Privacy Policy
Last updated: December 2025
TL;DR: Tethr is designed with privacy at its core. All your conversations stay on your device. We don't collect, store, or have access to your chat data. Period.
1. Introduction
Welcome to Tethr ("we," "our," or "us"). We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring you have a positive experience using our application. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our mobile application.
2. Our Privacy-First Approach
Tethr is built on a fundamental principle: your conversations are yours alone. Unlike many AI applications, Tethr operates entirely on your device using on-device AI technology. This means:
- All AI processing happens locally on your iPhone or iPad
- Your conversations are never sent to our servers
- We cannot read, access, or analyze your chat content
- Your data remains on your device unless you choose to back it up
3. Information We Collect
3.1 Information You Provide
- Account Information: If you create an account, we may collect your email address for account recovery and communication purposes.
- Purchase Information: When you make in-app purchases, Apple processes the transaction. We receive confirmation of your subscription status but not your payment details.
- Support Communications: If you contact us for support, we collect the information you provide in your communications.
3.2 Information Collected Automatically
- Device Information: Basic device information such as device type, operating system version, and app version for compatibility and troubleshooting purposes.
- Analytics Data: Anonymous, aggregated usage statistics to improve app performance (e.g., which features are most popular, crash reports). This data cannot be used to identify you personally.
- Performance Metrics: Basic performance metrics to help us optimize the app experience.
- Subscription Status: Subscription status as provided by Apple to manage your access to premium features.
3.3 Information We Do NOT Collect
- Your conversations with AI companions
- Your companion history or interaction data
- Your affinity information or relationship progress
- Your personal notes or journal entries
- Your companion preferences or personal traits
- Any identifying personal information beyond what you provide
4. How We Use Your Information
We use the limited information we collect to:
- Provide and maintain the Tethr service
- Process your subscription and purchases
- Send important updates about the app
- Respond to your support requests
- Improve app performance and fix bugs
- Comply with legal obligations
5. Data Storage and Security
5.1 On-Device Storage
All your conversations, companion relationships, and personal data are stored locally on your device using iOS's secure storage mechanisms. This data is protected by your device's security features, including Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.
5.2 iCloud Backup (Optional)
If you enable iCloud backup for Tethr, your data may be included in your iCloud backup. This backup is encrypted and protected by Apple's security measures. You can disable this in your device settings.
5.3 Our Security Measures
For the limited data we do collect (account information, analytics), we implement industry-standard security measures including encryption in transit and at rest.
6. Data Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information. We may share information only in the following circumstances:
- Service Providers: With trusted third parties who assist in operating our service (e.g., analytics providers), under strict confidentiality agreements.
- Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights and safety.
- Business Transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, with appropriate notice to users.
7. Your Rights and Choices
You have the right to:
- Access: Request information about what data we have about you.
- Delete: Delete your account and associated data from our servers.
- Opt-out: Disable analytics collection in app settings.
- Export: Export your local data from the app.
Since most of your data is stored locally on your device, you have direct control over it. You can delete the app to remove all local data.
8. Children's Privacy
Tethr is not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected information from a child under 13, please contact us immediately.
9. International Users
Tethr is operated from the United States. If you are accessing the app from outside the United States, please be aware that your information may be transferred to, stored, and processed in the United States.
10. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page and updating the "Last updated" date. Significant changes will be communicated through the app or via email.
11. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us at:
- Email: privacy@tethr.chat
- Support: support@tethr.chat
Questions? We're committed to transparency. If anything in this policy is unclear, please reach out and we'll be happy to explain.