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Terms and Conditions

Last Updated: January 28, 2026

1. Agreement to Terms

By downloading, installing, or using Walk Buddy (the "App"), you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, do not use the App.

These Terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you ("User," "you," or "your") and Walk Buddy ("we," "us," or "our") regarding your use of the App.

2. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. We will notify you of any material changes by posting the new Terms within the App or by sending you a notification. Your continued use of the App after such changes constitutes your acceptance of the modified Terms.

3. Eligibility

You must be at least 13 years of age to use the App. If you are between 13 and 18 years of age (or the age of majority in your jurisdiction), you may only use the App with the consent and supervision of a parent or legal guardian who agrees to be bound by these Terms.

By using the App, you represent and warrant that you meet these eligibility requirements.

4. Description of Service

Walk Buddy is a health and fitness application that:

  • Tracks your daily step count using Apple HealthKit data
  • Provides a virtual pet companion that requires daily walking activity to remain healthy
  • Sends daily reminder notifications to encourage walking
  • Offers optional premium features through in-app purchases
  • Gamifies walking and fitness activities to promote healthy habits

The App is designed to motivate and encourage physical activity. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

5. Account and Registration

5.1 Onboarding

Upon first use, you will complete an onboarding process to:

  • Set your preferred notification time
  • Customize your walking goals
  • Name your virtual pet companion
  • Grant necessary permissions

5.2 Data Accuracy

You are responsible for providing accurate information during onboarding and for updating your preferences as needed within the App settings.

6. Health Data Collection and Use

6.1 HealthKit Integration

The App integrates with Apple HealthKit to access your step count data. By using the App, you grant permission for the App to:

  • Read your daily step count from HealthKit
  • Access historical step data for display purposes
  • Optionally write step data to HealthKit for debugging purposes (development mode only)

6.2 Purpose of Data Collection

Step count data is used exclusively to:

  • Display your daily walking progress
  • Determine your virtual pet's health status
  • Calculate whether you have met your daily step goal (default: 5,000 steps)
  • Track milestones and achievements

6.3 Health Data Storage

Health data collected from HealthKit is:

  • Stored locally on your device only
  • Not transmitted to our servers
  • Not shared with third parties
  • Not used for advertising purposes

6.4 No Medical Advice

The App is for informational and motivational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any fitness program or making health-related decisions.

6.5 Limitations

Step count accuracy depends on your device's sensors and HealthKit data. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of step count data. The App is not a substitute for professional fitness tracking devices or medical monitoring equipment.

7. Virtual Pet Feature

7.1 Pet Lifecycle

Your virtual pet companion:

  • Is created ("born") when you first start using the App
  • Requires a minimum number of daily steps to remain healthy (default: 5,000 steps)
  • May "pass away" if daily step goals are not met
  • Can be "revived" by resuming regular walking activity

7.2 No Real Animals

The virtual pet is a digital gamification feature only. No actual animals are involved, harmed, or affected by your use of the App.

7.3 Pet Data

Pet lifecycle data (birth date, age, milestones) is stored locally on your device using AsyncStorage and is not transmitted to our servers.

8. Premium Features and Subscriptions

8.1 Buddy Insurance

The App offers an optional premium subscription called "Buddy Insurance" which may provide:

  • Protection for your virtual pet
  • Additional features and benefits
  • Enhanced app functionality

8.2 Payment Processing

All payments are processed through Apple's in-app purchase system. By purchasing a subscription, you agree to Apple's App Store Terms of Service and payment terms.

8.3 Subscription Terms

  • Subscriptions are billed annually or as otherwise specified at the time of purchase
  • Payment will be charged to your Apple ID account at confirmation of purchase
  • Subscriptions automatically renew unless auto-renew is turned off at least 24 hours before the end of the current period
  • Your account will be charged for renewal within 24 hours prior to the end of the current period
  • You can manage and cancel subscriptions in your Apple ID account settings
  • No refunds are provided for unused portions of a subscription term

8.4 Free Trial

If a free trial is offered:

  • You may be automatically charged the subscription price after the trial period ends
  • You can cancel at any time during the trial period to avoid charges
  • Cancellation must be completed at least 24 hours before the trial period ends

8.5 Price Changes

We reserve the right to change subscription prices at any time. Price changes will not affect existing subscriptions until renewal.

8.6 Consumable Purchases

The App may offer one-time consumable in-app purchases. These purchases:

  • Are non-refundable
  • Cannot be transferred between devices or accounts
  • Are consumed immediately upon use

9. Push Notifications

9.1 Notification Types

The App sends local push notifications to:

  • Remind you to complete your daily walk
  • Notify you of your virtual pet's status
  • Provide motivational messages

9.2 Notification Permissions

You must grant notification permissions to receive these reminders. You can disable notifications at any time through:

  • Your device's Settings app
  • The App's settings menu

9.3 Notification Schedule

Default notification time is 6:00 PM daily, but you can customize this time during onboarding or in settings.

10. Data Collection and Privacy

10.1 Analytics

The App uses Mixpanel analytics to collect usage data, including:

  • App opens and closes
  • Feature usage and interactions
  • Onboarding completion steps
  • Virtual pet milestones and events
  • Error events and crash reports
  • General app performance metrics

10.2 Data Collected

We collect and process the following data:

  • Device Information: Device type, operating system version, app version
  • Usage Data: Features used, time spent in app, navigation patterns
  • Performance Data: Error logs, crash reports, loading times
  • User Preferences: Notification settings, walking goals, pet name
  • Event Data: Pet lifecycle events, onboarding progress, milestone achievements

10.3 Data Storage

  • Health data (step counts) is stored locally on your device only
  • User preferences and pet data are stored locally using AsyncStorage
  • Analytics data is transmitted to Mixpanel's servers
  • Subscription status is managed by RevenueCat

10.4 Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal data. Data may be shared with:

  • Mixpanel: For analytics and app improvement purposes
  • RevenueCat: For subscription and payment processing
  • Apple: As required for HealthKit integration and App Store functionality

10.5 Data Retention

  • Local data remains on your device until you delete the App
  • Analytics data is retained according to Mixpanel's data retention policies
  • You can request deletion of your data by contacting us (see Section 19)

10.6 Privacy Policy

For detailed information about how we collect, use, and protect your data, please review our Privacy Policy (if applicable and separately provided).

11. User Responsibilities

You agree to:

  • Provide accurate information during onboarding and setup
  • Use the App in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
  • Not attempt to reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the App
  • Not use the App for any unlawful purpose
  • Not interfere with or disrupt the App's functionality
  • Not attempt to gain unauthorized access to any part of the App
  • Keep your device's operating system updated for security purposes

12. Prohibited Conduct

You may not:

  • Use the App in any way that violates applicable laws or regulations
  • Impersonate any person or entity
  • Transmit any viruses, malware, or harmful code
  • Attempt to manipulate step count data to exploit the App's features
  • Use automated systems or bots to interact with the App
  • Collect or harvest data from the App without permission
  • Modify, adapt, or hack the App
  • Access the App through unauthorized third-party applications

13. Intellectual Property Rights

13.1 Ownership

The App, including all content, features, functionality, software, graphics, user interface, and trademarks, is owned by Walk Buddy and is protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws.

13.2 License

Subject to your compliance with these Terms, we grant you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable license to download, install, and use the App on your personal iOS device solely for your personal, non-commercial use.

13.3 Restrictions

You may not:

  • Copy, modify, or create derivative works of the App
  • Distribute, sell, lease, rent, or sublicense the App
  • Remove or alter any copyright, trademark, or proprietary notices
  • Use the App's intellectual property for commercial purposes

13.4 User Content

The App does not collect or store user-generated content beyond locally stored preferences and pet names. Any data you input (such as your pet's name) remains your property but is stored only on your device.

14. Third-Party Services

14.1 Apple HealthKit

The App integrates with Apple HealthKit. Your use of HealthKit is subject to Apple's Terms of Service and Apple's health data policies.

14.2 RevenueCat

Subscription management is provided by RevenueCat. Your subscription data is subject to RevenueCat's terms and privacy policy.

14.3 Mixpanel

Analytics services are provided by Mixpanel. Data collected through Mixpanel is subject to Mixpanel's terms and privacy policy.

14.4 No Endorsement

We do not endorse or assume responsibility for third-party services. Your interactions with third parties are solely between you and the third party.

15. Disclaimers and Limitations of Liability

15.1 "AS IS" Basis

The App is provided on an "as is" and "as available" basis without warranties of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, or security.

15.2 No Guarantees

We do not warrant that:

  • The App will meet your requirements or expectations
  • The App will be uninterrupted, timely, secure, or error-free
  • The results obtained from using the App will be accurate or reliable
  • Any errors or defects will be corrected
  • Step count data will be accurate or complete

15.3 Health and Safety Disclaimer

The App is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any fitness program. We are not liable for any health-related injuries, damages, or losses resulting from your use of the App.

15.4 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, in no event shall Walk Buddy, its officers, directors, employees, or agents be liable for:

  • Any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages
  • Any loss of profits, revenue, data, or use
  • Any physical injuries or health-related damages
  • Any damages resulting from your use or inability to use the App
  • Any damages resulting from errors, inaccuracies, or omissions in App data
  • Any damages resulting from unauthorized access to your data

Whether based on warranty, contract, tort (including negligence), or any other legal theory, even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages.

15.5 Maximum Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, our total liability to you for all claims arising from or related to the App shall not exceed the amount you paid us in the twelve (12) months preceding the event giving rise to liability, or one hundred dollars ($100), whichever is greater.

15.6 Jurisdictional Limitations

Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of certain warranties or liabilities. In such jurisdictions, our liability will be limited to the maximum extent permitted by law.

16. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Walk Buddy, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and affiliates from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, expenses, or fees (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from:

  • Your use or misuse of the App
  • Your violation of these Terms
  • Your violation of any third-party rights, including intellectual property rights
  • Your violation of any applicable laws or regulations
  • Any health-related injuries or damages you suffer while using the App
  • Any false or misleading information you provide

17. Termination

17.1 Termination by You

You may stop using the App at any time by deleting it from your device. Deleting the App will permanently remove all locally stored data, including your virtual pet's data and preferences.

17.2 Termination by Us

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your access to the App at any time, with or without notice, for:

  • Violation of these Terms
  • Fraudulent, abusive, or illegal activity
  • Extended periods of inactivity
  • Technical or security reasons
  • Discontinuation of the App

17.3 Effect of Termination

Upon termination:

  • Your license to use the App immediately terminates
  • You must delete the App from your device
  • Sections that by their nature should survive termination shall survive (including Sections 11, 13, 15, 16, and 18)

17.4 Subscription Refunds

Termination does not entitle you to a refund of any subscription fees. Active subscriptions will continue until the end of the current billing period.

18. Dispute Resolution

18.1 Informal Resolution

If you have any dispute with us, you agree to first contact us and attempt to resolve the dispute informally for at least 30 days before initiating any formal proceedings.

18.2 Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [Your Jurisdiction], without regard to its conflict of law provisions.

18.3 Arbitration

Any dispute arising from these Terms or your use of the App shall be resolved through binding arbitration in accordance with [applicable arbitration rules], except that you may assert claims in small claims court if your claims qualify.

18.4 Class Action Waiver

You agree that any dispute resolution proceedings will be conducted only on an individual basis and not in a class, consolidated, or representative action. You waive your right to participate in a class action lawsuit or class-wide arbitration.

18.5 Exceptions

Either party may seek injunctive or other equitable relief in any court of competent jurisdiction to protect intellectual property rights.

19. General Provisions

19.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms constitute the entire agreement between you and Walk Buddy regarding your use of the App and supersede all prior agreements and understandings.

19.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

19.3 Waiver

Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.

19.4 Assignment

You may not assign or transfer these Terms or your rights under these Terms without our prior written consent. We may assign these Terms without restriction.

19.5 No Agency

Nothing in these Terms creates any partnership, joint venture, employment, or agency relationship between you and Walk Buddy.

19.6 Force Majeure

We shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performance due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including acts of God, natural disasters, war, terrorism, riots, labor disputes, or technical failures.

19.7 Apple Requirements

As the App is distributed through the Apple App Store:

  • Apple is not a party to these Terms
  • Apple has no obligation to provide maintenance or support services
  • Apple is not responsible for addressing any claims relating to the App
  • You agree to comply with all applicable third-party terms when using the App

19.8 Export Compliance

You agree to comply with all applicable export and import laws and regulations when using the App.

20. Contact Information

If you have any questions, concerns, or complaints about these Terms or the App, please contact us at:

Walk Buddy

Email: [email protected]

For subscription-related inquiries, you may also access the Customer Center within the App.

21. California Privacy Rights

If you are a California resident, you have certain rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), including:

  • The right to know what personal information is collected
  • The right to request deletion of personal information
  • The right to opt-out of the sale of personal information (Note: We do not sell personal information)

To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information in Section 20.

22. Children's Privacy

The App is not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us immediately, and we will take steps to delete such information.

23. International Users

The App is operated from [Your Country/Region]. If you access the App from outside this jurisdiction, you are responsible for compliance with local laws, including data transfer regulations.

24. Updates and Availability

24.1 App Updates

We may release updates, patches, or new versions of the App from time to time. You agree to install updates promptly to maintain security and functionality.

24.2 Service Availability

We do not guarantee that the App will always be available or uninterrupted. We may suspend or discontinue the App at any time without liability.

24.3 Feature Changes

We reserve the right to modify, add, or remove features at any time without prior notice.

25. Acknowledgment

By downloading, installing, or using the App, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.

End of Terms and Conditions

For questions or concerns, please contact us at [email protected]