Terms of Service for The Traces App

Last Updated: February 7, 2026 Effective Date: February 7, 2026

Welcome to The Traces

Thank you for choosing The Traces to support your journey toward your goals. These Terms of Service ("Terms") explain the rules for using our app, but we've written them in plain language because we believe legal agreements shouldn't be intimidating.

By downloading, installing, or using The Traces, you agree to these Terms. If you don't agree, please don't use the app (but we hope you'll stay!).

Our Philosophy

The Traces is built on the belief that just showing up is enough. We apply this same principle to these Terms - they're here to set clear expectations and protect both you and us, not to restrict or overwhelm you.

1. What The Traces Is (and Isn't)

1.1 What We Provide

The Traces is a personal goal-tracking app that helps you:

  • Create and manage goals
  • Log entries toward your goals
  • Organize progress with tags and notes
  • View statistics and insights about your progress
  • Customize your experience (themes, notifications, security)
  • Optionally subscribe to Pro or Premium features

1.2 What We Don't Provide

The Traces is NOT:

  • Professional advice (medical, psychological, financial, legal, etc.)
  • A substitute for professional help or therapy
  • A guaranteed solution to achieve your goals
  • Responsible for the content you create (goals, notes, etc.)

Your goals and progress are personal. We provide the tools; you create the success.

1.3 How the App Works

  • Local Storage: Your data (goals, entries, notes, tags) is stored on your device
  • No Cloud Sync: We don't sync your data to our servers (you remain in control)
  • Optional iCloud Backup: If you enable iCloud Backup on your iPhone, your data may be backed up to your iCloud account (controlled by you, not us)
  • No Account Required: You don't need to create an account or log in
  • Privacy-First: See our Privacy Policy for details

2. Your Rights to Use The Traces

2.1 License Grant

We grant you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable license to:

  • Download and install The Traces on your personal devices
  • Use the app for personal, non-commercial purposes
  • Use features available in your subscription tier (Free, Pro, or Premium)

2.2 What You Can't Do

You may not:

  • Share or distribute the app outside the App Store
  • Reverse engineer, decompile, or modify the app
  • Use the app for illegal purposes
  • Attempt to bypass subscription features without payment
  • Use automated tools to interact with the app (bots, scripts, etc.)
  • Sell, rent, or license your access to others
  • Remove or alter any copyright or proprietary notices

Why these restrictions? They protect the app's integrity and ensure everyone has a fair, secure experience.

3. Subscription Plans

3.1 Available Tiers

Free

  • Core features: Create goals, log entries, add tags and notes
  • Basic statistics and insights
  • No time limit, no credit card required

Pro (Paid Subscription)

  • All Free features, plus:
  • Advanced statistics and insights
  • Data export (CSV/JSON)
  • Premium themes and customization
  • Priority support
  • Additional features as we add them

Premium (Paid Subscription)

  • All Pro features, plus:
  • Future premium-only features as we develop them
  • Early access to new features
  • Highest priority support

Note: Features and pricing may change as we develop new capabilities. We'll notify you of any changes that affect your subscription.

3.2 Billing and Payment

  • Processed by Apple: All subscriptions are processed through the Apple App Store
  • Apple's Terms Apply: Your purchase is subject to Apple's Terms of Service
  • Pricing: Displayed in the app before purchase (varies by region)
  • Billing Cycle: Monthly or annual (as selected)
  • Auto-Renewal: Subscriptions renew automatically unless you cancel
  • Payment Method: Charged to your Apple ID account

3.3 Free Trials (If Offered)

If we offer a free trial:

  • You'll have access to paid features during the trial period
  • No charge until the trial ends
  • You'll be charged when the trial ends unless you cancel before then
  • Cancel anytime during the trial to avoid charges
  • One free trial per user (managed by Apple)

3.4 Cancellation

You can cancel anytime:

  1. Go to iPhone Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions
  2. Select The Traces
  3. Tap "Cancel Subscription"

After cancellation:

  • You keep access until the end of your current billing period
  • No refund for unused time in the current period (this is Apple's policy)
  • You won't be charged again
  • You can resubscribe anytime

3.5 Refunds

Refunds are handled by Apple, not us. To request a refund:

  1. Go to reportaproblem.apple.com
  2. Sign in with your Apple ID
  3. Find your The Traces purchase
  4. Select "Request a refund"

We can't process refunds directly. Apple has final say on refund approvals.

3.6 Price Changes

We may change subscription prices from time to time. If we do:

  • Existing subscribers: Your price is protected for at least 30 days
  • New subscribers: Pay the new price
  • Notification: We'll notify you of price changes via in-app message or App Store
  • Your choice: You can cancel before the new price takes effect

3.7 Changing Tiers

  • Upgrade: Takes effect immediately; you're charged the pro-rated difference
  • Downgrade: Takes effect at the end of your current billing period
  • Managed by Apple: Changes made through iPhone Settings > Subscriptions

4. Your Responsibilities

4.1 Your Content

You are responsible for:

  • The goals, entries, notes, and tags you create
  • Ensuring your content is legal and doesn't violate others' rights
  • Backing up your data (via iCloud or data export)
  • Keeping your device secure

4.2 Acceptable Use

You agree NOT to use The Traces to:

  • Create, store, or share illegal content
  • Violate anyone's intellectual property rights
  • Harass, threaten, or harm others
  • Spread malware or viruses
  • Violate any applicable laws

4.3 Age Requirements

  • 13+ in most countries
  • 16+ in the EU (GDPR requirement)
  • Parental consent required if under the age limit in your country

If you're under the age requirement without parental consent, please don't use the app.

4.4 Security

You're responsible for:

  • Keeping your device secure (passcode, biometrics)
  • If you enable Face ID/Touch ID/PIN in The Traces, keeping those credentials secure
  • Protecting your iCloud account (if using iCloud Backup)

We're not liable for unauthorized access due to your device being compromised.

5. Our Rights and Responsibilities

5.1 Intellectual Property

We own The Traces, including:

  • The app code, design, and features
  • The The Traces name, logo, and branding
  • All content we create (tutorials, help text, etc.)

You own your content:

  • Your goals, entries, notes, and tags belong to you
  • We never claim ownership of your personal data
  • You can export or delete your content anytime

5.2 Changes to the App

We may:

  • Add new features
  • Modify existing features (to improve them)
  • Remove features (rarely, but if necessary)
  • Fix bugs and improve performance
  • Update the app's design or user interface

We'll try to notify you of significant changes, but we're not required to get your permission for updates.

5.3 Service Availability

We strive to keep The Traces available 24/7, but:

  • No guarantees: The app may be unavailable due to maintenance, updates, or technical issues
  • Local app: Since data is stored on your device, most features work offline
  • Third-party services: Firebase, RevenueCat, or iCloud may experience downtime (outside our control)

We're not liable for temporary unavailability or service interruptions.

5.4 Support

We provide:

  • Email support: help.thetraces@yahoo.com
  • In-app help: Guides and FAQs (where available)
  • Priority support: For Pro and Premium subscribers

Response time:

  • Free users: 3-5 business days
  • Pro/Premium users: 1-2 business days (priority)

We'll do our best to help, but we can't guarantee specific response times or resolutions.

6. Disclaimers and Limitations

6.1 "As Is" Service

The Traces is provided "as is" and "as available" without warranties of any kind, including:

  • No guarantee the app will be error-free
  • No guarantee the app will meet your specific needs
  • No guarantee of uninterrupted access
  • No guarantee of specific results (achieving your goals is up to you!)

Translation: We work hard to make the app great, but we can't promise perfection.

6.2 Not Professional Advice

Important: The Traces is a tool for personal goal tracking, NOT:

  • Medical or mental health advice
  • Financial planning or investment advice
  • Legal, career, or professional counseling
  • A substitute for professional help

If you need professional help, please consult a qualified expert (therapist, doctor, financial advisor, etc.).

6.3 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, we (and our team, partners, and service providers) are NOT LIABLE for:

  • Lost data (back up your data!)
  • Lost profits or revenue
  • Emotional distress or psychological harm
  • Indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
  • Damages exceeding the amount you paid us in the last 12 months (or $50, whichever is greater)

Exception: This limitation doesn't apply to damages caused by our gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

6.4 Indemnification

You agree to defend and hold us harmless from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:

  • Your use of the app
  • Your violation of these Terms
  • Your violation of any laws or others' rights
  • Your content (goals, notes, etc.)

7. Data and Privacy

7.1 Your Data

  • You own your data: Goals, entries, notes, tags all belong to you
  • Local storage: Data stays on your device (we don't upload it to our servers)
  • Export anytime: Use the data export feature (Pro/Premium) to download your data
  • Delete anytime: Uninstalling the app deletes all local data

7.2 Privacy Policy

Our Privacy Policy explains:

  • What data we collect (analytics, crash reports)
  • How we use it (to improve the app)
  • Your privacy rights (opt-out of analytics)

Privacy Policy is separate from these Terms, but both apply when you use The Traces.

7.3 iCloud Backup

If you enable iCloud Backup on your iPhone:

  • Your The Traces data may be backed up to your iCloud account
  • You control this (iPhone Settings > iCloud > iCloud Backup)
  • iCloud backups are governed by Apple's Privacy Policy
  • We don't have access to your iCloud backups

8. Termination

8.1 You Can Stop Using The Traces Anytime

  • Delete the app from your device
  • Cancel your subscription (if applicable)
  • No questions asked, no penalties

8.2 We Can Terminate Your Access

We may suspend or terminate your access if:

  • You violate these Terms
  • You use the app for illegal purposes
  • You abuse our support team
  • We're required to by law

What happens if we terminate you:

  • Your subscription is cancelled (refunds subject to Apple's policy)
  • You must delete the app from your devices
  • Your data remains on your device (we can't remotely delete it)

We'll try to notify you before termination, but we're not required to.

8.3 Effect of Termination

After termination:

  • You lose the right to use The Traces
  • Sections of these Terms that should survive (like liability limitations) remain in effect
  • Your data stays on your device until you delete the app

9. Changes to These Terms

9.1 How We Update Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time due to:

  • New features or functionality
  • Changes in laws or regulations
  • Clarifications or improvements
  • Subscription plan changes

9.2 Notification

When we update these Terms:

  • We'll update the "Last Updated" date at the top
  • Significant changes: We'll notify you via in-app message
  • Minor changes: We'll update the document (check periodically)

9.3 Your Options

After we update the Terms:

  • Accept: Continue using the app = you accept the new Terms
  • Reject: Stop using the app and cancel your subscription

Continued use = acceptance of updated Terms.

10. Dispute Resolution

10.1 Contact Us First

If you have a problem or dispute:

  1. Email us: help.thetraces@yahoo.com
  2. Explain the issue: We'll work with you to resolve it
  3. Wait for response: We'll respond within 3-5 business days

Most issues can be resolved through friendly communication.

10.2 Informal Resolution

We both agree to try to resolve disputes informally before formal legal action.

10.3 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of Norway (where The Traces is developed), without regard to conflict of law principles.

10.4 Arbitration (If Required)

If we can't resolve a dispute informally:

10.5 Exceptions

The following claims are NOT subject to arbitration:

  • Small claims court matters (if eligible)
  • Intellectual property disputes
  • Injunctive relief (to stop harm)

11. General Legal Stuff

11.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement between you and us regarding The Traces.

11.2 Severability

If any part of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable:

  • That part is removed
  • The rest of the Terms remain in effect

11.3 Waiver

If we don't enforce a right under these Terms:

  • It doesn't mean we waive that right
  • We can still enforce it later

11.4 Assignment

You can't transfer these Terms to someone else (e.g., selling your device doesn't transfer your subscription).

We may transfer our rights and obligations to another company (e.g., if we're acquired), but we'll notify you first.

11.5 Force Majeure

We're not liable for delays or failures due to circumstances beyond our control:

  • Natural disasters
  • War or terrorism
  • Government actions
  • Internet or network failures
  • Pandemics or health emergencies

11.6 Export Compliance

You agree to comply with all applicable export laws and regulations when using The Traces.

11.7 No Partnership

These Terms don't create a partnership, joint venture, or employer-employee relationship between you and us.

12. Apple-Specific Terms

Since The Traces is distributed through the Apple App Store:

12.1 Acknowledgments

  • Apple is not a party to these Terms (this is between you and us)
  • Apple is not responsible for The Traces or its content
  • Apple has no obligation to provide support (contact us, not Apple)
  • Apple is not liable for any claims related to The Traces

12.2 Third-Party Beneficiary

Apple is a third-party beneficiary of these Terms and may enforce them against you.

12.3 Compliance

We represent and warrant that:

  • The Traces complies with all applicable laws
  • We have all necessary rights to license the app
  • The app doesn't violate any third-party rights

12.4 Subscription Terms

For subscriptions purchased through the App Store:

  • Payment is charged to your Apple ID account
  • Subscriptions auto-renew unless cancelled at least 24 hours before the end of the current period
  • Manage subscriptions in iPhone Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions
  • Refunds are handled by Apple (not us)

13. Future Features

The Traces is actively being developed. We may add new features such as:

  • Additional statistics and insights
  • More customization options
  • Collaboration features (sharing goals with friends - maybe!)
  • Integration with other apps or services
  • New subscription tiers or features

These Terms are written to cover future features, so they may reference capabilities not yet implemented. We'll notify you when significant new features are added.

14. Open Source and Third-Party Software

The Traces uses open-source libraries and third-party services:

  • Flutter: Licensed under BSD 3-Clause License
  • Firebase: Google's terms apply
  • RevenueCat: RevenueCat's terms apply
  • Other dependencies: See app's "About" section for full list

We respect and comply with all applicable open-source licenses.

15. Contact Information

Have questions about these Terms?

Email: help.thetraces@yahoo.com Website: thetraces.app Response Time: 3-5 business days (1-2 days for Pro/Premium)

Mailing Address (if required by law):

  • Company name: Westgaard Technologies
  • City and postal code: Lillestrøm, 2000
  • Country: Norway

16. Languages

These Terms are written in English. If we provide translations:

  • Translations are for convenience only
  • English version controls in case of conflicts
  • Legal disputes are resolved based on the English version

Summary (Not Legally Binding)

Quick reminder of key points:

  • Use The Traces for personal goal tracking
  • Your data stays on your device (you control it)
  • Subscriptions renew automatically (cancel anytime)
  • We may update features and these Terms
  • Be responsible with your content
  • Don't use the app for illegal purposes
  • We're not liable for lost data or unachieved goals
  • No professional advice provided

The full Terms above are the legally binding agreement. This summary is just for convenience.

Acceptance

By using The Traces, you confirm:

  • You've read and understood these Terms
  • You agree to be bound by these Terms
  • You're at least 13 years old (or 16 in the EU)
  • You have the legal capacity to enter into this agreement

Thank you for reading! We know legal documents aren't fun, but we appreciate you taking the time to understand how The Traces works.

Last Updated: February 7, 2026 Version: 1.0