vibetunnel/docs/RELEASE_IMPROVEMENTS.md

Release Process Improvements Summary

Issues Fixed

1. ✅ Dry-Run Mode Now Actually Dry

• Added proper --dry-run flag support that prevents ALL file modifications
• Shows what would be done without making any changes
• Can be used with any release type: ./scripts/release.sh beta 7 --dry-run

2. ✅ Clear Parameter Documentation

• Added --help flag with comprehensive usage examples
• Better error messages that show exactly what's expected
• Created RELEASE_PROCESS.md with detailed workflow documentation

3. ✅ CHANGELOG.md Location Fixed

• Script now looks in project root first (where it actually exists)
• Removed confusing warnings about copying to mac/ directory
• Falls back gracefully if not found

4. ✅ iOS Info.plist Fixed

• Changed from hardcoded "1.0" to $(MARKETING_VERSION)
• Changed from hardcoded "1" to $(CURRENT_PROJECT_VERSION)
• Now properly syncs with version.xcconfig

5. ✅ Version Management Clarified

• Documented that version.xcconfig is the source of truth
• Script parameters are for validation, not version modification
• Clear examples of correct usage for each release type

New Features

Enhanced Error Messages

# Before: Confusing error
❌ Error: Pre-release number required for beta

# After: Clear guidance
❌ Error: Pre-release number required for beta releases
Usage: ./scripts/release.sh beta <number>
Example: ./scripts/release.sh beta 7

Proper Argument Parsing

• Supports flags in any order
• Validates pre-release numbers are positive integers
• Shows helpful examples on errors

Comprehensive Documentation

• docs/RELEASE_PROCESS.md - Complete workflow guide
• Clear explanation of version vs release type relationship
• Common mistakes and troubleshooting section

Usage Examples

Test a release without changes:

./scripts/release.sh beta 7 --dry-run

Get help:

./scripts/release.sh --help

Create actual release:

./scripts/release.sh beta 7

Benefits

1. Safer: Dry-run prevents accidental modifications during testing
2. Clearer: Better documentation and error messages reduce confusion
3. Consistent: iOS now uses same version variables as macOS
4. Maintainable: Improved code structure makes future changes easier