← Back to all guidesUpdated Sep 28, 2026
Telegram's full export is a Desktop-only feature. The mobile app does not include it. From Telegram Desktop you can choose which chats to include, which media to include, and HTML vs JSON format. This guide covers the setup, what is in the archive, and how to store it.
Written by Charles
Export at a glance
Request method
In-product settings
Archive format
HTML, JSON, MediaFiles
Sensitivity
Medium: communications, purchase records
Primary use
Backup: preserve a copy for yourself
Archive file map
Top-level structure of the export. Each entry is a file or directory with its format badge and what it contains.
chats/JSONPer-chat message history with timestamps, sender IDs, and message text
photos/MediaFilesPhotos you sent or received: included when "Photos" category is selected
videos/MediaFilesVideos you sent or received: included when "Videos" category is selected
contacts.jsonJSONYour Telegram contacts list
sessions.jsonJSONActive and recent login sessions
messages.htmlHTMLHuman-readable chat views: HTML export option
What Telegram knows about you
- Private chats and group chats
- Media files you sent or received
- Contacts and usernames
- Stickers and bots you use
- Session data and account metadata
Why use Telegram Desktop for the export
Telegram Desktop gives you the export controls that mobile does not. You can choose which chats to include, which media to include, and whether to export as HTML or JSON.
How to request the export
- Open Telegram Desktop and sign in.
- Go to Settings.
- Open Advanced.
- Choose Export Telegram Data.
- Select the categories and date range you want.
- Choose HTML for readability or JSON for archiving.
- Start the export and wait for it to finish.
What is inside the archive
- Chats/: your message history
- Photos/ and Videos/: media exports
- Contacts.json: your contacts list
- Sessions.json: login sessions
- Messages HTML files: readable chat views
What to do after downloading
- Keep the export in a clearly labeled folder
- Use encrypted storage if the chats are sensitive
- Do not assume deleted messages are recoverable
Quick version
If you want the short checklist instead of the full guide, use the service page.
FAQ
Can I do this on mobile?
The full export works best on Telegram Desktop.
Should I choose HTML or JSON?
HTML is easier to read. JSON is better if you want to process the data later.
Does Telegram export everything?
It exports a lot, but not necessarily everything in the way a backup of the app would.
Last verified: Sep 3, 2026. Steps checked against core.telegram.org. Report an outdated step →