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Privacy Policy

Last updated: December 2025
Channel Media, Inc.

1. Introduction

Channel ("we," "our," "us") provides a mobile application that streams independent radio stations and enables public chat rooms.

Channel is designed to be anonymous by default. We do not collect email addresses, phone numbers, passwords, or advertising identifiers.

This Privacy Policy describes what we collect, why we collect it, and how you can contact us with questions.

By using Channel, you agree to this policy.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Information You Provide

Chat Messages
Messages you send in a public chat are stored in Firestore and visible to all users tuned to that station.

Username (Optional)
You may choose a username (2–20 alphanumeric characters). Usernames are stored in Firestore so others can see who is speaking.

2.2 Information Collected Automatically

Channel does not collect personal identifiers or tracking data.

Operational data collected includes:

• Anonymous Firebase User ID — required for chat.
• Firebase infrastructure logs — Google Cloud may log IP addresses for security/abuse prevention.
• Device & app details in reports — Only if you shake your device to report something:
  • Device model
  • iOS version
  • App version

No screenshots or logs are sent automatically.

2.3 Optional Automatic Activity Messages

Channel includes an optional feature that posts small messages in the public chat based on your activity:

• When you tap the Love button for a show, the message "username is loving showname" may be posted.
• When you listen to the same show for 35 minutes, the message "username is locked in" may be posted.

These messages:

• are optional and can be turned on or off in Settings
• are triggered locally on your device
• do not send logs, diagnostics, analytics, or background reports
• contain no personal information beyond your chosen username
• are visible publicly to users in that station's chat

We never send screenshots or system logs automatically.

3. How We Use Information

We use data only to:

• Enable chat functionality
• Display usernames
• Maintain app performance
• Investigate reports of misuse
• Protect users and prevent abuse

We do not use your data for:

• Advertising
• Analytics
• Profiling
• Selling to third parties

4. Data Sharing

We do not sell your data.
We do not share personal data beyond what is necessary for core functionality.

4.1 Firebase (Google)

• Stores chat messages
• Stores username claims
• Provides anonymous authentication

4.2 GitHub Pages

Hosts non-sensitive metadata (e.g., schedules). Does not store user data.

5. Data Retention

• Chat messages: Stored indefinitely in Firestore, but the app only displays the last hour.
• Username: Persists in Firestore until removed by a user request.
• Local preferences: Stored only on your device and deleted when you uninstall the app.

6. User Choices & Controls

You may:

• Use Channel without creating an account
• Avoid chat entirely
• Choose not to provide a username
• Request deletion of your username or specific chat messages
• Uninstall the app to clear all local data

Requests should be sent to support@channel-app.com.

7. Children's Privacy

Channel is intended for users 13 years and older. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13.

8. Security

We use Firebase Authentication, Firestore rules, and standard platform protections. No system is perfectly secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy. Changes will be posted on this page with a new "Last Updated" date.

10. Contact Us

Channel Media, Inc.
Email: info@channel-app.com
For reports or safety issues: support@channel-app.com