Fixing TachiyomiSY Backup Issues: Manual & Auto

Dec 6, 2025 by Admin 48 views

Hey There, Manga Lovers! Facing TachiyomiSY Backup Woes?

Guys, we've all been there – pouring countless hours into curating our manga libraries on TachiyomiSY. It’s our digital sanctuary, a place where epic stories unfold right on our devices. But imagine the sheer panic when you try to back it all up, either manually or automatically, and… nothing happens. Or worse, you get a 0-byte file that’s utterly useless! It’s super frustrating, right? Especially when you’re trying to safeguard your progress, your reading lists, and all those precious settings. This isn't just a minor glitch; it's a potential catastrophe for your manga collection, making you feel like you're constantly on edge about losing everything. You might be scratching your head, wondering, "Why can't I do manual backup or auto backup anymore?" You're definitely not alone in this boat, my friend. Many users, especially those on specific Android versions or devices like the Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro, have reported similar issues where their TachiyomiSY backups fail to complete, leaving them vulnerable to data loss. The sheer volume of manga and manhwa, the custom categories, the read chapters, and even the personalized themes – all these elements represent a significant investment of your time and effort. Losing them because a simple backup process isn't working as it should is not only inconvenient but genuinely disheartening. This article is your ultimate guide to understanding, diagnosing, and fixing these backup problems so you can get back to enjoying your manga with absolute peace of mind. We're going to dive deep into the common culprits, from quirky app behaviors and permission snags to device-specific settings and even some hidden system oddities that might be sabotaging your efforts. Our goal is to provide you with clear, actionable steps to ensure your TachiyomiSY data is safe and sound, allowing you to create that crucial backup.bin file successfully. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, troubleshoot these annoying issues, and get your TachiyomiSY backups working like a charm again, securing your manga universe for good!

Understanding the Problem: What's Really Going On with Your Backups?

The core issue here, guys, is that both manual and auto backups in TachiyomiSY aren't working as expected, which is a major bummer for anyone relying on them for data safety. When you attempt a manual backup by navigating to "More" -> "Data and storage" -> "Create backup," you're expecting a popup notification confirming completion and, most importantly, a proper backup.bin file to appear in your chosen location. However, what actually happens is a frustrating silence—no notification—and instead of a robust backup file, you're left with a useless 0-byte backup.bin file. This tiny, empty file is the clearest sign that the backup process is failing right at the start or getting interrupted immediately. It’s like hitting save on a document and finding an empty file; all your work, all your precious manga data, is simply not being captured. This isn't just a one-off problem; the user jobobby04 even reported that this issue has been persistent for the last two months, indicating a more systemic failure rather than a temporary glitch. Moreover, the auto backup feature, which is supposed to provide a consistent safety net by running at specified frequencies, is also going rogue. Instead of predictable, scheduled backups, they're happening randomly, if at all. This inconsistency means you can’t rely on them to protect your library, further compounding the problem. This behavior strongly suggests that the app is either hitting a permissions wall, encountering storage issues, or being aggressively halted by the operating system before it can complete its task. Understanding these specific symptoms—the 0-byte file, the lack of notifications, and random auto backups—is the first critical step in diagnosing and ultimately fixing these TachiyomiSY backup issues. We need to peel back the layers and understand why your Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro, running Android 12, might be struggling with this essential function, especially since it was working perfectly fine a few months ago. The unexpected behavior of auto-backups, in particular, points to potential background processing limitations or system-level interventions that are preventing TachiyomiSY from executing its tasks reliably. It's not just about getting manual backups to work; it's about restoring the reliability and peace of mind that automatic backups are designed to provide.

Why Are Your Backups Failing? Diving Into the Root Causes

Alright, so we know what's happening, but why? This is where we put on our detective hats, guys, and look at the potential culprits behind your TachiyomiSY backup failures. Based on the information provided, especially the crash logs and device details, we can pinpoint a few common areas that usually cause these kinds of headaches. First up, and often the biggest offender, is storage permissions. Even if you think you've given TachiyomiSY all the necessary access, Android 12, especially on devices like the Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro, can be pretty strict with how apps interact with storage. A common scenario is that the app doesn't have the explicit permission to write to the designated backup location, or perhaps it only has temporary access that gets revoked. This would perfectly explain the 0-byte file – the app starts to create the file, but then hits a wall and can't write any data to it, leaving you with an empty shell. Secondly, let's talk about battery optimization and background restrictions. You mentioned you've already tinkered with battery optimization and auto-start settings, which is awesome! However, some Android skins, particularly MIUI on Xiaomi devices, are notoriously aggressive when it comes to killing background processes to save battery. Even if you've explicitly set an app to be "unrestricted" or "no restrictions," the system might still intervene, especially if the backup process is long or resource-intensive. This could be why your auto backups are happening randomly or not at all – the system is just shutting TachiyomiSY down mid-task. The crash logs showing E SQLiteLog: (284) automatic index on C(manga_id) and similar entries suggest database operations are occurring, which are part of the backup process, but the absence of a successful completion message indicates an interruption. While these specific SQLite logs aren't direct error messages indicating a crash, they show TachiyomiSY is trying to interact with its database, which is a key part of gathering data for a backup. If this process is abruptly stopped, it leads to failure. Thirdly, internal app data corruption or a bug within the specific app version (1.12.0 in your case) could be a factor. While less common, sometimes an update or an internal glitch can cause core functions like backup to falter. The fact that it was working fine a few months ago (last September) and then stopped without an Android update is significant. This might suggest an app update introduced the issue, or some cumulative effect on your device’s data. Lastly, the WebView component (Android System WebView 143.0.7499.34) sometimes plays a role in app stability, though it's less likely to directly impact a backup process unless the backup involves fetching external data or the app's internal UI framework is heavily reliant on it. The Seed missing signature error from chromium might point to a broader system or WebView issue that could indirectly affect app stability, but it's probably not the primary cause of a 0-byte backup file. Ultimately, the most probable culprits for TachiyomiSY backup failures boil down to tricky permissions, overzealous system optimizations, or an internal app hiccup. We're going to tackle each of these head-on to get your backups working.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting: How to Fix Manual Backups in TachiyomiSY

Alright, guys, let’s get down to business and systematically fix these manual backup issues in TachiyomiSY. We’re going to cover everything from the basics to some deeper dives to ensure your precious manga library is safely backed up.

1. Verify and Grant Storage Permissions

This is often the number one culprit for a 0-byte backup file. Android's permission model can be a bit tricky, especially on newer versions and customized OEM skins like Xiaomi's MIUI.

Access App Info: Go to your phone's "Settings" app, find "Apps" or "Applications," then locate TachiyomiSY.
Permissions Section: Tap on "Permissions."
Storage Access: Look for "Files and media" or "Storage" permission. Make sure it's set to "Allow all the time" or "Allow management of all files." Sometimes, granting "Allow only while using the app" isn't enough for background processes or comprehensive file operations. Xiaomi devices, in particular, can have additional layers of permission management. You might need to explicitly grant "read and write storage" access, and sometimes, there's a separate permission for "Install unknown apps" or similar, which might be indirectly related if the app is trying to manage files in a way Android flags as sensitive. Double-check this, as it's a common oversight.
Specific Folder Access: If you're trying to save to an external SD card or a very specific folder, make sure TachiyomiSY has permission to write to that exact location. Android 11+ has introduced scoped storage, which can make writing to arbitrary directories challenging for apps. Consider trying to save the backup to the app's default internal storage directory first, if you've changed it.

2. Check Your Backup Location

The path you've chosen for your TachiyomiSY backups might be causing issues.

Internal vs. External Storage: Try switching your backup location. If you’re currently trying to save to an SD card, try saving to internal storage (e.g., Android/data/eu.kanade.tachiyomi.sy/files/backups or a custom folder in your internal documents). SD cards can have different permissions and sometimes present write errors.
Valid Path: Ensure the folder path you've selected for backups actually exists and is accessible. Sometimes, a typo or a deleted folder can lead to silent failures.

3. Optimize Battery & Background Settings (Re-check for Aggressive Killing)

You've already done this, but let's re-verify and even go a step further, especially on Xiaomi devices with MIUI.

App Battery Saver: Go to "Settings" -> "Apps" -> TachiyomiSY -> "Battery saver" (or similar). Set it to "No restrictions" or "Unrestricted." Don't just rely on the standard "optimized" setting.
Autostart: Ensure TachiyomiSY is enabled for "Autostart." While this primarily helps the app launch with the device, it can sometimes influence how the system treats its background processes.
Lock App in Recents: A unique Xiaomi/MIUI trick: Open TachiyomiSY, then go to your recent apps switcher. Find TachiyomiSY, press and hold its window, and look for a lock icon. Tap it to lock the app in memory. This prevents the system from aggressively killing it in the background, which is crucial for a lengthy backup process.
Deep Sleep/Doze Mode: Make sure TachiyomiSY is exempt from deep sleep or doze mode, if your device has such a setting.
Clear Cache: Sometimes, a corrupt cache can mess things up. Go to "Settings" -> "Apps" -> TachiyomiSY -> "Storage" -> "Clear cache." Do NOT clear data unless you're prepared to lose all your manga data (unless you have an old backup!).

4. Try an Older (or Newer) App Version (If Applicable)

Since the issue started after September and you're on version 1.12.0, it might be worth considering the app version.

Rollback (Carefully!): If you know the exact version that worked last September, you could try uninstalling the current version and installing an older APK. However, this is risky as newer database changes might not be compatible with older app versions, potentially corrupting your data. Only do this if you have an existing working backup from an older version.
Check for Updates: Conversely, there might be a newer version of TachiyomiSY available (even a pre-release or nightly build) that has fixed this bug. Check the official GitHub releases page for jobobby04/tachiyomisy.

5. Free Up Storage Space

While a 0-byte file typically points to permission issues rather than full storage, it’s still good practice to ensure you have ample free space. A full storage might prevent even the initial file allocation or cause other system instabilities.

6. Restart Your Device

The classic IT advice, but often effective! A simple reboot can clear temporary glitches, reset system processes, and re-establish proper app-system communication.

By diligently going through these steps, especially focusing on those tricky Xiaomi battery and permission settings, you should be able to get your manual backups in TachiyomiSY working correctly again, leading to that satisfying notification and a properly sized backup.bin file. Remember, persistence is key when dealing with Android quirks!

Tackling Auto Backup Woes: Getting Your Scheduled Backups Right

Beyond the manual backup frustrations, many of you, like jobobby04, are also struggling with TachiyomiSY's auto backup feature, finding it unreliable and happening at random intervals instead of the consistent schedule you've set. This isn't just an inconvenience; it completely undermines the purpose of automatic data protection. The very essence of auto backups is set-it-and-forget-it reliability, ensuring that even if you forget to manually back up, your precious manga library is still safe. When auto backups become erratic, it introduces a layer of anxiety, making you constantly wonder if your latest reading progress, new manga additions, or crucial settings are truly secure. This inconsistency often stems from similar root causes as manual backup failures, but with an added emphasis on background process management and system resource allocation. Your device’s operating system, particularly aggressive power management features found in custom Android skins like MIUI on the Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro, plays a massive role in whether TachiyomiSY is allowed to complete its scheduled tasks in the background. If the system decides to "optimize" or kill the app's process while it's attempting an auto backup, it will either fail entirely, result in a 0-byte file, or simply not trigger at all. Furthermore, the timing of these backups can be influenced by system events, network availability (if your backup process somehow relies on checking source data, though direct backups usually don't), and even the device's idle state. To truly fix these auto backup issues, we need to go beyond simply setting the frequency in the app and dive into ensuring the Android system gives TachiyomiSY the breathing room it needs to operate autonomously. We’ll be reinforcing the background settings we discussed earlier and exploring a few other tips to coerce your device into letting TachiyomiSY do its job reliably, giving you that much-needed peace of mind that your manga collection is continually protected, even when you're not actively thinking about it.

1. Revisit and Reinforce Background Process Settings

This is paramount for auto backups. The "Autostart" and "No restrictions" battery settings mentioned for manual backups are even more critical here.

Xiaomi Specifics (MIUI): On your Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro, go to "Settings" -> "Apps" -> "Manage apps" -> TachiyomiSY. Look for "Other permissions" or "App permissions" and ensure everything relevant to background activity (like "Display pop-up windows while running in the background" or "Permanent notification") is allowed, although these are less directly related to backup execution.
Battery Saver (Again!): Double-check "Battery saver" for TachiyomiSY. It absolutely must be "No restrictions." Sometimes system updates or even changing other settings can silently revert these.
App Lock (Crucial for MIUI): As mentioned, open TachiyomiSY, bring up your recent apps, press and hold the app's card, and tap the lock icon. This tells MIUI not to kill the app, which is a game-changer for background tasks like auto backups.

2. Set a Realistic Auto Backup Frequency and Time

While not a fix for failing backups, setting a more practical schedule can help troubleshooting.

Frequency: Instead of an extremely short interval, try setting it to "Every 24 hours" or "Every 3 days." This gives the system more leeway and ensures the app isn't constantly trying to trigger a backup, potentially hitting system limits.
Time of Day: If possible, set the backup time to when you know your phone is usually charging and idle (e.g., overnight). This reduces the chance of the system killing the process due to active use or low battery.

3. Ensure Adequate Storage During Auto Backup

Just like with manual backups, if the auto backup location somehow runs out of space, it will fail silently. While a 0-byte file often points to permissions, a full drive will definitely stop the process. Make sure your chosen backup directory has plenty of free space, especially if you have a massive manga library.

4. Check for System Updates (Android 12 Quirks)

You mentioned you haven't done any Android updates. While this means the issue isn't from a recent system change on your end, it's possible that Android 12 itself, or Xiaomi's implementation of it, has some inherent quirks that were perhaps patched in later Android 12 point releases or even Android 13/14. While upgrading your OS is a big step, it's worth noting that some system-level bugs affecting background processes can be resolved this way. However, always weigh the pros and cons of system updates.

5. Monitor and Observe

After applying these settings, don't just assume it's fixed.

Manual Trigger: Try manually triggering a backup immediately after adjusting settings to see if the core issue is resolved. If manual works, auto should follow.
Check Backup Folder: Regularly check your chosen backup folder to see if new backup.bin files are being created and if they have a non-0-byte size.
In-App Notifications: Pay attention to any in-app notifications related to backup completion or failure.

By combining the permission and battery optimization strategies with a mindful approach to auto backup settings and consistent monitoring, you can significantly improve the reliability of your TachiyomiSY automatic backups. It’s all about teaching your device that TachiyomiSY isn't just another app; it's an essential one that needs to complete its important background tasks without interference!

Advanced Tips and Best Practices for TachiyomiSY Backups

Now that we've tackled the immediate TachiyomiSY backup failures, let's talk about some advanced tips and best practices to ensure your manga library is not just backed up, but securely and efficiently maintained for the long haul. Because, let's be real, guys, losing your reading progress or entire collection is a nightmare we all want to avoid! Implementing these strategies will not only help prevent future backup issues but also streamline your overall manga management experience, giving you even greater peace of mind.

1. Regular Off-Device Backups

Don't rely solely on backups stored on your phone! While having a backup.bin file on your device is better than nothing, if your phone gets lost, damaged, or corrupted, that backup goes with it.

Cloud Storage: Regularly copy your backup.bin files to a cloud service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. This provides an off-site, easily accessible copy.
PC Transfer: Periodically transfer your backups to your computer. This gives you a physical copy that's independent of your mobile device.
Versioning: Consider keeping several recent backups (e.g., "backup_today.bin", "backup_lastweek.bin", "backup_lastmonth.bin"). This way, if a recent backup becomes corrupted, you have older, working versions to fall back on. This is a pro-tip for anyone dealing with critical data!

2. Understand Backup Scope (What's Included?)

It's crucial to understand what exactly your TachiyomiSY backup includes. Typically, these backups save your library information (manga list, read progress, categories, tracking details, app settings).

Does NOT include: Chapter downloads. If you've downloaded hundreds of chapters, these are not included in the backup.bin file. You'll need to re-download them after restoring a backup on a new device or fresh install. This is an important distinction to make, as many users mistakenly assume their entire downloaded library is saved.
Manga/Source IDs: Ensure you understand that the backup relies on the manga IDs from your sources. If a source changes its internal IDs or if you migrate to a completely different fork/app that uses different database structures, restoring might not be perfect. Sticking to TachiyomiSY and its official extensions ensures better compatibility.

3. Keep Your App and System Updated (With Caution)

While we mentioned avoiding updates when troubleshooting a new issue, keeping your TachiyomiSY app reasonably up-to-date is generally good practice.

App Updates: Newer versions often come with bug fixes, performance improvements, and sometimes even new backup features or stability enhancements. Always check the changelog before updating.
System Updates: Android system updates (like moving from Android 12 to 13) can sometimes introduce new bugs (like the ones we're fixing!) but also often patch existing ones, especially related to storage permissions and background processes. Approach system updates with caution, especially if your device has a history of aggressive battery management. It's often a good idea to wait a week or two after an update is released to see if other users report major issues.

4. Perform a "Test Restore" (If You Can)

If you're particularly worried about your backups, and have a spare device or emulator, try performing a test restore.

How: Install TachiyomiSY on a fresh device/emulator, transfer your backup.bin file, and try restoring it. This is the ultimate verification that your backup is indeed valid and functional. If it restores successfully, you know your backup strategy is solid!

5. Stay Informed and Engage with the Community

The TachiyomiSY community is a fantastic resource.

GitHub/Discord: Keep an eye on the official GitHub repository (jobobby04/tachiyomisy) for issues, discussions, and releases. Join Discord servers related to TachiyomiSY or Mihon (the new name for the original Tachiyomi) – often, other users have encountered and solved similar problems. This is exactly where issues like the 0-byte backup file are discussed and potentially hot-fixed.

By integrating these best practices into your routine, you're not just fixing a backup problem; you're building a resilient and future-proof system for your entire digital manga collection. It's about empowering yourself to enjoy your reading without the constant worry of losing all that hard-earned progress.

What to Do If All Else Fails: Community & Reporting

Alright, guys, you've tried all the troubleshooting steps for your TachiyomiSY manual backup and auto backup issues, meticulously checked permissions, tweaked battery settings, and even explored advanced options, but your backups are still failing, giving you that dreaded 0-byte backup.bin file or simply refusing to run. Don't throw your phone across the room just yet! It's incredibly frustrating when you've put in the effort and the problem persists, but sometimes, the issue isn't something you can fix with local settings. At this point, it’s time to lean on the broader community and consider reporting the issue to the developers. You’ve gathered crucial information through your troubleshooting journey, and that data becomes incredibly valuable for pinpointing more obscure bugs or system-specific conflicts.

1. Gather All Your Information

Before reaching out, consolidate everything you know:

App ID and Version: (eu.kanade.tachiyomi.sy, 1.12.0)
Android Version: (12)
Device Brand and Model: (Xiaomi, Redmi K20 Pro)
WebView Version: (Android System WebView 143.0.7499.34)
Steps You've Taken: List all the troubleshooting steps you've already tried (permissions, battery optimizations, app lock, changing backup location, etc.). This prevents redundant suggestions.
Specific Symptoms: Reiterate the 0-byte file, no notification, and random auto backups.
Crash Logs: Include any relevant snippets from the crash logs, like the SQLite entries or the Chromium error (Seed missing signature). These logs, while not showing an explicit "backup failed" error, provide context to developers about what the app was doing when the failure occurred.

2. Search Existing Issues on GitHub

The TachiyomiSY project, like many open-source projects, uses GitHub for issue tracking.

Search the Repository: Go to github.com/jobobby04/tachiyomisy/issues. Use keywords like "backup," "0-byte," "Android 12 Xiaomi," "Redmi K20 Pro." There's a good chance someone else might have reported a similar issue, or there might even be an existing solution or workaround. You already mentioned you've searched existing issues, which is a great start!

3. Create a New Issue on GitHub

If you can't find an existing issue that perfectly matches yours, it's time to open a new one.

Be Detailed: Fill out the issue template completely. Provide all the information you gathered above. The more context you provide, the easier it is for developers to diagnose the problem.
Attach Images: If you have screenshots (like the 0-byte file proof or your settings), attach them. Visual evidence is incredibly helpful.
Be Patient: Remember, TachiyomiSY is often a community-driven project. Developers are often volunteers, so be patient for a response. They appreciate clear, concise, and detailed bug reports.

4. Engage with the Community (Discord)

Many open-source projects have active Discord communities.

Join the Server: Look for the official Discord server link for TachiyomiSY or its successor, Mihon.
Relevant Channels: Find a "help" or "troubleshooting" channel. Explain your issue, mentioning your device and Android version. Other users might have encountered the same problem and found a community-driven solution that hasn't made it to official documentation yet. They might also offer immediate workarounds or insights specific to Xiaomi devices.

By becoming an active part of the solution and providing comprehensive details, you not only increase the chances of getting your own TachiyomiSY backup problem resolved but also contribute valuable information that helps improve the app for everyone else. Sometimes, it takes a collective effort to squash those stubborn bugs!

Conclusion: Safeguarding Your Digital Manga Journey

Whew! We've covered a lot of ground today, guys, diving deep into the frustrating world of TachiyomiSY backup failures and equipping you with a comprehensive toolkit to tackle those pesky manual and auto backup issues. From the initial confusion of a 0-byte backup.bin file to the unpredictable nature of auto backups on devices like your Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro running Android 12, we've explored the most common culprits and, more importantly, provided actionable, step-by-step solutions. We've seen how critical storage permissions are, especially with the tighter security of newer Android versions, and how aggressively some OEM skins, particularly MIUI, can manage background processes, often prematurely terminating essential tasks like your scheduled TachiyomiSY backups. Re-checking and reinforcing your battery optimization settings, locking the app in recent memory on Xiaomi devices, and ensuring your chosen backup location is both valid and accessible are all crucial pieces of this puzzle. Beyond just fixing the immediate problem, we've also touched upon invaluable best practices for maintaining a robust backup strategy, advocating for off-device storage, understanding what your backup.bin file truly saves, and the importance of staying engaged with the vibrant TachiyomiSY community. Remember, your manga library isn't just a collection of files; it's a testament to your reading journey, filled with countless hours of enjoyment and discovery. Protecting it should be a top priority. By applying the insights and solutions shared in this article, you're not just troubleshooting a bug; you're taking proactive steps to safeguard your entire digital manga experience, ensuring that your progress, your beloved titles, and your personalized settings are always secure. So go forth, manga enthusiasts, armed with knowledge and confidence, and let's get those TachiyomiSY backups working flawlessly! Your next epic manga adventure awaits, knowing your library is safe and sound.