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# Introduction

ChatLab is a free, open-source, local-first chat analysis app.

In the digital era, chat histories are no longer just plain text. They carry a decade of social connections, precious voice notes from loved ones, and serve as the emotional memory we keep in the digital world.

ChatLab exists to **help every user safely analyze and revisit their own social memories.**

## How to use

To analyze your chat history, you only need two steps:

1. Export your chat records
2. Import your chat records

Since each app exports differently, see [Export Chat Records](./usage/how-to-export.md) for detailed steps.

## Next steps

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If you run into import or AI issues, check [Troubleshooting](./usage/troubleshooting.md).

If your exported format isn't supported yet, see the [AI Conversion Guide](./standard/ai-converter.md).

If you're a developer who supports exporting from other chat apps, you're welcome to align with the [Chat Data Exchange Standard](./standard/chatlab-format.md).

For any other questions, join the community: [Community](./other/community.md)
