Step by Step Instruction
Make a backup in iTunes
QD Chat Reader retrieves the chat database from an iTunes Backup.
Make an
unencrypted backup from your mobile device.
This may take a while. Don't forget to switch on the encryption after all.
Here a more detailed description:
unencrypted backup
Run QD Chat Reader and seek database
The QD Chat Reader assists you finding the chat database in your iTunes backup.
Run QD Chat Reader.
A: Open database or search for a new one
The last selected database will be opened automatically. You can select any other existing database with the button
"Select Chat DB" .

In case you never have searched for a database before, you can open the Search & Scan dialog with
"Scan Backup..." .
Search through iTunes Backup for a new database
- Use "Search in..." to select the location of your backup. You can also select the "iTunes default" folder.
- Let QD Chat Reader make a "Database scan" in your backup. Once it found a chat database, it will be listed in the table below. You can wait until the scan ends automatically, or "Stop scanning!" manually.
- Pick a database from the list by clicking on it.
- Save this database with "Save as..." at a new location, e.g. "My Documents". Otherwise you won't be able to read the chats after backup encryption is switched on again.
- You may use the found database directly by click on "Use selected". But it is recommended to save it to a copy by "Save as...". This will finally close the dialog and you return to the main window of QD Chat Reader.
B: Select the chat partner
Pick a chat partner from the list
"Chat Partners". You will now read the chat with this person.
C: Change ID to name

Initially, the chat partner list shows ID number instead of names. Once you identified a chat partner, you can enter his/her real or nick name in the field
"Chat with:". This will be used in the future instead of the ID.
D: Save the chat to a file
"Save Chat..." allows to save the shown chat in a text file. You can open this file in a text editor or spreadsheet program.
Turn the backup encrytion back on in iTunes!
Switch on again the backup encryption in iTunes! Once you saved the database with
"Save as..." you will be able to read the chats at any time.