You can export a complete archive of your LADLE data at any time. This is not a subscription-gated feature: cancelled accounts can export their history for 30 days after cancellation. The archive is portable — no proprietary format — so if you ever move to another tool, your history moves with you.
Requesting an export
Settings → Privacy → Export my data → Request export. LADLE queues the export and emails a signed download link within 15 minutes for typical account sizes; up to 4 hours for large accounts (>10,000 chats or heavy attached files). Links expire after 7 days; you can request a new one at any time.
What the archive contains
A single ZIP with a documented directory layout. Every file is UTF-8, plain-text where possible, and the JSON schemas are versioned so an old export always tells you which version it was.
Format specifics
JSON files use ISO 8601 timestamps in UTC. The schema is versioned (schemaVersion field on each file); breaking changes are announced at least 90 days in advance in the changelog. UTF-8 throughout. Attached images retain original resolution and metadata.
Individual chat vs full account export
For a single chat, use the chat menu → Export → Markdown / JSON. Markdown is human-readable; JSON matches the full-account format. Individual exports are instant. Use them for sharing a specific chat, not for backup.
Team / business account exports
Business admins can export data for any member of their workspace via Settings → Team → member → Export. The member is notified (never silent). The exported archive follows the same format above. Admin exports are logged in the workspace audit trail.
GDPR / privacy-choices deletion
If your intent is deletion rather than portability, use Settings → Privacy → Delete my account. This exports your data first (delivered via email), then deletes primary and backup storage within 30 days. Deletion is irreversible; the confirmation modal is explicit. See /legal/privacy-choices for the full rights list.