FAQs

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the app really free?

Yes, the app is completely free of charge. There are no hidden costs, in‑app purchases or subscriptions.

If you would like to contribute and say “thank you”, there are two ways to do so:

1. Donation inside JustChords: Main Menu → Support → Support JC.
2. Via PayPal: Donate via PayPal.

What is a folder in JustChords?

In JustChords there are two kinds of folders: regular Folders and Shared Folders.

A regular Folder is a self-contained library of songs and setlists, for example:

• One folder with songs for Band A.
• Another folder with songs for Band B.
• A folder for a specific genre, theme or event.

Shared Folders are also self-contained, but can be shared in their entirety. This means:

• All songs and setlists inside that folder become accessible to other people with whom you share the link.
• Other people can open the shared folder in JustChords (on Apple devices) or in the OpenSongApp (on Android) and import it into their app.
• If someone makes changes to a shared folder, those changes can be synchronized via the collaboration mode so that everyone stays up to date.

Why is the app downloading a file from iCloud?

JustChords uses iCloud Drive to store your song library so it can be kept in sync across your iPhone, iPad and Mac. When you see a download screen, the app is downloading or verifying the main data file (usually called library.json) from iCloud. Normally this screen disappears automatically once the file is available and up to date.

If the screen does not disappear, try the following steps:

• Connect to Wi‑Fi or allow iCloud Drive sync over mobile data in the Settings app.
• Open the Files app, browse to your iCloud Drive → JustChords folder, and make sure the library.json file is downloaded (no cloud icon next to it).
• Check that iCloud Drive synchronization is working system‑wide; if not, use online guides to repair iCloud Drive sync.

If you prefer, you can also turn off iCloud Drive for JustChords in the iOS Settings app.

How do I use “Keep Downloaded” on iOS 18 and iOS 26?

In iOS 18, iOS 26, iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia, the Files app has a Keep Downloaded option that lets you store files or folders permanently on your device for offline use.

To keep your JustChords data always available offline:

1. Open the Files app and go to iCloud Drive → JustChords.
2. Long‑press the file or folder you want to keep (for example, the JustChords folder or library.json).
3. Choose Keep Downloaded from the context menu.

Why is the app stuck on the “Discovering” screen?

The Discovering screen is shown when iCloud is enabled and the app is checking the status of the main data file (library.json) in iCloud Drive. This screen should disappear once JustChords confirms that the file exists and is up to date.

So far, only very few users have reported that the app freezes on this screen. If this happens to you even after checking your iCloud connection and Files app as described above, please contact the developer at marek@justchords.app with a short description of your setup and the problem.

General

What is JustChords?

JustChords is an app for cataloging chord charts and lyrics, creating and managing a song library, and building setlists synchronized via iCloud across your Apple devices.

On which platforms does JustChords run?

JustChords runs on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision devices, with data synchronized through iCloud.

Installation & Data

How do I perform a completely new installation without any data from a previous installation?

If you want a truly clean installation without any old songs, folders, or settings, you need to remove both the app and its iCloud

1. Close JustChords on all your devices.
2. In the Files app or Finder (on macOS), delete the “JustChords” folder from iCloud Drive.
3. Delete the JustChords app from your device.
4. Reinstall JustChords from the App Store and open it again.

This sequence ensures that the app does not restore data such as previous folders or songbooks from iCloud or local app storage.

Does JustChords store data anywhere else besides iCloud?

JustChords primarily stores your library in iCloud Drive so it can sync between devices, but it may also keep local app data (cache, settings) on each device. Removing both the iCloud “JustChords” folder and the app itself effectively wipes all user data, so you start with an empty library after reinstalling.

Library & Setlists

How do I create my song library?

You can create your library by importing songs from the internet or other apps, or by writing them directly in JustChords, and then organize them using tags.

Can I share setlists with other people?

Yes, you can create and share setlists for live sets, and shared setlists support collaboration between multiple users.

Editing & Viewing Songs

How can I format lyrics and chords?

Use the Song Editor to edit your chords and lyrics, apply formatting such as color or **bold**, and add note sheets or chord beats.

Can I transpose songs or use a capo?

Yes, in the Song Viewer you can transpose chords or use a capo, and customize the view (header, lyrics size, chords size, and color).

Devices & Performance

Does JustChords support AUv3 and DAWs?

Yes, you can use JustChords as an AUv3 plugin in supported Digital Audio Workstations in addition to the standalone app.

Does JustChords work offline?

You can access your existing, locally cached songs and setlists offline, but some features that rely on iCloud or online sources may be limited without an internet connection.