What is hypercritical.co?
Hyperspace is a specialized Mac application designed to help users recover valuable disk space without the need to delete files. It operates by scanning for files with identical content that are not already clones of each other and then converting them into APFS (Apple File System) clones, which share a single instance of data on disk. This process leverages the copy-on-write clone feature of APFS, allowing users to maintain all their files while reducing storage usage.
The app provides a free download with the ability to scan and estimate potential space savings. To actually reclaim space, users must purchase the app. Hyperspace includes extensive documentation and has evolved through multiple versions to safely handle packages, cloud storage, and library folders, with settings to control access to these sensitive areas. It is built using SwiftUI and Swift 6, targeting users who want to optimize their Mac's storage without losing data.
Features
- APFS Clone Conversion: Converts duplicate files into APFS clones to share data and reclaim disk space without file deletion
- Free Scanning: Allows users to scan their disk for potential space savings at no cost
- Package Support: Handles packages like Apple Photos libraries and iMovie projects with configurable settings
- Cloud Storage Integration: Works with cloud-backed files from services like iCloud Drive, OneDrive, and Google Drive
- Library Folder Access: Can scan and reclaim space from important Library folders with user-controlled settings
- Extensive Documentation: Provides detailed guides on functionality and usage
Use Cases
- Freeing up disk space on a Mac without deleting files
- Optimizing storage for users with large duplicate files
- Managing space in cloud storage directories
- Handling packages like Photos libraries to reduce storage footprint
- Scanning Library folders for potential space savings
FAQs
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How does Hyperspace reclaim disk space without deleting files?
Hyperspace identifies files with identical content and converts them into APFS clones, which share a single instance of data on disk, reducing storage usage while keeping all files intact. -
Is Hyperspace free to use?
Hyperspace is a free download that allows users to scan their disk for potential space savings. To actually reclaim space, users must purchase the app. -
What types of files can Hyperspace handle?
Hyperspace can handle normal files, packages (e.g., Apple Photos libraries), cloud storage files (e.g., from iCloud Drive or OneDrive), and Library folders, with settings to control access to these areas. -
Does Hyperspace work with cloud storage services?
Yes, Hyperspace supports cloud-backed files from services like iCloud Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, and some versions of Dropbox using Apple's file provider APIs. -
Is Hyperspace safe to use on important files?
Hyperspace is designed with safety in mind, including settings to limit access to sensitive areas like packages and Library folders, and it errs on the side of caution when handling files, but users should review documentation and use settings appropriately.
