Things 3.23 Brings Long-Requested Overhaul of Repeating To-Dos

Cultured Code introduced Things 3.23, a major update to the productivity app that addresses user demand for improvements to repeating to-do features. Users have long asked for enhancements to how repeating tasks work, and Things 3.23 aims to meet those expectations while also adding smaller refinements.

One key addition is the ability to mark repeating to-dos as completed early. Previously, repeating tasks displayed a unique checkbox, but completing them early was not possible. Now, users can tick the box just like any other task, and the app will generate the next iteration based on the original rule.

Another important change allows users to make exceptions or update the recurrence rule for fixed-schedule repeating to-dos. When a fixed-schedule task is moved to a new date, users can now choose to create an exception for that specific instance, leaving the rest of the schedule intact. Alternatively, they can update the recurrence pattern itself, causing the task to repeat based on the new schedule moving forward.

For to-dos that repeat based on time after completion rather than a fixed schedule, the update simplifies the rescheduling process. Instead of prompting the user to choose between making an exception or updating the rule, the task simply moves to the new date without requiring any additional input.

The update also includes a new "Create Next Copy" feature. Users can now select "Repeat" and then "Create Next Copy," allowing them to get a head start on a task or project before its scheduled date. This feature enables users to add notes or complete checklist items in advance.

To visually differentiate generated copies of repeating to-dos, the update adds a small grey repeat icon to the generated tasks. This visual cue helps users quickly identify recurring items in their task list.

The setup dialog for creating repeating to-dos has also been redesigned, featuring an updated interface with easier date selection options. Additionally, users can now pause, resume, or stop multiple repeating to-dos simultaneously using bulk actions.

Under the hood, Things 3.23 adopts a unified codebase for handling to-dos across the Mac, iPadOS, and iOS platforms. This change ensures a consistent experience when viewing and editing tasks within lists or when expanded. The app's existing feature that gathers all repeating to-dos and projects, accessible via the "Repeating" search term, remains intact.

Things 3.23 is now available as a free update on the App Store for Mac, iPad, iPhone, and Vision Pro users. To use the update, users need to be running macOS 13.3, iOS and iPadOS 16.4, watchOS 9.1, or newer.