Common questions about alto.index
What is alto.index?
alto.index is a macOS app that connects your Apple apps (Notes, Mail, Messages, Safari, and more) and exports their content as markdown files. This makes your data instantly accessible to AI tools like Claude.
How does alto.index work?
alto.index connects directly to the databases used by Apple's native apps on your Mac. It reads your data, converts it to markdown format, and saves it to a local folder on your computer. The app runs in the background and continuously syncs new content.
Is my data secure?
Yes! alto.index works entirely on your local machine. Your data never leaves your computer, and we don't have access to any of your content. All processing happens locally on your Mac.
Where are my files stored?
In the folder you pick when you set up alto.index, inside a folder named alto-index. Each app has its own subfolder (notes, mail, messages and so on).
Can I use the exported files with AI tools?
Yes! The markdown files are perfect for use with AI tools like Claude, ChatGPT, or any other tool that accepts text input. You can reference your notes, emails, and messages in your AI conversations.
Does alto.index support attachments?
Yes, alto.index preserves attachments from Apple Notes and other apps. Images and files are exported alongside your markdown files in organized folders.
How often does alto.index sync?
alto.index runs in the background and checks for new content every few minutes. You can also trigger a manual sync at any time from the app.
What macOS version do I need?
alto.index requires macOS 15 (Sequoia) or later.
Can I exclude certain content from syncing?
Yes. Tick the folders and notes from Apple Notes, the mailboxes from Mail, the lists from Reminders, the calendars from Calendar, and the same for Messages, Bear, Contacts, Voice Memos, bookmarks, Books, Podcasts, Kindle and Screen Time. Anything new exports on its own unless you untick it.
What is free, and what does it cost?
Bear, Voice Memos, Podcasts, Screen Time and Contacts are free with no limit. Every other source is free to try, then a one-time purchase: a single connection, any three, or all of them. All of them includes every source we add later, at no extra cost. See pricing.
How do I get support?
You can reach our support team at [email protected]. We typically respond within 24 hours.