These days, it seems like even your calculator app wants your email address and location data. But Mako List offers a different approach.
We believe that your to-do list is private. It’s a record of where you are going, what you are buying, and what you are planning. That isn't data we need to see, and it certainly isn't data that needs to live on a server halfway across the world.
Here is exactly how Mako List handles your data, and why we built it this way.
The "Local-First" Architecture
Most modern apps work like this: You type a task -> The App sends it to their Cloud Server -> The Server sends it back to your phone.
Mako List works like this: You type a task -> It saves to your phone's internal storage.
But you have a choice ... Mako List can operate in private mode, where your data remains local and that's it. But you can also choose to have it back it up into a Secure Cloud Backup, a feature that Google provides for all Android phones. Your lists will be backed up with the rest of your phone's data so should you move to a new phone, or you accidentally uninstall Mako List, when you reinstall, Google will automatically restore your list data.
Mako List operates using the latest Android 15 data extraction and privacy standards. It's engineered to respect the latest OS-level privacy protections. And Mako List uses the standardized JSON file format for storage. This not only improves stability but also provides future portability... you OWN your own data, in a format that is human-readable and easy to move if you ever choose to.
No Accounts, No Logins
Because there is no server, there is no need for us to identify you.
You simply download the app, open it, choose whether you want Mako List to operate in private mode, or with the Google Secure Cloud backup, and start typing. We don't know your name, your email, or what lists you are building. We like it that way. We're guessing you probably like it that way, too.
Zero Tracking
We do not use third-party analytics trackers to watch how you use the app. We don't track which buttons you click, how long you stare at the screen, or what specific items you add to your lists.
This isn't just about privacy; it's about performance. By removing all the tracking code and server connections, Mako List runs instantly. There are no loading spinners because there is nothing to load.
It also allows you to use the app anywhere -- in airplane mode; in the woods with no signal; in the subway. Everywhere. Your only limit is the charge on your phone!
⚠️ IMPORTANT: The Trade-Off for those who keep their lists private and local :
There is one critical thing you must understand : If you uninstall the app, or get a new phone, your lists will be gone.
Because you chose not to backup of your list on a cloud server, you are the only guardian of your data.
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If you get a new phone, you will need to manually copy your lists over (or use Android's built-in device migration tools).
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If you clear the app's "Storage" in your Android settings, your lists will be wiped.
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If you throw your phone into a lake, your lists will be gone. (But then, you'll probably have worse problems!)
We believe this is a fair trade-off for total privacy and ownership, but it is important to be aware of it.
If you chose the Google Cloud Backup feature when you installed the app, Google has your back, and will backup and restore your lists in the event of calamity or getting a new phone.
Whether you keep it strictly on your device or utilize the secure backup, the keys to your data always stay in your pocket.
Mako List : Simple. Private. Yours.
