report have been reorganized for clarity. Remapped sectors before and after a wipe are shown on the same line with a disclaimer when necessary. Disk life percentage and uptime are now displayed together, followed by a health summary and temperature details.

Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements

A crash issue affecting some PCs during the wipe completion screen has been addressed. A temporary workaround remains available by disabling the wipe animation in settings. Sorting of disks in reports now matches the on-screen order. Several layout glitches related to multi-monitor setups have been noted for future improvement, and internal logic has been adjusted to prepare for more robust handling of display switching and positioning.

Other Changes

Report previews in the settings menu now include sample SMART data for demonstration purposes. The detailed disk info screen has also been updated to mirror the new format, using text-based health indicators for consistency.

SMART Disk Monitoring

Redkey now supports basic disk health monitoring. SMART information such as drive temperature, health status, and power-on time is shown in the disk details screen. This update also improves drive recognition for certain USB-connected NVMe devices, correctly identifying their model and serial numbers where this was not previously possible.

GTK4 Interface Refresh

This version finalises the move to GTK4, bringing a more modern, stable interface. Various interface elements now display more consistently, with corrected progress bars, better-aligned buttons and switches, and placeholder text that displays with the correct styling. Text and report layouts are more readable, especially at smaller zoom levels.

Improved Display and Scaling Controls

The resolution menu has been refined. The ‘Revert’ button now appears in yellow for better visibility, and invalid scaling options are automatically disabled based on the system’s resolution. These changes help maintain a usable interface across a wide range of screen sizes and configurations.

Connectivity Fixes

A previous issue that delayed WiFi connection attempts when the wrong password was entered has been resolved. Redkey now detects the error quickly and closes the related system message. A related bug affecting remote mode startup has also been addressed.

ITAD Visual Updates

Interface elements in ITAD mode have been refreshed, including updated scanning overlays and button icons. The voice message played at startup has been replaced with a new English version for all language settings.

Additional Enhancements

Disk information is now displayed using a monospace font for improved readability. The boot animation has been updated with a visible ‘loading’ label, and file dialogs have been refined for greater consistency. Several layout and alignment improvements were made across menus and reports.

Now Running on Debian 12 with GNOME

Redkey has been upgraded to the latest stable version of Debian Linux, now featuring the GNOME desktop environment. This brings better system compatibility, smoother performance, and a more modern look and feel.

New Boot Animation

A fresh boot-time animation now shows progress during startup and shutdown, making it easier to know when the system is ready.

Improved Display Handling

We've made adjustments to improve display scaling and resolution handling, especially on high-resolution screens. Temporary scaling limits ensure the interface remains stable and usable.

ITAD Visual Updates

Visual branding for ITAD editions has been refreshed across the splash screen, background, and menus for a more polished experience.

Wipe Completion Fix

Corrected an issue where the final wipe animation played even when no disks were successfully wiped. It now shows only when at least one wipe completes.

New Report Format, USB-C Support, and Initial backend support added for the upcoming ITAD edition.

Redesigned Report Format

All editions now feature a fully refreshed report layout for improved clarity, organization, and functionality. As before, Professional and Ultimate users can save reports to the Redkey or an external USB device.

Version History for Reports

Each finalized version of a report is now stored as a separate, unalterable revision. This enhances audit compliance and data authenticity.

New Splash Screen with Clock & Date

The splash screen now includes a real-time clock and date settings, offering a more polished startup experience.

USB-C to LAN Adapter Support

We’ve added support for USB-C to Ethernet adapters, expanding connectivity options during setup.

Updated Voice Support

Improvements to voice functionality enhance accessibility and system interaction.

Refined Settings Menu

The settings menu has been reorganized for easier navigation and a cleaner interface.

Secure Bootloader Fix

A fix has been applied to improve secure bootloader compatibility on affected systems.

Foundation for ITAD Edition

Core support has been added in preparation for the upcoming ITAD-focused edition of Redkey.

Other Enhancements & Fixes

This update includes several backend improvements and minor bug fixes to enhance overall stability.

Improved Disk Detection, App Stability, and Report Reliability

Faster Disk Detection

We improved detection logic to reduce lag and speed up system performance during initial disk scans.

Accurate Drive Listings

An issue where phantom drives were temporarily displayed has been corrected. Redkey now only shows connected disks.

Remote App Auto-Restart

The local copy of the remote app now auto-restarts if it crashes, fixing a problem that previously caused a blue error icon to appear.

Partition Crash Fix

We resolved a crash that occasionally occurred during the partitioning or formatting process.

Mobile Connection Stability

Mobile devices are now handled more reliably thanks to improved background synchronization and display updates.

Clearer Protected Disk Notifications

Notifications now more clearly indicate when disks are write-protected or otherwise restricted.

Fixed Empty Reports Bug

Reports now display correctly and are only generated after a successful wipe, eliminating blank report issues.

Improved Shutdown Handling

Redkey now shuts down cleanly even when external USB disks are connected, fixing an issue where shutdowns would hang.

License Checks, Disk Handling Improvements, and New Internet Setup Wizard

Smarter License Verification

We refined the license check system for greater reliability and smoother activation during setup.

Improved Disk Handling

Better handling for internal disks with unusual SCSI responses ensures more accurate detection and interaction.

New Internet Connection Wizard

A guided setup wizard now helps users connect to the internet more easily when needed.

Looking Ahead: Multi-Device Features

Behind the scenes, we’re preparing new tools designed to streamline management of multiple devices. More details coming soon.

Updated Hardware Version Display and Formatting Enhancements

Adjusted Hardware Version Ranges

We refined the way hardware version ranges are presented, improving accuracy and alignment with updated product batches.

Top Bar Format Update

Formatting for version information in the application's top bar has been updated for clearer identification and consistency.

Pro Report Editing, Hardware Info Updates, and Enhanced Language Support

Report Editing in Pro Edition

Professional users can now edit report fields directly, offering greater flexibility and customization during documentation.

Updated Hardware Version Format

We’ve refined how hardware version ranges appear in the top bar, improving clarity and consistency.

Live Language Updates

Language tables are now sourced in real time from the translations server, ensuring more accurate and diverse language support.

New Serial Port Mode

Serial Port Mode is now available for both local boot and remote sessions. Update files include all necessary EFI and BIOS support files, along with batch files for manual switching in the ‘Mode_Switch’ subfolder. A warning and confirmation prompt is shown when enabling this mode.

Android Detection Fix for Latest OS Versions

Improved Android Device Detection

Resolved an issue in the Ultimate edition that affected recognition of Android devices running the latest operating systems. Redkey now detects and processes these devices more reliably.

More Reliable Android Detection

Android Device Detection Enhancements

We’ve made improvements to the Android detection process in the Ultimate edition, ensuring better consistency and performance when identifying connected devices.

Remote Shutdown, Screenshot Tools, and Enhanced Connectivity Settings

Remote Shutdown Feature

You can now shut down a computer remotely after a data wipe using a new toggle on the “wipe in progress” screen.

Hex Viewer Navigation Improvements

Navigation in both GUI and TUI modes has been improved with keyboard shortcuts and smoother scrolling for a better analysis experience.

Enhanced Screenshot Function

You can now capture pop-up messages in both interfaces using a dedicated screenshot button.

Online/Offline Toggle in Main Settings

A new switch in the settings menu lets you control the internet connection status manually, with helpful prompts for reconnecting when needed.

RAID Detection Enhancements and Splash Screen Fixes

Improved RAID and Logical Disk Detection

Redkey now detects RAID controllers and logical disks more effectively, with new alerts and detailed system insights to assist during the wipe process.

Splash Screen Bug Fix

We fixed an issue where the splash screen failed to load correctly if no sound device was present, ensuring a smoother startup experience.

Better System Clock Accuracy

We’ve refined how the system clock is checked and adjusted, helping correct large time variances automatically.

Smarter Device Detection, Mobile Erasure Upgrades, and UI Enhancements

Simplified Device Selection

When only one device is detected, the “This one” button now glows green, making it quicker to begin the wipe process.

Guided Apple Device Erasure

Added automated online erasure support for older Apple devices, including IPSW firmware reinstallation guidance.

Language and Menu Updates

Descriptions for IPSW restore and internet setup menus have been added for better clarity.

Visual Status Indicators

Status icons and highlights are now visible in cache file locations, excluding FAT32-formatted partitions.

Refined Mobile Wipe Interface

The mobile wipe layout has been redesigned with intuitive icons, borders, and improved navigation.

Improved Restore Logic

Better logic for restore/manual options, including new prompts for auto-lock and a refreshed layout for step-by-step guidance.

Modernized Progress Display

Includes a new step indicator, scanning animation, and detailed wipe progress information.

Expanded Device Compatibility

Tested extensively on various iPhone and iPad models, with improved detection of edge cases and failure scenarios.

Step-by-Step Prep Screens and Improved Error Handling

Mobile Prep Guide for Apple Devices

New preparation screens walk users through charging, updating software, backing up data, logging out of iCloud, and removing SIM cards before wiping.

Mobile Prep Guide for Android Devices

Android users are guided through essential pre-wipe steps, including enabling Developer Mode and USB Debugging.

Enhanced Disk Error Prompts

Improved error messages help users address issues with SATA disks and specific RAID configurations, particularly on Dell systems.

NVMe Suspend Handling

New logic improves compatibility with problematic NVMe drives, especially Samsung models and Lenovo ThinkPads, to prevent system hangs during wipes.

Japanese Keyboard Settings and Language Support Updates

Anthy Keyboard Configuration

A new option in the menu settings allows users to configure the Anthy keyboard, primarily used in the Japanese language pack.

Advanced Japanese Keyboard Enhancements

Improved Japanese Input Options

We introduced advanced settings for the Japanese keyboard system, making it easier to type and create reports in Japanese.

Enhanced Japanese Support and New Screenshot Feature

Better Japanese Text Handling

Support for Japanese text has been improved, ensuring more reliable entry and display across the system.

Screenshot on Wipe Completion

A new screenshot feature has been added to the final “Data Wiped” screen, making it easy to capture a record of the completed process.

Expanded Language Input for Asian Scripts

Text Entry Improvements

We enhanced support for Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Hindi input. New sub-modes and key combinations make it easier to enter complex characters.

Localized Text Input and General Bug Fixes

Localized Text Entry Support

Redkey now supports localized text input across more languages, making the system more accessible to a global audience.

General Bug Fixes

This update also includes several minor fixes to improve stability and user experience.

Mobile Device Reconnection Fix

Improved Reconnection After Reset

We resolved an issue where mobile devices had trouble reconnecting after a factory reset, improving reliability during repeated wipes.

Report Formatting and Multilingual Display Improvements

Refined Report Date Formatting

Dates in reports now follow a clearer, more consistent format for improved readability.

Multilingual Font Support

Enhanced support for various fonts ensures better display across multiple languages.

Improved English Language Table

Updates to the English language table provide clearer communication throughout the interface.

Speech Fixes, Auto-Save Reports, and Script Controls

Speech Playback Fixes

We corrected issues affecting speech playback to improve audio performance and accessibility.

Automatic Report Saving

Reports now save automatically after a wipe, helping ensure that no data is lost unintentionally.

Script Control Features

New script control options provide more flexibility for advanced users customizing the wipe process.

User Settings Updates

Settings files now retain user preferences more reliably across sessions.

Bootloader Enhancements and Remote Mode Updates

Upgraded Linux Bootloader Files

We improved the bootloader for better compatibility and performance during system startup.

Remote Mode Boot Support

Updates to remote mode boot files ensure smoother operation in remote data wiping scenarios.

Various Bug Fixes

This version includes multiple backend fixes to enhance overall system stability.

Automated Mobile Erasure and Language Updates

Automatic Wipe for iOS and Android

Added automated erasure support for iOS 9+ and Android 10+ devices, streamlining the mobile wipe process.

Updated English Language Pack

Improvements to the English language pack enhance clarity and consistency throughout the interface.

Modern Interface, Custom Screensavers, and Wipe Wizard

GUI and Notification Bar Updates

We introduced a cleaner, more modern graphical interface, complete with a top-bar notification feature for key system alerts.

Linux Subsystem Upgrade

Redkey now runs on the upgraded Linux Bullseye base, improving stability and hardware compatibility.

Custom Screensavers and Audio Enhancements

New screensavers and improved audio support offer a more refined user experience.

Wipe Wizard Introduction

A guided Wipe Wizard is now available, helping users navigate the wipe process with ease.

Boot Menu Tweaks and Screenshot Integration

Boot Menu and Loader Updates

Refinements to the boot menus and loaders provide a smoother and more reliable startup experience.

Secure Screenshot Feature

New functionality allows secure screenshot capture, useful for record-keeping and support scenarios.

Screensaver Improvements

Enhancements to the screensaver system deliver a more polished idle-state experience.

Improved SED Detection for High-End Systems

Better SED Compatibility

Enhanced support for Self-Encrypting Drives (SEDs) on high-end systems ensures more accurate detection and secure wiping.

Stability Enhancements on High-End Devices

Improved System Reliability

This update focuses on improving performance and stability when running Redkey on high-end hardware setups.

Partition Wipe Feature and NVMe Fixes

Wipe by Partition Option

A new feature allows users to target specific partitions for data wiping, offering more control over the process.

Improved NVMe Compatibility

We addressed compatibility issues with NVMe drives and fixed a system hang that occurred with empty card readers.

Crash Fix After Language Selection

Post-Language Menu Crash Resolved

We fixed a bug that caused the system to crash after selecting a language on certain machines, improving reliability during startup.

New Help Screen and Language Enhancements

Help Screen Feature Added

A new help screen has been introduced to assist users during the wipe process, offering quick access to key information.

Asian Language Support Improvements

Better support for Asian languages in the TUI ensures improved readability and input handling.

Expanded Multi-Language Support

Integrated Translations

This update introduces actual translations for supported languages, enhancing the multilingual user experience throughout the interface.

Suspend Feature Update and GUI Troubleshooting Tools

Improved Suspend Functionality

We enhanced the Suspend feature for better reliability during low-power states or pauses in the wipe process.

New GUI Troubleshooting Options

Troubleshooting tools have been added to the graphical interface, helping users diagnose and resolve common issues more easily.

Better USB Card Reader Handling

USB card readers are now managed more reliably, improving compatibility and stability.