# Import app

The Import app screen allows you to import one or more app metadata records that were previously exported or backed up. You will need to know the passphrase that was used to export or back up the app metadata record(s) in order to decrypt and import them.

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The available import methods differ depending on your device type:

## Import method types

### Clipboard

You can import app metadata record(s) via the system clipboard, by selecting the contents of a previously exported `.apc` file.

### macOS file system

On a iOS Simulator, you can select a `.apc` file from the host macOS file system.

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### iOS Document Picker

On an iOS Simulator or physical device you use the system document picker to select a `.apc` file from the device's local file system or iCloud Drive.

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### Drag and drop

On an iOS Simulator you can drag a `.apc` file from the host macOS file system on top of the iOS Simulator. Appfigurate will display the Import app screen automatically with an additional row `Shared with Appfigurate`.&#x20;

### QR Code

On a physical iOS device, you can use the camera to take a photo to import a QR code that is displayed on another Appfigurate instance that is using the export function.

## Select apps to import

Once you have selected a .apc file to import, the following screen will be displayed, allowing you to tick one or more apps to selectively import. You will not be able to import an app with the same type (iOS, watchOS) and URL Scheme of one that already exists in the local database.

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Tapping `Next` will prompt you to enter the passphrase to decrypt the app metadata record(s).

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Entering the correct passphrase and tapping `Import` will import the apps into the local database and display the [Select app](https://docs.electricbolt.co.nz/appfigurate-user-guide/select-app) screen.