Frequently asked questions
The basics. For step-by-step setup and troubleshooting, see the full guide.
What is PJ Journal?
PJ is a private journaling app built around your voice. Say what's on your mind and it writes it down, or type it yourself. It keeps everything encrypted and yours, and brings it to every Apple device you own.
Is it really private? Can you read my journal?
No. Your words, labels, recordings and photos are end-to-end encrypted — stored as unreadable ciphertext, with the key kept only on your own devices. We can't read it, we don't sell anything, and there are no ads. It syncs through your own private iCloud, not our servers. Read the full privacy policy.
What devices does it work on?
iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Write on one, read on another — it stays in sync across your devices. (The Apple Watch is for quick capture; you read and organize on iPhone, iPad, or Mac.)
How do I get PJ?
PJ is on the App Store: get PJ on the App Store. It runs on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Already a beta tester? You can keep using the TestFlight version free, and your journal stays right where it is.
Does it cost anything?
$2.99, one time. No subscription, no ads, no in-app purchases. One purchase covers your iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Beta testers can keep using the beta at no cost.
What if I can't afford it?
PJ was built to help people, not to make money. If the cost is truly what stands in your way, email support@pjjournal.com and tell us a little about your situation. We read every request personally and set aside a number of free copies for people who need them.
I'm a counselor or run a support group. Can the people I work with use PJ?
Yes, and we'd love that. Write to support@pjjournal.com and tell us a little about your group, and we'll work out how PJ can help the people you serve. Their journals stay private to them — not even you or we can read them.
How do I capture an entry?
Open PJ and tap Start talking — say whatever you like and it's written down right there. Prefer typing? Tap Type instead. On Apple Watch, add the Capture a thought complication to a watch face and your wrist becomes the fastest way in.
What happens if I lose my phone?
Because your journal is encrypted, it's safe in your private iCloud — as long as your key travels with you. Keep iCloud Keychain on, and when PJ offers you a recovery key, save it somewhere safe. That key is how you get back in on a new device if anything ever goes wrong.
Can I get my words back out?
Always. Open any entry and you can Copy it, Print or Save as PDF, or Export it — a single entry or a whole stretch of days. Your journal is yours to take anywhere.
I added PJ on my Mac and it's empty.
Almost always this means your key hasn't arrived yet. Sign in as the same Apple ID you use on your iPhone, and make sure iCloud Keychain is on on both the iPhone and the Mac. Your Mac is just waiting for the key — nothing is lost. The full guide has a step-by-step for this.
How do I get help?
Email support@pjjournal.com — questions, bugs, or ideas, anything at all. It reaches us directly. The full guide also covers setup, Apple Watch, importing an old journal, and troubleshooting.