Mac MessagesUser-selected folder containing chat.db; present WAL and SHM companions are snapshotted with it.
Finder backupUnencrypted local iPhone or iPad backup with readable Manifest metadata and an SMS database payload.
Encrypted backupNot supported in version 1.0. MessageLedger does not ask for or process backup passwords.
iCloud-only historyNot accessed directly. Content must be present in the local source you select.
AttachmentsCopied only when the referenced payload is present and readable. Otherwise labeled “Referenced but missing.”

Context coverage

Version 1.0 normalizes plain text, direction, service, timestamps, time-zone identity, replies, edited or unsent states, reactions, and attachment references when the selected schema exposes them. Unknown rich payloads are labeled as unsupported rather than silently removed.

Why compatibility can change

Apple can change private database structure between operating-system releases. MessageLedger detects tables and columns before querying. A source with missing required structure produces a diagnostic error. Recheck this page and the release notes before using a new major macOS version for important exports.

Not affiliated with Apple

MessageLedger is independent software from Trieflow LLC and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Apple. Apple, iMessage, Messages, iPhone, iPad, Finder, and macOS are trademarks of Apple Inc.