Simple Captions Privacy Policy

Introduction

Clever Pixel, LLC ("we," "our," or "us") operates Simple Captions, an iOS application designed to provide real-time conversation captions for the hearing impaired community. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our mobile application.

Information We Collect

Audio Data

Simple Captions requires microphone access to function. We collect:

• Real-time audio: Audio captured from your device's microphone for transcription purposes
• Speech recognition data: Audio processed through speech recognition services to generate captions

Usage Information

• App usage statistics and performance metrics
• Crash reports and error logs
• Feature usage patterns

Device Information

• Device type and model
• iOS version
• App version
• Language preferences

Account Information (if applicable)

• Apple ID (if you sign in with Apple)
• Subscription status (if you have a premium subscription)

How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide real-time speech-to-text transcription services
• Generate and display captions for conversations
• Improve the accuracy and performance of our speech recognition
• Diagnose and fix technical issues
• Enhance app functionality and user experience
• Process subscription payments (if applicable)
• Comply with legal obligations

Audio Processing and Storage

Local Processing: Audio captured by Simple Captions is processed locally on your device whenever possible. We prioritize on-device speech recognition to minimize data transmission and protect your privacy.

Cloud Processing: Some features may require cloud-based speech recognition services for improved accuracy. When cloud processing is used:

• Audio data is transmitted securely to third-party speech recognition providers
• Audio is processed in real-time and not stored by these providers
• We do not retain audio recordings after transcription is complete

Caption Storage: Caption transcripts may be stored locally on your device for your convenience. You can delete stored transcripts at any time through the app settings.

Third-Party Services

Simple Captions uses the following third-party services:

Apple Speech Recognition

We use Apple's Speech Recognition framework (SFSpeechRecognizer) for on-device transcription. Audio processed through Apple's services is subject to Apple's privacy practices. For more information, see Apple's Privacy Policy.

Cloud Speech Recognition Services

For enhanced accuracy, we may use cloud-based speech recognition services. These services process audio in real-time and do not store audio data. All audio transmission is encrypted.

Analytics Services

We use analytics services to understand app usage and improve functionality. These services collect anonymized usage data and do not include audio content.

Payment Processing

If you purchase a subscription, payment processing is handled by Apple through the App Store. We do not collect or store payment information.

Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your information. Audio data transmitted to cloud services is encrypted in transit. We prioritize on-device processing to minimize data transmission. However, no method of transmission or storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

Data Retention

We do not retain audio recordings after transcription is complete. Caption transcripts stored locally on your device remain until you delete them. Usage analytics data is retained in anonymized form for up to 24 months. You can request deletion of your data at any time by contacting us.

Your Rights

Depending on your location, you may have certain rights regarding your personal information:

• The right to access your personal information
• The right to request deletion of your data
• The right to opt-out of certain data collection
• The right to data portability
• The right to withdraw consent for microphone access (note: this will disable app functionality)

To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided below. You can also manage microphone permissions through your iOS device settings.

Children's Privacy

Simple Captions is not directed to individuals under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe we have collected information from a child, please contact us immediately.

Permissions

Simple Captions requires the following permissions:

• Microphone Access: Required for capturing audio for transcription. You can revoke this permission at any time in iOS Settings, but this will disable app functionality.
• Speech Recognition: Required for converting speech to text. This uses Apple's on-device speech recognition when available.

All permissions are requested with clear explanations of why they are needed. You can manage these permissions through your iOS device settings at any time.

Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any material changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page and updating the "Last updated" date. You are advised to review this Privacy Policy periodically for any changes. Continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, wish to exercise your rights regarding your personal information, or have concerns about how we handle audio data, please contact us: