Can you archive or transfer text messages to a computer?

Question

Level 1

5 points

Can you archive or transfer text messages to a computer?

I Have four months of text messages from a particular person that I want to save onto my computer if possible. The message file has gotten so large that it's taking a lot of space on my phone, and I just can't bring myself to delete the messages (messages are from a loved one and I don't want to ever lose them). Is there a way to transfer the message file to my computer so that I can print the messages out if needed? I know I can screen-shot them and send the screen-shots to myself, but I'm just wondering if there's an easier, more convenient way to go about this.

Thanks!

iPhone 6 Plus, iOS 9.3.1

Posted on Apr 19, 2016 12:42 PM

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Answer 1

deggie

Level 10

167,543 points

Apr 19, 2016 12:45 PM in response to nsupanda

If you have a Mac then try the application Phoneview on your computer, I use it and can vouch for it. If you have a PC try Touchcopy. Both cost money but I have both and they are well worth the cost.

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Answer 2

Apr 19, 2016 1:59 PM in response to nsupanda

nsupanda,

I use a product called iMazing (a search will find the home and download page), this is available for both OS X and Windows, for managing my iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch data that's not specifically addressed by native iTunes backups

As with the options mentioned by @deggie it will cost money for the full version but they do offer a 15 day free trail with limitations on functionality.

The limitations for the 15 day trail are as follows :

Dataset	Nb of items
Media	20
Photos	20
Messages	10
Contacts	10
Call History	5
Notes	5
Voicemail	5
Voice Memos	5

So you could try it to see if it would meet your needs.

Hope this helps.

Cheers

AF

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Answer 3

Apr 19, 2016 4:27 PM in response to nsupanda

I'll second the recommendation for PhoneView. I especially like the pdf format offered. Like you, I have a sentimental attachment to some of my text conversations. The pdf makes a nicely readable document.

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