Help & answers.
A quiet, private way to track the hours on every stylus and cartridge. Here's how it works, and how to reach us if something isn't right.
Your data & privacy
Where is my data stored?
On your iPhone. Your setup, photos, sessions, and history live on your device, and — if you use iCloud — sync privately across your own Apple devices. We have no server and can't see your data.
Do I need an account?
No. Cartridge Hours has no login and no account. Add a turntable and cartridge and you're ready.
Sync & backup
How do I see my data on another device?
Sign in to the same Apple ID on both devices and make sure iCloud is enabled for Cartridge Hours in Settings. Your data then syncs automatically through your private iCloud.
It isn't syncing to my other device.
Try these, in order:
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Confirm both devices use the same Apple ID.
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In Settings, check that iCloud (and iCloud Drive) is on for Cartridge Hours.
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Make sure both devices have a network connection; sync can take a moment.
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Open the app on both devices and leave it in the foreground briefly.
Will I lose my data if I delete the app?
If iCloud is on, your data is kept in your private iCloud and can return when you reinstall and sign in. If iCloud is off, data lives only on that device and is removed with the app. We recommend keeping iCloud on.
Using the app
How does the timer work?
Tap the center button on the Now screen to start a session on the active stylus; tap again to stop. Time is counted to the minute and added to that stylus's total. A Live Activity shows the running session on your Lock Screen and Dynamic Island, so you can stop it without opening the app.
Can I start it hands-free?
Yes. Use Siri or the Shortcuts app with "Start listening" / "Stop listening" to control the timer for your active stylus — handy when the record's already spinning.
How does "rated life" work?
Enter the manufacturer's rated hours for a stylus, and the app shows how much of that reference you've used, with a gentle nudge as you approach it. You enter the rating; the app reports time — it does not diagnose stylus condition. Treat it as a reminder to inspect, not a verdict.
How do I track replacement styli and multiple cartridges?
Open Setup to see your turntable → tonearm → cartridge → stylus. Add cartridges and install replacement styli; each keeps its own hours. When you fit a new stylus, use "Install stylus" so hours start fresh for that one.
How do I log cleaning or alignment?
Add a maintenance event (cleaning, alignment, stylus or cartridge change) from the stylus's detail. It appears in your history with the date.
How do I export my history?
Open Settings and choose "Export listening history" to share or save a copy of your data.
Contact
Didn't find your answer? We read every message and usually reply within two business days.
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