Retro Journal

Retro Journal is a free and open-source desktop application for personal journaling, designed to replicate the experience of 1980s and 1990s computers. The software operates entirely offline on Windows, Mac, and Linux, ensuring thoughts remain on the local machine. It includes AES-256 encryption options and allows export of entries to standard formats such as DOC, ODT, TXT, or MD. Built with Electron, its source code is available on GitHub under the GPLv3 license. Hamilton Midway Enterprises LLC is the entity behind the project.

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• Interactive browser-based demo. Retro Journal incorporates a live demo accessible from the official website. This functionality allows users to test the interface and writing mechanics without installing the application, providing a complete preview of the aesthetics and customization options.
• Completely offline operation. The application requires no internet connection for its core functionality. All content, including entries and settings, is stored exclusively on the local hard drive, preventing unauthorized synchronization or remote access to personal data.
• AES-256 journal encryption. For users requiring an additional privacy layer, the tool offers the option to encrypt individual files or entire journals using the AES-256 standard. This encryption protects content against unauthorized access in case of device loss or theft.
• Export to multiple file formats. Entries can be saved in DOC, ODT, TXT, and MD formats. This feature ensures compatibility with modern word processors and long-term archiving systems, avoiding dependency on a single proprietary format.
• CRT monitor simulation and display modes. The software includes visual effects replicating cathode-ray tube monitors, such as scan lines and green or amber phosphor. It also incorporates an e-ink mode that reduces contrast and eye strain in bright environments.
• Decade-based aesthetic customization. Retro Journal allows color palette and typography changes to simulate different eras of personal computing, including presets for the early 80s, the DOS era, or the style of early Macintosh computers.
• Automatic and manual saving with no cloud involvement. The program performs periodic automatic saves of text being edited, always to local storage. It also provides manual save options, with no data ever uploaded to third-party services.
• Native Windows, Mac, and Linux compatibility. Developed on Electron, the application distributes as executable binaries for all three major operating systems. Behavior and interface are identical across all platforms.
• Source code availability on GitHub. All Retro Journal code is public and accessible through the GitHub platform. Developers and advanced users can review, modify, and contribute to the project under GPLv3 license terms.
• Installers for current architectures. Specific installation packages are provided for Windows (NSIS installer), macOS (DMG), and Linux (AppImage, deb, and rpm). Binaries are compiled for 64-bit systems, ensuring compatibility with modern hardware.
• Multiple journal creation and management. The interface allows organizing entries into separate journals, each with its own visual and encryption settings. This structure helps separate personal, professional, or creative writing projects.
• Entry revision history. Each time an entry is modified and saved, Retro Journal retains previous versions if enabled by the user. This functionality allows recovery of accidentally deleted text or review of changes made days or weeks earlier.

Hamilton Midway Enterprises LLC began development of Retro Journal in 2023. The first stable version was released in early 2024, responding to demand for simple, offline desktop applications. The programming language used is JavaScript, along with HTML and CSS for the interface, running on the Electron framework.

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