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Will importing data from another platform overwrite my existing Simkl watch history and watchlist?

When bringing in your watch history from another service—Simkl is designed to merge rather than replace. Your existing watchlist entries, watched episodes, ratings, and memos remain intact. Here’s how it works and what to expect.

Importing external data should streamline your tracking, not disrupt it. Simkl’s import tools prioritize data integrity by skipping duplicates and never deleting what you’ve already marked as watched. Whether you’re syncing hundreds of episodes or importing a hand‑picked custom list, Simkl merges new entries into your profile, ensuring a seamless integration of both past and newly imported data.

Importing to Simkl

1. How Simkl Handles Duplicate Entries

Simkl’s import process checks each incoming item against your current watchlist and watched history:

  • Existing Items: If a show, movie, or episode is already in your watchlist—even marked as watched—Simkl skips that entry.

  • New Items: Titles not present in your profile are added to the appropriate list (Plan to Watch, Watching, Completed, etc.).

2. Step‑by‑Step Import Process

  1. Choose Your Import Method

    • CSV/JSON File: Go to Apps → Import and select CSV or JSON.

    • Platform Sync (e.g., IMDB, Trakt): Visit Apps → Import Trakt and authorize the connection.

  2. Upload or Authorize

    • Files: Click Browse, select your export file, then Upload.

    • OAuth Apps: Sign in and grant Simkl access.

  3. Review Import Summary

    • After processing, you’ll see a report:

      • Newly Added: Count of titles added.

      • Skipped Duplicates: Count of existing entries.

      • Errors (if any): Items that couldn’t be matched.

  4. Finalize Import

    • Click Confirm to complete. Your existing data stays untouched; only new items join your lists.

3. Best Practices

  • Backup First: Before large imports, create a backup via Apps → Backup to restore your profile if needed.

  • Clean Slate (Optional): Use the Clean Watch History tool under Settings → Account Cleanup if you prefer starting fresh.

  • Verify Results: After importing, visit your Watchlists and History tabs to confirm the new items appear correctly.

Simkl Account Cleanup & DeletionExport Options
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