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Lost Anytype Recovery Phrase (Key)

Ongoing Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android Updated October 21, 2026

Quick answer

Anytype can't recover a lost 12-word Key. Copy it from a device where you're still logged in (Vault Settings > Login Key), or look in your OS key storage: Keychain Access on Mac, Credential Manager on Windows, GNOME Keyring on Linux.

Most likely fix: Copy the Key from another logged-in device.

Symptoms

You're logged out or on a new device and Anytype asks for your Key, but you never saved the 12 words.

Why it happens

  • Key never written down at signup
  • App reinstalled or device reset
  • Logged out to change data folder or network

How to fix it

Try these in order — the most common fix is first.

  1. 1. Copy the Key from another logged-in device

    1. Open Anytype on any device where you're still logged in
    2. Click your profile in the bottom-left corner
    3. Click Login Key and click the eye icon to reveal the 12 words

  2. 2. Recover it from Keychain Access (Mac)

    1. Open Finder > Applications > Utilities > Keychain Access
    2. Select Default Keychains: login
    3. Find your Anytype entry and check 'Show password'

  3. 3. Recover it from Credential Manager (Windows)

    1. Open Credential Manager from the Start menu
    2. Find the Anytype credential and reveal it
    3. If there's no Show button, use the PowerShell script linked in Anytype's FAQ

  4. 4. Recover it from GNOME Keyring (Linux)

    1. Install and open Seahorse (Passwords and Keys)
    2. Look for the Anytype entry in the Login keyring

  5. 5. Save it properly once you have it

    1. Write the 12 words on paper and store them somewhere safe
    2. If you store it digitally, use a password manager, not a cloud note

This guide also covers

  • anytype lost recovery phrase
  • anytype forgot key
  • anytype recover account
  • anytype lost key
  • anytype recovery phrase

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