Fixing Finch Homebrew Cask Deprecation Unsigned Installer Package Issue

Hey everyone, let's dive into an issue affecting Finch users on macOS. The Homebrew cask for Finch has been marked as disabled/deprecated because the installer package isn't signed. This means there's a looming deadline, and we need to address this to ensure a smooth experience for everyone using Finch.

Understanding the Problem: The Unsigned Installer

The core issue? The .pkg installer for Finch isn't signed or notarized with an Apple Developer ID. Homebrew flags this as a security concern. You see, Apple requires developers to sign their software to verify its authenticity and ensure it hasn't been tampered with. Think of it like a digital signature that assures users, "Hey, this software is legit and comes from a trusted source." Without this signature, Homebrew throws up a warning and has even scheduled the cask for removal after September 1, 2026. This is a problem that we need to solve, and it is important that the Finch installer is properly signed and notarized to meet Apple's security standards and avoid the Homebrew deprecation. An unsigned package can lead to security warnings during installation, potentially deterring new users, and ultimately, removal from Homebrew would make Finch less accessible for macOS users. Ensuring the installer is signed and notarized will not only address these concerns but also maintain a seamless installation experience and build trust with the user base.

This situation affects all of us using Finch on macOS. It's about keeping things secure and ensuring Finch remains easily accessible. Imagine downloading software and getting a big warning sign – not a great experience, right? We want to avoid that. The importance of signing and notarizing software cannot be overstated in today's digital landscape. It's a crucial step in protecting users from malware and ensuring software integrity. By addressing this issue, we're not just resolving a technicality; we're reinforcing the security and reliability of Finch for all its users. This is a proactive measure that demonstrates a commitment to user safety and a dedication to maintaining a high-quality software experience. Furthermore, signing and notarization are best practices that align with industry standards, and it will make Finch more professional and trustworthy. It's an investment in the long-term viability and user confidence in the project.

Recreating the Issue: Steps to See the Warning

Want to see the warning for yourself? It’s pretty straightforward:

1. Open your terminal and run brew info --cask finch
2. You’ll likely see this message: finch was disabled on 2026-09-01 because: unsigned

This message is a clear indicator that the Finch package is flagged as unsigned and is scheduled for deprecation. This means that Homebrew will eventually stop offering Finch as a cask, making it harder for new users to install the application. This warning message isn't just a formality; it's a signal that action is needed. It's a prompt for the maintainers to address the signing and notarization issue to ensure the continued availability and security of Finch for macOS users. Seeing this warning should underscore the urgency of the situation and motivate efforts to rectify the problem before the deprecation date. Ignoring this warning could lead to a fragmented user experience and potentially limit the adoption of Finch on macOS, which could be bad for the community.

This simple test helps illustrate the problem and why it’s important to fix. It's a tangible way to understand the impact of an unsigned package on the user experience. It also highlights the importance of Homebrew's role in maintaining the integrity of software installations and protecting users from potentially harmful applications. By proactively addressing this issue, the Finch team can ensure that users can continue to install and use Finch with confidence, knowing that the software meets Apple's security standards and is supported by Homebrew. This is an essential step in maintaining the trust of the user community and fostering the continued growth and success of the Finch project.

The Impact: Why This Matters

So, why should we care about this? Here’s the breakdown:

• Security Warnings: New users might see security warnings (or even be completely blocked) during installation. No one wants that kind of friction.
• Future Removal: After September 1, 2026, the cask will be removed from Homebrew. This makes installation way less convenient for macOS users. Think about it – Homebrew is a popular way to install software on macOS. Removing Finch from Homebrew adds extra steps and complexity for users, which is not ideal.

The impact of unsigned packages extends beyond just the initial warning message. It creates a barrier to entry for new users who might be hesitant to install software that's flagged as potentially insecure. It also undermines the trust that users place in Homebrew as a reliable source for software. If a package is unsigned, it raises questions about the software's integrity and whether it has been tampered with. This uncertainty can deter users from adopting Finch, which could impact its growth and adoption within the macOS community. Additionally, the removal of the cask from Homebrew would significantly impact the user experience, as it would require users to resort to more manual and potentially complicated installation methods. This not only adds inconvenience but also increases the risk of errors during the installation process. Therefore, addressing this issue is crucial not only for security reasons but also for maintaining user satisfaction and ensuring the long-term viability of Finch on macOS.

This situation also highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and adherence to best practices in software development. By signing and notarizing the installer package, the Finch team can demonstrate their commitment to providing a secure and user-friendly experience. This not only benefits current users but also helps to attract new users who value security and reliability. Ignoring this issue could have long-term consequences, potentially damaging the reputation of Finch and limiting its adoption within the macOS ecosystem. Therefore, it's imperative that the maintainers address this issue promptly to avoid these negative impacts and ensure the continued success of Finch.

The Goal: Signed and Notarized Goodness

Ideally, the Finch installer should be signed and notarized. This way, Homebrew can remove the disable! flag, and Finch remains available without any pesky warnings. This is what we want – a smooth, secure installation process for everyone. Signing and notarizing the installer package is a crucial step in ensuring that the Finch software meets the security standards required by Apple and Homebrew. This process involves obtaining a digital certificate from Apple and using it to sign the package, verifying its authenticity and integrity. Notarization is an additional step that involves submitting the signed package to Apple for a security review. Apple then scans the package for malware and other security threats and, if it passes the review, issues a notarization ticket. This ticket is then attached to the package, providing further assurance to users that the software is safe to install.

By following these steps, the Finch team can ensure that their software is trusted by both Homebrew and macOS users. This not only eliminates the warning messages and ensures the continued availability of Finch on Homebrew but also enhances the overall user experience. A signed and notarized package instills confidence in users, reassuring them that the software is legitimate and has not been tampered with. This can lead to increased adoption and positive word-of-mouth, further contributing to the success of the Finch project. Furthermore, signing and notarization are essential for maintaining the reputation of the software and demonstrating a commitment to security and user safety. In today's digital landscape, where security threats are prevalent, taking these proactive measures is crucial for building and maintaining trust with users.

Environment Details

For those who are curious, here’s the environment where this issue was observed:

• macOS 15.5 (Sonoma)
• Homebrew 4.x
• Finch version: latest release (as of 2025-07-28)

These details help provide context and ensure that the issue is reproducible across different environments. Knowing the specific operating system version, Homebrew version, and Finch version can help developers pinpoint the root cause of the problem and implement the appropriate fix. This information is also valuable for users who may be experiencing the same issue and are looking for solutions. By providing these details, it's easier for the Finch community to collaborate and work towards resolving the problem efficiently. This transparency and attention to detail contribute to the overall quality and reliability of the software.

Furthermore, documenting the environment in which the issue was observed can help prevent similar problems from occurring in the future. By understanding the specific conditions that trigger the warning message, developers can implement safeguards to ensure that the installer package remains signed and notarized in future releases. This proactive approach can save time and resources in the long run and help maintain a consistent and secure user experience across different platforms and configurations. Therefore, including environment details in bug reports and issue discussions is a best practice that benefits both developers and users.

The Request: Let’s Get This Signed!

So, here's the ask: Can the maintainers sign and notarize the macOS .pkg installer with a valid Apple Developer ID and submit it to Homebrew so the cask can be re-enabled? This is the key to resolving this issue and keeping Finch accessible to everyone. This request is not just about technical compliance; it's about ensuring the long-term viability and success of Finch. By addressing the signing and notarization issue, the maintainers can demonstrate their commitment to providing a secure and user-friendly experience for macOS users. This will not only benefit current users but also attract new users who value security and reliability.

Signing and notarizing the installer package involves a series of steps, including obtaining an Apple Developer ID, generating a certificate, and using the codesign tool to sign the package. The notarization process involves submitting the signed package to Apple for review and obtaining a notarization ticket. Once the package is notarized, it can be submitted to Homebrew for re-enablement. While this process may seem complex, there are numerous resources and guides available online that can help the maintainers navigate the steps. By taking the time to address this issue, the maintainers can ensure that Finch remains a valuable tool for macOS users for years to come. This is an investment in the future of the project and a testament to the dedication of the Finch team.

Thanks a bunch for your hard work on Finch! Your efforts are greatly appreciated, and we're all looking forward to seeing this issue resolved. This is a collaborative effort, and by working together, we can ensure that Finch remains a top-notch tool for developers and users alike. The Finch community is a vibrant and supportive group, and by addressing this issue collectively, we can strengthen the bonds within the community and foster a sense of shared ownership and responsibility. Let's all do our part to help ensure the continued success of Finch.