1. Introduction
Digital Compass is a utility app that provides a digital compass, optional Qibla (direction to Mecca) guidance, calibration tools, themes, and optional premium features through in-app subscriptions. We designed the App to process most data on your device and to collect only what is necessary to provide these features.
By downloading, installing, or using the App, you agree to this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please do not use the App.
2. Information We Collect
We collect and process the following categories of information:
2.1 Device sensor data (compass)
The App reads your device’s magnetometer and orientation sensors to display compass heading, direction labels, and accuracy indicators. This sensor data is processed on your device in real time and is not transmitted to our servers.
2.2 Location data (Qibla feature only)
If you use the Qibla direction feature, the App requests access to your device’s location (while the App is in use) to calculate the bearing toward Mecca based on your geographic coordinates. Location data is used solely for this calculation on your device. We do not upload, store, or sell your precise location on our servers.
The compass feature does not require location access. You may deny location permission; in that case, Qibla-related features will not function, but other App features remain available where applicable.
2.3 App preferences (stored locally)
The App saves settings you choose—such as theme, language, accuracy tips, and sound feedback preferences—locally on your device using on-device storage (for example, UserDefaults on iOS). This information is not transmitted to us.
2.4 Apple Watch companion data
If you use the Apple Watch companion app, compass and Qibla features may access the same categories of sensor and location data on your watch. Language preference may be synchronized between your iPhone and Apple Watch through Apple’s WatchConnectivity framework. This sync occurs between your devices and is not sent to our servers.
2.5 Subscription and purchase information
Digital Compass Pro subscriptions and restore-purchase operations are processed by the platform store through which you obtained the App:
- Apple App Store (including in-app purchases on iPhone and Apple Watch where applicable)
- Google Play Store (where the App is distributed on Android)
We do not receive or store your payment card number or full billing details. The store provider (Apple or Google) processes payments and may provide us with limited transaction-related information (such as subscription status, product identifier, and purchase date) as needed to unlock premium features and honor restore requests. That information is handled according to the store provider’s privacy policies.
2.6 Information we do not collect
We do not require you to create an account. We do not knowingly collect:
- Name, email address, or phone number through the App itself
- Contacts, photos, microphone audio, or health data
- Advertising identifiers for targeted advertising (we do not serve third-party ads in the App)
- Analytics or crash-reporting data through third-party SDKs integrated for tracking purposes
3. How We Use Information
We use the information described above only to:
- Display compass heading, direction, and accuracy status
- Calculate and display Qibla direction when you enable that feature
- Remember your App settings and preferences on your device
- Provide, validate, and restore premium subscription features
- Improve reliability and security of the App
- Respond to support requests you send to us
- Comply with applicable law and platform requirements
We do not use your information for cross-app tracking or to sell your personal data.
4. Legal Bases for Processing (EEA, UK, and Similar Regions)
If you are in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, or another region that requires a legal basis, we rely on:
- Performance of a contract: to provide the App and subscription features you request
- Legitimate interests: to operate, secure, and improve the App, and to prevent fraud or abuse
- Consent: where required for location access or other device permissions you grant through your device settings
- Legal obligation: where we must comply with applicable laws or lawful requests
You may withdraw permission for location access at any time in your device settings.
6. Data Retention
Sensor and location data used for compass and Qibla features are processed in real time on your device and are not retained on our servers. App preferences remain on your device until you delete the App or reset your device data.
Subscription-related records provided by Apple or Google are retained as long as needed to manage your subscription, restore purchases, handle disputes, and meet legal and accounting obligations. Support emails are retained only as long as necessary to respond and resolve your inquiry.
7. Data Security
We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and organizational measures designed to protect information under our control. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure. You use the App at your own risk, and you are responsible for maintaining the security of your device.
8. Your Privacy Rights
Depending on your location, you may have the right to:
- Access personal information we hold about you
- Request correction or deletion of personal information
- Object to or restrict certain processing
- Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent
- Request portability of information you provided to us
- Opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information (we do not sell personal information)
Because most App data stays on your device, you can delete locally stored App data by uninstalling the App or clearing App data in your device settings. For subscription management, use your Apple ID or Google Play account settings.
California residents (CCPA/CPRA): We do not sell or share personal information as defined under California law. You may contact us to exercise applicable rights.
EEA/UK residents (GDPR): You may lodge a complaint with your local data protection authority. We encourage you to contact us first so we can address your concern.
To exercise your rights, email us at support@digitalcompass.app. We may need to verify your request before responding.
9. Children’s Privacy
The App is not directed to children under 13 (or the minimum age required in your jurisdiction). We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided personal information to us, please contact us and we will take steps to delete such information.
10. International Users
If you access the App from outside the country where our support operations are located, your information may be processed in countries with different data protection laws. Where required, we rely on appropriate safeguards for cross-border transfers.
11. Third-Party Services and Platform Policies
The App interacts with services controlled by third parties, including:
- Apple App Store, Apple In-App Purchase, and Apple Watch services
- Google Play Store and Google Play Billing (where applicable)
- Your device operating system (iOS, watchOS, or Android) for permissions and sensors
Your use of those services is governed by their terms and privacy policies. We encourage you to review Apple’s and Google’s privacy documentation. Links to third-party sites or services outside the App are not covered by this Privacy Policy.
12. Device Permissions
The App may request the following permissions:
- Location (While Using the App): required only for Qibla direction calculation
- Motion & orientation sensors: used for compass heading (typically no separate permission prompt on iOS)
You can change or revoke permissions at any time in your device settings. Some features may not work without the relevant permission.
13. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in the App, legal requirements, or platform policies. When we make material changes, we will post the revised policy at this URL and, where appropriate, provide notice within the App or through the app store listing. Your continued use of the App after changes become effective constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.
14. Contact Us
If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices, contact us at:
Digital Compass — Privacy
Email: support@digitalcompass.app
For App Store or Google Play subscription and billing questions, you may also contact Apple or Google support directly through your account settings.