okay, i got it, i'll call it. so, that will ensure that settings are loaded before calling the static function?

It actually says:
This function is called automatically from QSettings's destructor and by the event loop at regular intervals, so you normally don't need to call it yourself.

Therefore, I would suggest to call it. It will not hurt.

If the destructor is actually called in your case, you are the only one able to answer. The case with the regular calls by the event loop leaves evetuallities open, but the intetional call will make sure that the routine is called.

no i didn't use that. the docs says it's called automatically so why do i need to call it? should i, anyways?

Did you use QSettings sync?