Getting started with the desktop app

The desktop app reads a WhatsApp backup from your Android phone and converts it on your computer. Nothing from the backup is uploaded.

1. Install the app from the Download page and sign in. The sign-in opens your browser; the app links itself to your account as a device.
2. Connect your phone with USB debugging enabled, or point the app at a backup folder you copied yourself (msgstore.db plus the Media folder).
3. Pick chats and a format (HTML, TXT, CSV, XLSX or JSON depending on your plan), then export. Media is included when your plan allows it.
4. Exports land in your Downloads/ThreadVault folder; the app opens it when the export finishes.

Keeping it working

• The app checks in with your account about once an hour. If you see "This client is out of date", install the latest version — older versions are blocked for security fixes.
• Each install counts as a device on your plan. Revoke old computers from Account → Devices in the portal.
• Signed out unexpectedly? Someone revoked the session from the portal, or your password changed. Sign in again.