Timber is a local-only log file viewer for macOS. Your privacy is fundamental to how we built this app.
Data Collection
Timber collects no data. Specifically:
No analytics or telemetry
No crash reporting services
No network requests of any kind
No user accounts or sign-in
No advertising or tracking
Local Data Storage
Timber stores the following data locally on your Mac:
Preferences — Window position, saved filters, query history, and recently opened file paths are stored in UserDefaults.
Security-scoped bookmarks — File access permissions granted via the open panel or drag-and-drop are saved so Timber can re-open files across sessions without re-prompting.
dSYM search directories — Paths you select for crash log symbolication are bookmarked for reuse.
All stored data remains on your device and is never transmitted.
File Access
Timber runs in the macOS App Sandbox. It can only access files you explicitly open via the file picker, drag-and-drop, or Finder's "Open With" menu. Timber reads files as read-only and never modifies your log files.
Third-Party Services
Timber uses no third-party services, SDKs, or frameworks that collect data. The app has no network capability.
Required-Reason API Usage
Per Apple's privacy requirements, Timber declares use of:
UserDefaults (CA92.1) — Storing app preferences
File timestamps (C617.1) — Displaying file modification dates and detecting changes for tail mode