GroceryMate Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy describes how GroceryMate ("we", "us", or "our") collects, uses, and shares your information when you use our mobile application. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring a transparent data handling process.

1. Information We Collect

By using GroceryMate, we may collect the following types of information to provide and improve our service:

• Device Information: We collect information about your mobile device, including model, operating system version, and unique device identifiers to ensure app compatibility and security.
• Usage Data: Information on how you interact with the app, such as features used, pantry inventory patterns, and time spent, helping us optimize the user experience.
• Camera & Audio: With your explicit permission, we access your camera for barcode/text scanning and your microphone for voice-to-text commands. This data is processed locally on your device and is not transmitted to our servers.
• Advertising IDs: We use industry-standard Advertising IDs to serve and measure non-intrusive advertisements.

2. Third-Party Services

We partner with several trusted service providers to enhance app functionality and support our free services:

• Google AdMob: Facilitates the display of advertisements. AdMob may use your Advertising ID to serve relevant ads based on your interests.
• Firebase Analytics: Provides us with aggregated, anonymous data to understand app performance and crashes.
• Google Play Services: Essential for core app functionality, including updates and authentication.

3. Data Storage & Privacy

We prioritize a Local-First data architecture. Most of your application data (shopping lists, pantry items, recipes) is stored securely on your device using an encrypted Room database. If you enable cloud backup, your data is stored in your personal Google Drive account, ensuring you maintain full ownership and control.

4. Your Permissions

You have full control over the permissions GroceryMate requests. You can manage these at any time via your device settings:

• Notifications: Used to alert you about expiring grocery items or low stock.
• Camera: Required for the quick-add barcode scanner.
• Microphone: Required for adding items via voice.

5. Children's Privacy

Our application is not intended for use by children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personally identifiable information from children. If you become aware that a child has provided us with personal data, please contact us immediately.

6. Changes to This Policy

We may update our Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices or for legal reasons. We will notify you of any significant changes by updating the "Effective Date" at the top of this policy.

7. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please reach out to our support team: