Q: WP8.1 SMS text messages export/backup as plain textfile?

[RobWuu]

Hi all,

I'm trying to backup sms text messages from a WP8.1 phone.
But it seems there's not much out there to do this? I feel I'm running in circles on the web :unhappy:

There's a MS backup tool installed on the phone (in settings), and it gives me a .hsh and .msg file. The last one seems to be some kind of xml file, with a ton of 'clutter'.
Apparently Outlook.com is also able to show you your messages (incoming only it seems), but how the heck can I export those into a file?

If anyone knows a proper way to export all your sms text messages into a readable text file in one go that would be great.
Or some way to read the xml? .msg file properly, or have Outlook.com spit out a file with the text messages.

cheers!

rob

 

[RobWuu]

Seriously? nobody knows a solution for this?
iOS and Android have these app in droves, WP8 -again- is missing basic features and apps. Not to mention it's already getting worse now WM10 is pushed :-(

 

[xandros9]

Nope.

If it makes you feel better I had to muck through a backup and jump through some hoops to get a copy of my iOS messages.

 

[GrayW0lf]

There is an app for Windows 10 desktop OS that might work. It's called "Windows Phone Message Backup" and it will export SMS/MMS to a text file.

The "contacts+messages backup" tool is strictly for phone to phone backup/restore purposes.

I hope that this helps!

 

[RobWuu]

@xandros9: Thanks, that makes it a bit better I guess ;-)

@GrayW0lf: PC is still on Win7 I'm afraid. I found a free xml viewer, maybe that will help opening the .msg file in a bit more readable format.

cheers!
Rob