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Ask HN: In 2024 what's the best way to manage contacts?

88 points raleighm | 1 comments | 19 Oct 24 04:41 UTC | HN request time: 0.225s | source

How do people sync and manage contacts across so many apps and contexts?

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UPDATE: Thanks for the comments so far. To clarify my situation:

My main use cases are: Gmail (personal): For personal contacts. Gmail (work): For professional contacts related to my role. Outlook (work): For internal and external business communication. LinkedIn: Managing professional connections. Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Messenger, etc.): Keeping in touch with a wide range of contacts.

I’ve tried syncing across these platforms using Google Contacts, vCard exports, and a few automation tools, but the results have been inconsistent. Either the syncing doesn't work as expected, or there’s a lot of manual cleanup involved—especially when contacts change roles or details across different apps.

I’m wondering if anyone has found a more seamless way to manage contacts across all these different contexts? I’d love to hear any recommendations for more advanced tools, automations, or strategies that have worked for you.

1. yochem ◴[22 Oct 24 07:57 UTC] No.41912172[source]▶
A bit off topic but I absolutely HATE that the Contacts app in ios feels like a one-day hobby project. How is it still so america-centric? Why can't I sort my contacts in Dutch sorting order? Why can't I add other important dates (like their day of death) that also shows up in my calendar?