Skein
Add torrents from magnet links or .torrent files, watch videos while they download, follow RSS feeds, and manage every file, peer and tracker. Skein contains no content and no search: it downloads only what you give it.
Need help? Email support@soumyamahunt.com. Please include your device model, iOS version and Skein version if something isn't working.
Install
Skein isn't on the App Store. It's notarized by Apple and distributed through AltStore PAL, which is available where Apple allows alternative app marketplaces (such as the European Union).
- Install AltStore PAL from altstore.io.
- In AltStore PAL, go to Sources › + and add
https://raw.githubusercontent.com/SwiftyLab/Skein/main/AltStore/source.json - Open Skein in that source and install it. Updates appear in AltStore's My Apps tab.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add a torrent?
Tap + and paste a magnet link, or open a magnet link or .torrent file in Safari, Files or Mail and choose Skein. The share sheet works too.
Where are my downloads?
In the Files app, under On My iPhone (or On My iPad) › Skein, where you can open, share, move or delete them like any other file. On a Mac, they also appear in Finder when your device is connected. You can open a torrent in Skein to see its files and play videos right from there.
Files in that folder are deleted along with the app, so move anything you want to keep elsewhere first. Moving or renaming a file while its torrent is still in Skein stops Skein from seeding it.
Why do downloads stop when I leave the app?
iOS limits what apps can do in the background. Before you leave, use the ⋯ menu to ask iOS to keep active transfers going; iOS still decides for how long, so large downloads finish fastest with Skein open. If you allow notifications, Skein tells you when a download completes.
Can I watch a video before it finishes?
Yes. Open the torrent and play the file: Skein fetches pieces in playback order, and plays formats like MKV and AVI. If playback pauses, it's waiting for the next pieces to arrive.
Why does Skein ask for Local Network access?
To find peers on the same network as you (Local Service Discovery) and to set up port forwarding on your router (UPnP and NAT-PMP), which helps other peers connect to you. You can turn these off under ⋯ › Settings › Peer discovery, or deny access in Settings › Privacy & Security › Local Network.
Is using Skein legal?
BitTorrent is a widely used way to share large files, such as Linux distributions. Only download and share files you have the right to. You are responsible for what you download and share, and other peers can see your IP address while you do (see the Privacy Policy).
Support
Skein is free, with no ads and no tracking. If it's useful to you, you can support my apps on Patreon. It helps cover the developer account and keeps them maintained.