Where Does Primal Keep Nostr Keys on Mobile?
Primal holds your nsec in encrypted app storage, with Amber signer support and manual key backup.
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Primal stores the private key in encrypted local storage on each device. Android builds use an encrypted Room database, iOS the keychain equivalent. Relays hold your posts, not your key. Losing every logged in device without a backup means losing the identity.
Copy the nsec from Primal settings now and keep it offline. Android users can switch login to the Amber signer app so the key lives outside Primal. Primal also works as a remote signer for web clients without pasting the key around.
Where Primal stores this, by platform
Encrypted app storage (nsec, local cache)
Back up nsec from settings to paper or a password manager. Amber signer option keeps the key in a separate app. Reinstalls wipe unexported keys.
Encrypted app storage (nsec, local cache)
Same model as Android. Export nsec before device wipes. Wallet state is custodial in app, so follow Primal wallet backup guidance separately.
Frequently asked questions
How do I back up my Primal identity?
Open settings, reveal the secret key, and store the nsec offline in two places. Anyone with it owns the account. Never paste it into websites except through a signer flow you trust.
What is Amber login in Primal?
An Android signer app that holds the nsec so Primal only requests signatures. Enable it at login on supported builds. The key never sits in Primal storage afterwards.
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