What is a native chat export?¶

A native chat export is a file or package created by a messaging service's own export function. It can provide a searchable conversation sequence, but contains only what that function made exportable to that account at that time.

The package is a generated representation¶

Depending on service and version, an export may include text, participant labels, dates, system events and attachments - or only references and filenames. Deleted items, edits, reactions, calls, delivery states, group changes and stable IDs may be absent. Times can be converted into the exporting device's local zone.

Preserve the original package, filenames and folder structure before transforming it. Record exporting account, operator, date and zone, device, application version, options and whether media was included.

Exporting can affect the environment¶

The process may require live account interaction, create files and alter access-related records. Document those effects and retain a separate working copy.

Compare important events with screenshots, source and linked-device data, other participants and provider returns. Export completeness must be tested rather than inferred from length or formatting.