Numerous users are migrating to Claude amidst a series of controversies connected to ChatGPT and its parent organization, OpenAI. 

The pivotal moment arose when Anthropic, the firm behind Claude, declined to permit the Department of Defense to utilize its AI models for extensive domestic surveillance or entirely autonomous weaponry. In retaliation, President Trump instructed all federal agencies to cease using Anthropic’s products, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disclosed intentions to label the company a supply-chain risk. 

Shortly thereafter, OpenAI revealed its own arrangement with the Pentagon, asserting to incorporate safeguards, yet the agreement has ignited extensive discussions regarding privacy and the ethical application of AI.

Consequently, Claude has ascended to the pinnacle of the free app rankings in Apple’s U.S. App Store, surpassing ChatGPT. According to Anthropic, daily registrations have reached unprecedented levels, free users have surged by over 60% since January, and the number of paid subscribers has more than doubled this year. 

For a significant number of users, the recent issues have rendered Claude an attractive substitute for ChatGPT. If you’re contemplating a switch, this guide will assist you in transferring your data and closing your ChatGPT account.

How to export your data from ChatGPT

Ending your relationship with ChatGPT shouldn’t entail losing years of digital memories. Rather than beginning anew with a different AI assistant, you can transfer your data to Claude so it can immediately understand your preferences.

There are several methods to achieve this. One initial step is to access Settings. From there, navigate to Personalization and locate the Memory section. Select “Manage” and review your stored data, making any necessary updates that no longer represent your preferences accurately. Once everything is current, copy the information you wish to retain. 

Alternatively, you may export your complete chat history. Go to Settings, select Data Controls, and click on “Export Data.” ChatGPT will compile your chat records into text or JSON files and send them to you via email. (Note that this could take some time if you possess a large history.)

You may also opt for a manual approach by copying important conversations from your history or requesting ChatGPT to summarize your primary preferences, frequently mentioned topics, and any custom instructions you utilize.

Import your data into Claude

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After you’ve compiled your data, moving it to Claude is simple. 

Open Claude, navigate to Settings, then Capabilities, and ensure Memory is activated. Next, start a new conversation and prompt something like, “Here’s some vital context I’d like you to remember. Update your memory about me with this.” Then paste your details or summaries directly into the chat. 

For exported chat files, avoid pasting raw logs. Instead, instruct Claude with something along the lines of: “Review this and summarize my key preferences.”

We also advise confirming with Claude that your data has been accurately stored. You can always adjust your preferences as they evolve.

Permanently delete your ChatGPT account

To fully sever ties with ChatGPT, merely canceling your subscription isn’t sufficient to erase your data. 

Here’s what you need to do:

• Access Settings, then Personalization, and select Memory.
• Eliminate any stored memories or personalization settings.
• For added peace of mind, type “Delete all my memory and personalized data” as a final command in chat.
• Then head to your account management settings to delete your account completely.

This story has been updated to clarify the claim that Claude’s memory feature is exclusively for paid subscribers. It is available to free users as well.