BlackBerry backup files created on a computer running the Windows operating system were given the file extension .IPD (Inter@ctive Pager Backup); whereas those created on Apple OS were given the .BBB file extension.
In early 2012, BlackBerry creators 'Research In Motion' (RIM) decided to give all BlackBerry backup files (regardless of the operating system) the .BBB file extension thus making the .IPD backup obsolete.
These backup files stored a copy of the personal data (address book/contacts, SMS messages, emails, calendar etc) from a BlackBerry device (phone or playbook). Depending on the options chosen when creating the backup, an IPD file may also contain device configuration settings.
The sole-purpose of an IPD file was to store a backup of a BlackBerry's data and should the need arise; restore the data to the original or identical device.
How to Open an IPD file
The only reliable way to read the personal data in a BlackBerry backup is with phoneMiner, which will allow you to view your contacts (address book), SMS messages, Emails and calendar databases.
phoneMiner will also allow you export your data to other formats, such as Microsoft Excel, VCF (vCard) or XML.
How to Create an IPD file
IPD files were both created and used by 'BlackBerry Desktop Software', a software application bundled with each device or downloaded from RIM's website.
Once installed, a backup could be created by firstly connecting your BlackBerry to your computer (using a standard USB cable) and selecting the backup option in the Desktop Manager menu. You were then given the choice to create either a full or partial backup.
A full-backup would backup all your personal data and the device's configuration settings. The partial-backup option would allow you to specify which databases were to be backed up (E.g. 'Address book' only).
Finally, you were given the option to password-protect the backup, doing so would encrypt your backup using a 256-bit AES encryption algorithm. Anyone trying to access your password-protected backup would need to provide the password specified when it was first created.
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Comments (19)
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1-19
peachy99
2006-10-21 21:17:25
#1
I bought a Blackberry and saved a backup of the handheld on my laptop via the Blackberry's software. But how do I open the files now? What program do I need to download?
Arnold
2007-05-10 03:35:41
#2
HI, I'm trying to open my back up to extract just the address book details, what program should i use?
Jay /
Administrator
2007-05-11 04:28:06
#3
I've updated the entry for this extension.
As above, you can use phoneMiner to open these files and export the data to other formats.
Jay.
Alan
2008-10-13 03:38:50
#4
Why have Blackberry made it, as far as I'm concerned, almost impossible (without purchasing phoneMiner) to open an IPD "Back-UP" file on an external PC?
giorgio vonmoos
2008-10-22 07:09:27
#5
I'd like to have the maps on my phone blackberry
Dana
2009-04-19 19:27:30
#6
For all with Blackberrys and issues saving the backup files.
I work for a cellular provider(unable to release names and specifics due to this new policy crap), and I am trained in technical support for Blackberrys.
There is entirely far too much hassle with your basic backup with these IPD files.
I HIGHLY recommend you to go to http://www.blackberry.com/services/desktop/ and click the DOWNLOAD button.
Just follow the prompts, don't panic about anything, it's really as easy as it's stated.
The Desktop Manager is your one stop shop for everything.
Syncs all emails, calendar, contacts, etc.; Allows you to transfer and save any music, video, random files between your computer and your phone; Desktop Manager will notify you of any new updates available to help your device stay updated with Blackberry's technology; And if you have your company (enterprise) email, you can also maintain these with the assistance of your it dept.
Most importantly...
IT BACKUPS & RESTORES ALL YOUR DATA WITHOUT THE HASSLE OF IPD OR ANY OTHER KIND OF FILES!!!
It's the only thing we recommend to our customers and it prevents, no joke, 98% of your storage, backup, and restore issues.
abhik
2009-04-23 23:51:25
#7
bb helpline says that we cannot view ipd files. The only way it can, is transfer the data into other smartphones. I haven't tried it it, but they claim that it could be done,
Marty McFly
2009-06-22 11:06:16
#8
I got a blackberry and did a data transfer to my computer and it saved it as a .cab file and it was able to open with "windows explorer" but now when I do a data transfer it only saves it as a .ipd.
How can I switch it back to a .cab file so I am able to view it?
scott bonnette
2009-06-27 20:38:22
#9
I was updating my blackberry and in the 9 of 11 task it had a fatal error while loading. My blackberry seems to be completely erased and I do not have access to any of the info previously on my blackberry.
I have a IPD loader backup file on my laptop but it will not open. Is there a customer support number I can call to get assistance?
xen
2009-07-14 04:55:56
#10
My desktop manager stops when I am trying to restore the .ipd file to my Blackberry and says my Blackberry is not connected properly (it is).
Frustrating as all my contacts and texts are on there.
Patty
2009-08-11 19:52:57
#11
Does the ipd file store any deleted text messages? Purged files?
Where do they go if they aren't stored?
I saved several text messages and only some come back up with the converter. How do you see the whole list of messages deleted?
Lisa
2009-08-30 17:11:32
#12
I just called for tech help at Sprint since I used the Blackberry software to backup my contacts on my computer. I was having the same problem opening it as others. The guy told me that the ipd file was not meant to be opened. You cannot physically see it. It is only meant to be used if you need to restore information back to your phone. He did say that if you have Microsoft Outlook or a Google e-mail account there is a way to do it. I don't have either. I wish I had known this before I spent an hour trying to open the file.
Cera
2009-09-22 15:12:48
#13
I was having the same problem. You dont need to open it. When you open the desk top manager click on backup/restore. Choose restore. I just did it and everything including my pictures were transferred to the new phone. It was really easy once I realized I didn't need to open it. Hope this helps everyone out.
Me
2010-05-04 12:14:49
#14
I did a backup and I can only locate my .cab file and not the .ipd file. Is there anyway I can convert the .cab to a .ipd file.
Tom
2012-03-06 19:35:52
#15
I suggest taking a look at phoneMiner - it allows you to extract both IPD and BBB backup files.
My device showing an App Error code : 523 and RESET. what does that means. I am unable to open my device.
Pupa
2012-07-06 23:39:51
#17
i just backup'd my BB. i use a PC but the file was saved as a .bbb for Mac systems instead of .ipd which is for a PC. how do i get file saved as a .ipd file and what program do i use to view file?
Labgeek
2012-10-23 12:20:02
#18
Pupa, RIM have changed all backups (PC and Mac) to use the extension .BBB
Zakkiyya
2012-11-03 17:05:28
#19
Hi, my blackberry is gone for repairs and the store people gave me a backup file in .ipd, I need to transfer this onto a samsang phone that was given to me as a replacement during the repair period. I need my contacts in order to carry on with work. Help please?
