Where Does Notability Store Notes?
Notability stores notes on device by default, with iCloud sync for Apple devices and one way backup to Drive or Dropbox.
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Notability keeps everything on the device until you turn something on. iCloud sync copies notes between iPhone, iPad, and Mac on the same Apple ID. It is two way, so a delete in one place deletes everywhere. That catches people during cleanups.
Auto backup is the safer copy. It sends Note or PDF versions to Box, Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, or WebDAV in a folder called Notability. That copy survives even if you delete the original. Turn it on for at least one synced device and leave locked notes included if you use them.
Where Notability stores this, by platform
App-private library (iCloud sync optional)
Enable iCloud syncing under Library > Settings > Connected Services. Enable auto backup to Dropbox, Drive, OneDrive, Box, or WebDAV for portable copies outside the app.
App-private library (iCloud sync optional)
Same behavior as iOS when using the same Apple ID. Password locked notes are skipped by auto backup unless you allow them in Folders to Back Up.
Frequently asked questions
Can Notability back up directly to iCloud Drive as files?
No. iCloud syncing moves notes between devices but it is not a file backup. For files you can browse in Finder, use auto backup to Dropbox, Drive, OneDrive, Box, or a WebDAV server instead.
How do I move Notability notes to a new Apple ID?
Sync the old library first, then turn sync off and choose Keep on My Device. Sign into the new Apple ID, turn sync back on, and let it upload. Keep an auto backup copy during the switch.
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