Backups and exports
A backup packs your diary data and media files into a single compressed file, which you can use to restore app data or move to a new device.
- Exports are for reading your entries in other apps or a browser and cannot replace a backup. Create a backup before changing devices or reinstalling the app.
Create and keep a backup
Create a backup with one tap using the app's backup feature. Backup files are saved on your device, and you can also connect WebDAV, S3-compatible storage, or other cloud storage to keep backups in storage you own.
- Check that your device has enough free storage before you begin.
- Keep another copy outside your device, for example in connected WebDAV or S3-compatible storage.
Encryption key
Diary data in a backup always stays encrypted, and backups don't include the encryption key by default. If a backup can't be decrypted automatically when you restore it, you'll be asked for the encryption key used when it was created. If the backup doesn't include the key and that key has been lost, the backup can't be restored.
- Before changing devices, copy your current key from Database Encryption Key in the app's settings and store it somewhere safe, such as a password manager.
- You can also turn on Include Encryption Key when creating a backup, so you won't need to enter the key when restoring. However, anyone with that file can read your diary, so use this only for a full data migration and keep the file safe.
Restore and migrate
When changing devices, first create a backup on your old device and save your encryption key. Then install AIDiary on the new device, choose the local backup file or get it from connected cloud storage, and follow the on-screen instructions to restore. You can also migrate between HarmonyOS, Android, and iOS.
- Before restoring, read the in-app notice about how existing data is handled. If the new device already has entries, back them up first.
- After restoring, check that your diary text and media are complete before clearing data from your old device.