INPROGRESS File Extension

Time Machine Backup Progress Format
- File Type inprogress
- Developer Apple
- Popularity
- Application Time Machine
- Category Temporary Files
- Format Binary
What is a INPROGRESS file?
Time Machine Backup Progress Format, identified by the INPROGRESS extension, is a Temporary Files type and includes 241 files.
With the creation of the Time Machine Backup Progress Format (INPROGRESS), Apple introduced file format along with 72 programs built for their use.
INPROGRESS files are supported by Mac OS. You can create a INPROGRESS file using one of 3 programs, for example Time Machine, macOS and macOS X.
How to open a INPROGRESS file?
The most common reason why a INPROGRESS file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
The most popular programs for working with INPROGRESS files are Time Machine, macOS and macOS X. To get the latest version of Time Machine, open the Apple website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
Once setup is done, your operating system should assign Time Machine as the default app for INPROGRESS files.
Make Time Machine the default INPROGRESS viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your INPROGRESS file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose Time Machine as the application to associate with your INPROGRESS file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired INPROGRESS file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Scroll down to the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, "Recommended Programs" will be selected;
- In this menu, choose "All Programs" and navigate to Time Machine. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a INPROGRESS file?
To edit INPROGRESS files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify temporary files. Online INPROGRESS editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Time Machine Backup Progress Format.
List of Top INPROGRESS editors 2026
Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended INPROGRESS editors.
| INPROGRESS Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time Machine | Apple | Mac OS | 4.8 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
Finding answers to INPROGRESS file problems
If you encounter issues with INPROGRESS files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.
What are the signs that my INPROGRESS file is damaged?
Corrupted INPROGRESS temporary files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Poor performance when editing a file in Time Machine;
- Opening or processing the file in Time Machine or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the INPROGRESS file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
Why does Time Machine quit or crash unexpectedly?
Time Machine crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Apple products.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What methods can be used to repair a damaged INPROGRESS file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged INPROGRESS file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged temporary files.




