Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 8, 2026

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Locally Stored Data

Serene stores the following information locally on your device using Realm Database:

• Meditation Sessions: Duration, start/end times, ambient sound preferences, and optional session notes
• Journal Entries: Daily mood ratings (1-5 scale), gratitude items, and personal reflections
• Progress Statistics: Total minutes meditated, session counts, current/longest streaks, and average session length
• App Preferences: Theme selection, sound settings, notification preferences, and volume levels

1.2 Data We Do NOT Collect

Serene does not collect or transmit:

• Personal identification information (name, email, phone number)
• Location data or GPS coordinates
• Device identifiers or advertising IDs
• Usage analytics or tracking data
• Contacts, photos, or other device information

2. How We Use Your Information

All data stored by Serene is used exclusively on your device to:

• Track your meditation practice and progress over time
• Calculate statistics such as streaks, averages, and totals
• Display weekly activity charts and achievement milestones
• Maintain your journal entries and mood history
• Preserve your app settings and preferences

3. Data Storage and Security

3.1 Local Storage

All data is stored locally on your device using Realm Database, a secure mobile database solution. Your data never leaves your device unless you explicitly choose to back it up or export it.

3.2 Data Backup

If you use your device's automatic backup features (such as iCloud on iOS or Google Drive on Android), your Serene data may be included in those backups. These backups are controlled by your device's operating system and are subject to Apple's or Google's privacy policies.

3.3 Data Security

We implement industry-standard security practices:

• Data encryption at rest using Realm's built-in encryption capabilities
• No network transmission of personal data
• Regular security updates and patches

4. Third-Party Services

4.1 Daily Wisdom Quotes

Serene fetches daily wisdom quotes from the ZenQuotes API (zenquotes.io). This service may log your IP address for rate limiting purposes. No personal information is transmitted. If the API is unavailable, the app falls back to locally stored Buddhist verses from the Dhammapada.

4.2 No Analytics or Tracking

Serene does not use any third-party analytics services, advertising networks, or tracking tools. We have no way of knowing how you use the app or what data you enter.

5. Your Data Rights

Because all data is stored locally on your device, you have complete control:

• Access: You can access all your data directly within the app
• Export: Future versions may include data export functionality
• Delete: You can clear all data by uninstalling the app or using in-app data management features
• Portability: Your data is stored in standard formats that can be accessed if needed

6. Children's Privacy

Serene does not knowingly collect any information from children under 13. The app is designed for general audiences and does not require any personal information to function. Parents and guardians may review and delete any information their children may have entered into the app by accessing the device directly.

7. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or for legal, operational, or regulatory reasons. When we make changes:

• The "Effective Date" at the top of this policy will be updated
• Significant changes will be communicated through in-app notifications
• The updated policy will be available within the app

8. Data Deletion

To delete all your data from Serene:

• Uninstall the app from your device (this removes all local data)
• If you've backed up your device, delete the backup or restore from a backup made before using Serene
• No data remains on any external servers because we never collect it

9. International Users

Serene is available worldwide. Since all data is stored locally on your device, no data crosses international borders unless you physically move your device or use cloud backup services provided by your device manufacturer.

10. Open Source and Transparency

Serene is committed to transparency. You can verify our privacy practices by:

• Reviewing the app's source code (if open source)
• Checking your device's network activity (you'll see no data transmission except the optional ZenQuotes API)
• Examining the app's permissions (we request minimal permissions)

12. Your Consent

By using Serene, you consent to this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with this policy, please do not use the app.

© 2026 Serene. All rights reserved.