This project provides a client-side JavaScript script to back up your entire ChatGPT conversation history from chat.openai.com into a single JSON file. It's designed for users who want to archive their conversations locally for offline access, reference, or to retain ownership of model outputs as per OpenAI's terms.

How It Works

The script operates directly within the user's browser console, leveraging the same frontend API calls that the ChatGPT web interface uses. This approach avoids external dependencies or server-side processing, ensuring the entire operation is client-side and auditable. It includes logic to respect OpenAI's rate limits, processing conversations in batches to prevent API throttling.

Quick Start & Requirements

• Install/Run: Copy and paste the backup.js script content into the browser's developer console (F12) on chat.openai.com.
• Prerequisites: A modern web browser (tested on Chrome, Firefox) with an active ChatGPT session.
• Setup Time: Minimal, as it's a copy-paste operation. Backup time depends on the number of conversations (e.g., ~1 hour for 6000 conversations).
• Links: GitHub Repository

Highlighted Details

• Single, client-side script for easy execution.
• Respects OpenAI API rate limits.
• Output is a single, auditable JSON file.
• Includes an index.html for previewing backups.
• Adjustable offsets for resuming interrupted backups.

Maintenance & Community

The project has a notable contributor for the backup preview feature. Further community engagement details are not specified in the README.

Licensing & Compatibility

The repository does not explicitly state a license. This may pose compatibility issues for commercial use or linking with proprietary codebases.

Limitations & Caveats

The script is intended for read-only backups; conversation IDs are not stored. Users must keep their browser tab open during the backup process. Chrome may prompt for file download upon completion. The lack of an explicit license requires careful consideration for any use beyond personal archiving.