Local processing and source safety
Takeout Rescue does not require the photo library to become an upload. The app reads source archives or an extracted folder and writes to a separate destination so the original evidence remains available for another attempt.
License and update requests do not include filenames, media contents, embedded coordinates or repair reports.
What a successful result means
A verified result means the app wrote a supported field and read that field back. It does not mean missing information was invented or every destination application will display every metadata standard in the same way.
The final report separates repaired, already healthy, unmatched, unsupported and failed items so you can review limits before import.
Are my photos or GPS coordinates uploaded?
No. Media, sidecars, coordinates and repair reports are processed locally. Network access is used for license status, downloads and update checks.
Do I need to extract the Takeout ZIP files first?
No. Select all numbered ZIP parts directly. An extracted Google Photos folder is also supported.
Why do exported photos show the download date?
The filesystem creation date can be assigned during download or extraction even when an embedded capture date remains. Google-managed edits may also be stored in supplemental JSON. The destination application determines which field appears in its timeline.
Does Takeout Rescue modify the source?
No. Source archives and extracted folders are read-only. Repaired files are written to a separate output directory, and existing destination files are not overwritten.
How much can I repair before purchasing?
Each device receives one free export of up to 10 unique primary media files. Generated companion files and album links may be included so you can inspect the real repaired result before choosing a license.
Which platforms are supported?
64-bit Windows 10 and Windows 11 plus a notarized universal macOS app for Intel and Apple silicon.
How much disk space is required?
Keep space for the original ZIP downloads and the separate repaired output. The app reports compressed size, expanded size, expected temporary peak and available destination space during preflight.
Are similar photos deleted as duplicates?
No. Automatic deduplication is limited to exact content hashes. Edited or merely similar files remain separate.
Can every Live Photo be rebuilt?
No. Reliable pairs use existing identifiers or other unambiguous evidence. A missing Apple MakerNote identifier is not invented.
What happens when one file is broken?
The failure is isolated and reported so the rest of the library can continue when safe. A corrupt ZIP entry fails archive integrity preflight.