How to export data from Minimalist

You can export your Minimalist data to keep a human readable reference, serve as an unencrypted backup, migrate to a different iCloud account, or transfer data to a different application. Here's what you'll need to do.

Before we begin

People export data to serve a number of different purposes:

  • Keeping a human readable copy for reference.
  • Serving as a full backup to be restored in an emergency.
  • Migrating data to a different iCloud account.
  • Transferring data to a different application:
    • We hope you'll stay with us, but if you're going to leave anyhow, we'd like to make it as easy as possible.

Each of these has it's own specific needs which no single export format can fully satisfy. There are going to be tradeoffs!

We've designed Minimalist's export formats with these purposes in mind. As a result, each format is a combination of human readable AND machine readable data.

We understand it's not perfect. However we truly believe it's the best possible balance to serve the greatest number of people. Hopefully you'll agree!

Now on to the steps!

Step 1: Export your data

Please remember exported data is NOT encrypted. Anyone with access to these files can read them. Please keep them safe!

  • Open Minimalist.
  • Select the gear icon to open Settings.
  • Select Export Items.
  • Select the app and file format you'd like to export to:
    • Select Minimalist -> .json for unencrypted backups or migrating to a different iCloud account.
    • Select Minimalist -> .csv for human readable reference.
    • Select iCloud Keychain (Safari) -> .csv to transfer login data to iCloud Keychain (Safari).
  • Choose a location:
    • This is the directory where both the exported data file and all attachment data will be saved to.
  • Select Start Export.

Step 2: Review the exported files

We've gone to great lengths to ensure the export feature in Minimalist is rock-solid.

However it's still a good idea to review the exported files to make sure they contain the information you expect and are suitable for your purposes.

Please reach out to us at hello@minimalistpassword.com if you run into any trouble. We'll be happy to help!

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