Privacy Policy for Pocket Ring

Effective Date: September 18, 2026

Pocket Ring ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how information is handled in the Pocket Ring mobile application.

1. Prominent Disclosures & Permission Usage

Before requesting runtime permissions or accessing sensitive device features, Pocket Ring displays an in-app Prominent Disclosure detailing what feature requires access, what data is accessed, and how it is processed locally on your device. We use the following permissions strictly for local app automation:

• Phone State (READ_PHONE_STATE): Required to detect incoming call states (ringing/idle) so Pocket Ring can boost ringer volume when the device is detected inside a pocket or bag. Call data is processed locally in real time and is never recorded or transmitted.
• Call Log Access (READ_CALL_LOG): Required on Android 9+ to identify incoming caller phone numbers for Priority Contact ringtone overrides and Missed Call Auto-Reply targeting. Caller numbers are evaluated strictly in real time on-device and are never recorded, stored externally, or shared.
• Contacts (READ_CONTACTS): Used solely to identify "Priority Contacts" so designated callers can bypass silent mode or trigger specific volume rules. Contact information remains encrypted in local device storage and is never uploaded or shared.
• SMS (SEND_SMS): Used exclusively to send automated text replies to missed calls when you explicitly enable the "Auto-Reply" feature. SMS messages are sent directly from your device, and message content is processed strictly locally.
• Activity Recognition (ACTIVITY_RECOGNITION): Used to detect motion states (e.g., walking, driving) to optimize sensor polling and distinguish between a pocket versus a table. Motion data is processed on-device in real time.
• Bluetooth Connect (BLUETOOTH_CONNECT): Used on Android 12+ to detect car Bluetooth audio connections for automatic Vehicle Mode activation. Bluetooth device names are evaluated locally and are never stored or shared.
• Location Access (ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION, ACCESS_COARSE_LOCATION, ACCESS_BACKGROUND_LOCATION): Pocket Ring collects location data to enable Quiet Zones (Geofences at Home, Office, or Desk) where monitoring is automatically paused even when the app is closed or not in use. All location coordinates are processed strictly locally on your device and are never transmitted to any server.
• System Notifications (POST_NOTIFICATIONS): Used to display a persistent status notification ensuring active pocket monitoring remains reliable in the background.
• Notification Listener (BIND_NOTIFICATION_LISTENER_SERVICE): Used to detect active turn-by-turn navigation apps (e.g., Google Maps) to automatically adjust media and alert volumes during trips. Notification contents are parsed locally and never stored or shared.

2. Background Data Processing

To provide continuous volume protection when your phone is in your pocket or when entering designated location profiles, Pocket Ring runs local background tasks. Location coordinates and sensor inputs evaluated in the background are processed immediately in memory on your device and are never uploaded, logged to external services, or shared.

3. Data Storage & Security

All application configuration settings, priority contact lists, and local event logs are stored in a private, encrypted database inside your device's app-private storage sandbox. No external app can access this data, and all data is permanently erased if you uninstall Pocket Ring or clear app data via Android System Settings.

4. No Third-Party Analytics or Tracking

Pocket Ring contains zero third-party analytics SDKs, advertising networks, or tracking frameworks. We do not track your behavioral habits, location history, or device telemetry.

5. In-App Purchases

Pocket Ring utilizes the official Google Play Billing Library for optional premium upgrades. All financial transactions and payment processing are handled securely by Google Play. Pocket Ring never receives, processes, or stores your credit card or billing details.

6. User Choice & Permission Control

You maintain full authority over all permissions and features. You can enable or disable any automation feature, clear local history logs, or revoke Android permissions at any time via the in-app settings or Android System Settings.

7. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy or our local-first privacy practices, please contact us at:
Email: sandeep.s.emekar@gmail.com