Privacy Policy

Last updated: October 8, 2025

Introduction

ByeShorts is a minimal app and Safari extension designed to help you block YouTube Shorts and improve focus. This Privacy Policy explains how we handle your information. We are committed to protecting your privacy and store all data locally on your device. No personal information is collected, shared, or sent to external servers.

This policy applies to the ByeShorts app for iOS and macOS, including its Safari extension. By using ByeShorts, you agree to this policy. If you do not agree, please do not use the app.

Information We Collect

ByeShorts does not collect any personal information, such as your name, email address, location, or device identifiers. All data processed by the app is stored locally on your device and includes only:

  • Usage Statistics: Number of Shorts blocked, estimated time saved, time spent on YouTube pages, and Shorts visited. Stored locally for up to 30 days for Supporter, and 1 day for free users.
  • Focus Score Data (Supporter only): Metrics tracking blocking effectiveness, consumption control, time management, and self-awareness. Stored locally for up to 30 days.
  • Behavior Data (Supporter only): Preview awareness, mindless scrolling patterns, and ignored time limits. Used to calculate Focus Score. Stored locally for up to 30 days.
  • Settings: User preferences including blocking toggles, channel exceptions, time goals, redirect preferences, and Supporter features. Stored until you delete them.

No data is transmitted off your device, and we do not use cookies, trackers, or analytics tools. Supporter subscriptions are handled directly by Apple through the App Store, and we do not receive or store any payment information.

How We Use Your Information

The data stored by ByeShorts is used exclusively to provide the app's core functionality:

  • Blocking YouTube Shorts based on your settings and preferences
  • Displaying usage statistics to help you understand your viewing habits
  • Calculating Focus Score (Supporter only) to track digital wellness progress
  • Providing awareness nudges when approaching time goals (Supporter only)
  • Enabling channel exceptions for subscribed creators (Supporter only)
  • Implementing smart redirects based on your preferences (Supporter only)

We do not use your data for marketing, advertising, or any other purpose. All processing happens locally on your device. Data older than 30 days is automatically deleted to optimize storage and performance.

Sharing Your Information

We do not share, sell, or disclose any data to third parties. Since everything is stored locally, no data leaves your device.

Data Security

Your data is stored securely using Apple's built-in mechanisms, such as UserDefaults and App Groups for the app, and browser.storage.local for the extension. We limit data to what's necessary for the app to function. However, no system is completely secure—please protect your device with a passcode and keep software updated.

Data Retention

ByeShorts stores all data locally on your device. The retention period differs by plan:

  • Free users: 1-day retention for blocks counter
  • Supporters: 30-day retention for all usage statistics, focus score history, behavior tracking, and time records

Older data is automatically cleaned up to optimize performance and storage. Your settings and preferences persist until you delete them or uninstall the app. You can reset all data at any time using the "Delete All Data" button in the About section, which clears settings and stats, restoring the app to its initial state. Note: Supporter subscription status is managed by Apple and may require restoration via the App Store after deletion.

Your Rights and Controls

You have full control over your data:

  • Access: View your settings and stats directly in the app.
  • Deletion: Use the "Delete All Data" button to erase everything locally.

No accounts or logins are required, so no further rights requests are needed.

If you have questions about your data, contact us at support@byeshorts.app.

Children's Privacy

ByeShorts is not intended for children under 13 years old. We do not knowingly collect data from children. If you believe a child has used the app, please contact us to delete any data.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy if the app changes (e.g., new features). Changes will be posted here with a new effective date. Continued use of the app after changes means you accept them.

Contact Us

For questions about this policy, visit our support page.

For Apple's Standard EULA, please refer to Apple's Developer Agreement.