Metadata updates in ZPS X are a process in which the metadata of files stored in the Catalog is renewed, repaired, or synchronized. A photo file’s metadata is information inside of it that describes the photo’s dimensions, when it was taken, camera information, exposure settings, picture rotation, or other important details. Metadata updates are run whenever a new version brings a new, improved way of interpreting metadata that makes it necessary to re-read the metadata and re-verify its correctness.
The metadata information that is read is stored in the Catalog and the program’s cache. The program then uses it to enable the user to search through files, load them quickly, and display file information.
When the update process begins, the user is informed of this via a notification under the bell icon in the program’s top bar. The user can press a button in the notification to pause the metadata update process. If a metadata update is paused, it is unpaused automatically upon the next restart of the program.