How to Split Single VCF File into Multiple VCF Files?
If you have always exported contacts from your smartphone or email client, you’ve likely found the VCF file format. But what happens when a one VCF file contains hundreds of contacts & you want each one in a separate file? In this article, we will explore various methods to split single VCF file into multiple VCF files using manual techniques, command-line tools, and dedicated software, tailored for both technical and non-technical users.
Table of Contents
Why Split a VCF File?
Some scenarios where splitting is useful include:
- Compatibility: Some mobile apps or platforms (like older Android versions) only import single-contact VCFs.
- Granular Editing: It’s easier to update and sync contacts individually.
- Backup and Restoration: You can back up or restore individual contacts.
- Selective Sharing: Share only specific contacts without exposing the full VCF.
Read More: Import Multiple VCF Files into Excel
Stepwise Guide to Split Single VCF File into Multiple VCF Files
If your VCF or vCard file has only some entries and you are not comfortable with scripts, you can manually copy & paste each contact into a new file with a text editor.
(Not Recommended for Large Files)
- Open the .vcf file in a text editor like Notepad++ (Windows) or Sublime Text.
Search for BEGIN:VCARD. - Copy the contents from BEGIN:VCARD to END:VCARD for every contact.
- Paste it into a new file and save it as contact.vcf, contact 2.vcf etc.
Split vCard File into Multiple Contacts Via Windows Contacts
- Click the Your Windows Contacts Folder.
- Select the Win + R tab, type: %userprofile%\Contacts and press Enter.
- This starts the Windows Contacts folder.
- In the contacts window, press the Import from the up toolbar.
- Choose the VCF or vCard file from the checklist and pick the Import.
- Browse for your VCF files, click on it, and press Open.
- Windows will find a VCF file to save every contact separately.
- Each contact in the multi-contact file will be split into its own contact entry inside the Contacts folder.
Limitations of Manual Method
- The manual approach can be very slow, especially for large VCF files.
- Human error is a significant risk.
- The manual process doesn’t scale well. If you want to divide large VCF files regularly.
Expert Recommended to Split Single VCF File into Multiple VCF Files
To easy split VCF into multiple contacts, the most suggested way is the VCF File Conversion Software. The application provides an automated, precise way for handling various large VCF files within a small period of time.
It also retains whole the contact details after splitting the vCard file. With this utility you can also merge VCF files with all attributes. It provides to break vCard file into contacts & create separate VCF files for every contact. Users can first select specific VCF contacts and then use the checkbox option to choose the contacts to be extracted from the list.
Stepwise Procedure to Split VCF File to Multiple Contacts
- Download & install the software on computer.
- Select the Single or Multiple VCF/vCard File.
- Browse VCF data File into app Panel.
- Press the Split vCard Export Option.
- Click the Advanced Setup option & choose the required vCard version i.e., v2.1, v3.0, v4.0.
- Browse a place on your computer to save the resultant VCF.
- Press the Export button.
- The splitting process. A dialogue box will appear giving you live status of the process.
Best Practices Before Splitting Process
- Backup your original VCF file.
- Scan for errors or duplicates.
- Find VCF file format edition compatibility (2.1, 3.0, 4.0).
- Test split files before importing.
Final Word
Splitting a VCF file into multiple files can significantly improve your ability to manage, share, and migrate contacts. Whether you prefer a simple manual and automatic method to split single VCF file into multiple VCF files you choose should suit your comfort level and project size. Taking the time to understand and manipulate VCF files puts you in control of your data—something that’s increasingly valuable in today’s digital age.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will dividing a VCF file remove any contact details?
A: No, as long as the splitting is done correctly, all data will be preserved.
Q: Can I split VCF or vCard files on a smartphone or iPhone?
A: While not commonly supported natively, you can use apps or transfer files to a computer for processing.
Q: What VCF version should I use?
A: VCF 3.0 is widely supported, but check your target platform for compatibility.
