SAI Ver.1 Critical Bug Fix

Danger

CRITICAL UPDATE REQUIRED: Users running SAI Ver.1.2.5 or earlier versions must update immediately to prevent potential data loss.

Overview

A critical bug was discovered in Paint Tool SAI Version 1.2.5 and earlier that could cause data loss during file saving operations in rare circumstances. This issue has been addressed in Ver.1.2.6-Beta.3.

Affected Versions

The following versions are affected:

  • SAI Ver.1.2.5

  • SAI Ver.1.2.4

  • SAI Ver.1.2.3

  • All earlier versions

Important

If you are using any of the above versions, please update to Ver.1.2.6-Beta.3 immediately.

What Is the Bug?

The bug can occur during the file saving process when:

  • Saving to a network drive with unstable connection

  • Saving very large files (100+ layers)

  • System resources are constrained during save operation

In these rare cases, the save operation could fail silently or produce a corrupted file without proper error notification.

Symptoms

  • Files appear to save successfully but are corrupted when reopened

  • Unexpected file size (significantly smaller than expected)

  • Error messages when opening previously saved files

  • Loss of layer data or canvas content

How to Update

Step 1: Backup Your Work

Before updating, backup all your current projects:

  1. Locate your SAI installation folder

  2. Copy all .sai and .psd files to a safe location

  3. Export important brushes and materials

Step 2: Download the Update

  1. Visit the official SYSTEMAX website

  2. Download Ver.1.2.6-Beta.3

  3. Save the file to an accessible location

Step 3: Install the Update

  1. Close Paint Tool SAI completely

  2. Extract the new version to a new folder (do not overwrite the old version initially)

  3. Copy your custom brushes and settings from the old installation

  4. Test the new version with your backed-up files

  5. Once verified working, you may remove the old installation

Verification

To verify your version after updating:

  1. Launch Paint Tool SAI

  2. Go to Help → About

  3. Confirm the version shows Ver.1.2.6-Beta.3 or later

Tip

Always keep a backup copy of your brush textures and custom settings before any update.

Prevention Tips

To minimize data loss risks:

  • Save frequently - Enable autosave if available

  • Save locally first - Avoid saving directly to network drives

  • Keep backups - Maintain multiple backup copies of important work

  • Monitor disk space - Ensure adequate free space on your save drive