docs/usage/migrate-from-local-database.mdx
LobeHub v1.x Desktop offered a local database mode — your data lived on your device. Starting with v2.x, we moved to a cloud-first architecture and removed the local database. The result: a lighter client, faster iteration, and a consistent experience across browser, desktop, and mobile.
<Callout type="info"> **Why the change?** The v1.x local database consumed more system resources, and only a small portion of users relied on it. By simplifying the client and focusing on cloud-first, we improve performance and ship new features faster. </Callout>This guide walks you through exporting from v1.x and importing into v2.x. Your Agents, conversations, and settings can all move over — typically in a few minutes.
Prefer to self-host? Deploy v2.x first using the Self-Hosting Guide, then import your data into that instance.
You can still migrate. Your local database files are not deleted when you upgrade — they remain on disk until you remove them.
By default, the v1.x local database is stored at:
%APPDATA%/lobehub-storage/lobehub-local-db~/Library/Application Support/lobehub-storage/lobehub-local-dbIf you need to recover data manually, these paths may be useful.
Depending on your v1.x build and export format, you can typically migrate:
| Item | Migrated |
|---|---|
| Agents | Yes — names, prompts, model settings |
| Conversations & Topics | Yes — messages and topic structure |
| Prompt templates | Yes, if your v1.x build supported them |
| Basic preferences | Yes — language, theme, shortcuts (when supported) |
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| API keys and secrets | Re-enter them in v2.x for security. v2.x uses a different storage model. |
| Local-only files / cache | Temporary data that doesn't apply to cloud. |
| Device-specific settings | Some settings are tied to the old local setup. |
In the v1.x Desktop app:
2026-01-22-10-02_LobeHub-data.json).Tips:
In any v2.x app (Desktop, Web, or self-hosted):
Tips:
After importing, spot-check:
If something is missing, keep the v1.x export file. Update to the latest v2.x, then try importing again. The export format may have improved in newer versions.
If you run into issues:
Include your v1.x version, v2.x version, and a description of what went wrong. If possible, note whether the export completed successfully and where the import failed.