FAQ

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 reads the data Apple’s apps keep on your Mac, converts it to markdown, and saves it to a folder on your computer. It keeps your files current until you quit it, even with the window closed.

Is my data secure?

Yes. Alto Index works entirely on your Mac. 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 work 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?

Changes are written the moment you make them. You can also sync at any time from a source’s card.

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. Phone Calls, Safari History and Screenshots have a list too: choose the people, sites and months that sync. 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 us at altoindex@tinysend.com, or from inside the app. See support.