# State File Importance

# Why `.conf/python/update.state` Must Be Tracked

The update.state file serves a critical function in the ReVanced version updater:

# What it contains:

Timestamp: When the last update was performed
Data snapshot: JSON representation of the last known patch data

# Why it's essential:

Prevents unnecessary updates: Without it, the script would update files on every run
Tracks state across deployments: GitHub Actions needs this to know when last update occurred
Enables smart scheduling: Only updates when versions actually change or after 1 week
Preserves workflow efficiency: Prevents spam commits and rebuilds

# Example content:

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{"com.google.android.youtube": {"latest_version": "20.12.46", ...}, ...}

# What happens without it:

❌ Script assumes it's the first run and forces updates
❌ Files get updated unnecessarily on every workflow run
❌ Website rebuilds constantly even with no version changes
❌ Commit history gets cluttered with redundant updates

# Conclusion:

Unlike the API cache files (patches_list.json, patches_version.json) which are purely temporary downloads, the state file contains persistent state information that must be preserved between runs.