Feature Request: Git-Based Settings Sync

[znowfox]

Feature Request: Git-Based Settings Sync

Description

A feature to enable seamless synchronization of settings and configurations across multiple devices via Git, similar to Electerm's settings sync functionality. This will allow users to automatically sync their settings with a specified Git repository, ensuring consistent configurations on all devices without the need for manual export/import.

Motivation

Tabby users often use the app across multiple devices and environments. Implementing Git-based settings sync will:

1. Ensure consistent configurations across different devices.
2. Simplify configuration management for teams and individuals who want to maintain a uniform setup.
3. Reduce the time spent on manually configuring each instance of Tabby.
4. Increase productivity by maintaining a seamless environment across development machines.

Proposed Implementation

1. Add a Git Integration Option in Settings

   • Add an option in the settings menu where users can link a Git repository for syncing.
   • Allow users to specify the repository URL and set up Git credentials or SSH keys for authentication.

2. Syncing Mechanics

   • Provide options to set sync intervals or sync manually.
   • When syncing, push any local changes in settings to the Git repository, or pull updates from the repository if newer changes are detected.
   • Handle conflicts (e.g., via prompts or a "Last Write Wins" approach).

3. Settings Backup Structure

   • Use a .tabby-config or similar folder structure in the repository to store settings.
   • Enable the syncing of profiles, themes, plugins, and any other custom configurations.

4. Encryption and Privacy Options

   • Allow users to encrypt sensitive data like credentials, possibly with a passphrase, before pushing to Git.
   • Add an option to exclude specific settings (e.g., credentials) from sync if users prefer not to store them in Git.

5. UI/UX Considerations

   • Provide clear indicators of sync status (e.g., last synced timestamp, sync errors).
   • Display a summary of changes before syncing to give users a clear view of what will be pushed/pulled.

Potential Challenges

• Conflict Resolution: Strategies for handling conflicts between local and remote settings.
• Security: Ensuring sensitive settings data remains secure, especially when using public repositories.
• Network Issues: Handling sync failures gracefully if the user is offline or has network issues.

References

• Electerm’s Git Sync Feature: Electerm Git Sync Documentation

[GeekCornerGH]

There's a Git plugin available (plugin section) that allows you to sync through GitHub Gist for example