Frequently asked questions

How do I create a collection?

On the Collections screen, tap +, give your collection a name, and pick an icon and color — or start from a template (Records, Watches, Books, Cards…) that pre-fills useful custom fields.

How do I add items quickly?

Three ways: add one item with photos and details; Shelf Capture (collection menu → “Add from Shelf Photo…”) to photograph several items at once and split them automatically; or import an existing catalog from Discogs, Goodreads, CLZ, or iCollect (Settings → “Import from another app…”).

What’s “Do I own this?”

The barcode button on the home screen. Scan a product’s barcode in a store and instantly see whether you own it or have it wishlisted. No barcode? Use Search by photo — the app compares your snapshot against your items’ photos, entirely on your device. You can also ask Siri: “Do I own …?”

How does value tracking work?

Each item can record what you paid and what it’s worth now. Every time you update the value, the old one is kept as history, so you can see gains per item and across your collection in Stats.

How do I make an insurance report?

Settings → Export insurance report (PDF) creates a photo-rich inventory with values, dates, locations, and attached documents (receipts, certificates) noted per item.

What are QR box labels?

If you record locations on items (“Attic box 3”), Settings → Print box labels makes a printable sheet of QR stickers. Scanning a sticker with your iPhone camera opens exactly what’s stored in that box.

Does it sync across my devices?

Yes — if you’re signed in to iCloud, collections sync privately across your Apple devices through your own iCloud account. We never see your data.

How do I share a list with someone?

Open a collection → menu → Share Collection… sends a full copy (items + photos) that another Need a List user can import. Export as Web Page makes a viewable page for anyone, no app needed. There’s also PDF, CSV, and a HAVE/WANT trade list.

How do backups work?

Settings → Back up everything saves a single file containing every collection, item, photo, and document. Keep it in Files/iCloud Drive and restore any time. Your data is never locked in.

Is there a subscription?

No. Need a List is a one-time purchase — every feature included, forever. No accounts, no ads, no tracking.

Why don’t visual search or shelf capture find anything?

They work best with clear photos: good lighting, items spaced apart, shot straight-on. Very busy scenes or flat artwork can stump the on-device recognition — try a closer shot.

Still stuck?

Email support@hessamzahedi.com with your device model, iOS version, and a short description of what happened — we’ll help you sort it out.