Where Are Bear Notes Stored?
Bear keeps notes in a local SQLite database on Apple devices. The macOS database file is directly accessible, while iOS access is blocked by sandbox policy.
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On macOS Bear uses a group container with an Application Data folder that contains database.sqlite. Third party SQLite tools can read a copy of that file.
On iOS and iPadOS the same SQLite store lives inside the app sandbox and is not exposed to Files. Use Bear backup, export or iCloud sync to move notes off the device.
Where Bear stores this, by platform
~/Library/Group Containers/9K33E3U3T4.net.shinyfrog.bear/Application Data/database.sqlite
~ is the macOS user home. Quit Bear, copy database.sqlite plus adjacent wal and shm files before inspection. Read the copy to avoid lock or migration issues.
App sandbox (no user accessible file path)
iOS storage policy hides the SQLite file. Export notes from Bear share sheets or rely on Bear iCloud sync. Deleting the app deletes the local store.
Frequently asked questions
Can I read Bear notes with an SQLite viewer?
Yes on macOS. Quit Bear, duplicate database.sqlite to another folder, then open the duplicate. Keep the original untouched so sync and migration keep working.
What happens if I edit the live database?
Edits can break foreign keys and block future upgrades. Bear may crash or lose data. If tests are needed, work on a copy and keep Bear closed.
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