Privacy Policy

Effective Date: July 29, 2026
Legal Entity: Hearten Systems Ltd
Jurisdiction: United Kingdom
Contact: Our Contact Page

At Hearten Systems Ltd, we believe software should be lean, respectful, and transparent. We do not engage in data monetization, intrusive telemetry, or covert user tracking. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, retain, and protect information across our website, applications (including macOS and iOS native software), and technical services in accordance with UK GDPR, international data protection laws, and Apple App Store Review Guidelines (Guideline 5.1 — Privacy).

1. Data Collection & Application Architecture

A. Native Software Applications (macOS & iOS)

• Zero Telemetry & Local Processing: Our desktop plugins, audio tools, and native applications process all user content (including audio signals, DSP parameters, project files, and configurations) entirely locally on your device. We do not transmit, analyze, or monitor your creative work or in-app activity.
• Device Permissions & Capabilities: Applications request system permissions (such as microphone/audio input access or local file system storage) solely when strictly required to perform their core functionality (e.g., real-time audio processing or loading user presets). Device capabilities are never accessed in the background without user initiation or knowledge.
• Licensing & Authentication: Where cryptographic license key validation is utilized, token exchange is performed securely using industry-standard cryptography. We do not inspect the user’s file system, execute intrusive machine fingerprinting, or monitor ongoing device usage.

B. Website Visitors

When you visit heartensystems.com, we collect minimal, non-identifying technical server logs (e.g., IP address, browser user-agent, and access timestamps) strictly required to serve website content securely and prevent malicious attacks. We do not deploy advertising pixels or cross-site tracking cookies.

C. Diagnostic & Analytics Data (Strictly Opt-In)

We may offer optional diagnostic and usage crash analytics to help improve software stability. You are opted out by default. Anonymous telemetry is only collected if you provide explicit, affirmative consent through an in-app prompt. This data contains no personally identifiable information (PII) and consent may be revoked at any time within application settings.

D. Technical & Horticultural Consulting Services

If you reach out to us regarding specialized technical engineering or horticulture systems, we collect the contact details and specifications you voluntarily provide (e.g., name, email address, project requirements) solely to fulfill your inquiry and deliver agreed services.

2. Third-Party Services & Data Processors

We do not sell, rent, lease, or monetize your personal data under any circumstances. Where we utilize trusted third-party data processors to facilitate communications or transactions, we ensure they comply with strict privacy standards:

• Formspree: Inquiries submitted through our Contact and Support forms are securely routed via Formspree under data processing agreements compliant with UK GDPR.
• Equivalent Safeguards: All third-party service providers and processors engaged by Hearten Systems Ltd are contractually required to provide the same or equal level of user data protection as stated in this Privacy Policy and required by Apple App Store Guidelines.

3. Apple App Store & Developer Program Compliance

In adherence to Apple Developer Program requirements and App Store Review Guideline 5.1:

• No Tracking & No IDFA Collection: We do not track users across third-party apps or websites, and we do not collect or transmit the Identifier for Advertisers (IDFA).
• No Embedded Ad Networks or Data Brokers: Our application binaries do not contain third-party advertising SDKs, marketing trackers, or undisclosed data collection libraries.
• App Store Privacy Nutrition Labels: Our declarations on App Store Connect accurately reflect our zero-telemetry architecture and minimal, opt-in data collection practices.

4. Data Retention & Deletion Policy

We believe in strict data minimization and do not retain personal information longer than necessary:

• Application Data: Stored locally on your device under your complete control. Deleting an application or its local presets immediately removes that data from your device.
• Support & Inquiry Communications: Direct emails and contact form inquiries are retained only for the duration necessary to resolve your request and maintain statutory accounting or legal records, after which they are securely purged.
• Web Server Logs: Rotated and automatically overwritten on a rolling 30-day schedule.

5. Account & Data Deletion Rights (UK GDPR / Global)

Our native applications function without mandatory online user account registration. However, regarding any communications or records held by Hearten Systems Ltd, you possess the right to:

• Request a copy of any personal data we hold about you.
• Request immediate correction or permanent deletion ("Right to be Forgotten") of your personal data.
• Withdraw consent for any communications or opt-in diagnostics at any time.

To submit a data access or deletion request, please reach out via our contact page. We process all verified requests within 30 days free of charge.

6. Children’s Privacy (COPPA & Age Protections)

Our website, applications, and services are not directed to children under the age of 13 (or under 16 where applicable in the UK and European Union). We do not knowingly collect, request, or solicit personal information from children. If we discover that a child has provided us with personal information without verified parental consent, we will promptly take steps to delete such data from our systems.

7. Security & System Integrity

We maintain rigorous technical and administrative safeguards to protect website infrastructure and communications. Any unauthorized attempt to breach, compromise, scrape, reverse engineer, or disrupt our systems is strictly prohibited under the Computer Misuse Act 1990 (UK), the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (US), and relevant international legislation.

8. Cookies & Local Storage

Our website uses essential local storage and session cookies solely to preserve site preferences (such as your cookie consent preference). We do not deploy third-party tracking, analytics, or behavioral advertising cookies.

9. Regional Purchase Restrictions

Products and digital licenses offered through our website may be subject to regional restrictions and export control regulations. By acquiring software from Hearten Systems Ltd, you confirm that your acquisition complies with applicable local laws in your jurisdiction.

10. Policy Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect enhancements in our software offerings, App Store requirements, or evolving legal frameworks. Any revisions will be published directly to heartensystems.com/privacy with an updated effective date.