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Budgie

PIN App Lock — Locks With the Encryption Key

A 4–6 digit PIN unlocks the app and unlocks the SQLCipher database. Without the PIN, the database file is unreadable — even with full filesystem access.

Why most app locks are decoration

Most app locks are decoration — a screen you can bypass by reading the storage layer. Budgie's PIN is wired to SQLCipher, so the same digits that pass the lock screen also derive the database encryption key.

App goes to background → lock kicks in. Wrong PIN doesn't lock you out forever, but a forgotten one is a real wipe (your call: keep the PIN safe).

What you get

PIN derives the SQLCipher database encryption key — not just a screen guard

4 to 6 digit PIN, configurable in Settings

App-background timer re-locks automatically

Optional biometric unlock binds to the same encryption key

No “forgot PIN” recovery — that's the privacy guarantee

How it works

Setup in Settings → PIN. Choose 4-6 digits. Optional biometric unlock binds Face ID / Touch ID to the same encryption key. The lock screen appears every cold launch and after a configurable inactivity window.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I forget my PIN?
The PIN is the encryption key — there's no recovery mechanism, by design. Keep your PIN somewhere safe (a password manager works) or use the database backup feature to restore from a known-good state.
How quickly does the app re-lock?
Re-lock fires when the app goes to background. The inactivity timer is configurable in Settings.
Is biometric the same as PIN security?
Biometrics unlock a key fragment in the platform Secure Enclave / Keystore that combines with your PIN-derived key. The platform vouches for biometric matching using the same hardware your bank app uses.
Does the lock work if my phone is jailbroken?
SQLCipher with a strong PIN protects against filesystem-level access, but a jailbroken device with active malware can capture the PIN at entry time. Don't unlock Budgie on a compromised device.

Ready to take Budgie for a spin?

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