Privacy Policy
Last updated: January 2026
Introduction
Welcome to ShimaBirb ("we," "our," or "us"). We are committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your data when you use our Japanese vocabulary learning application.
Information We Collect
We collect the following types of information:
• Account Information: When you create an account, we collect your email address and authentication details through Google Sign-in or Apple Sign-in.
• Learning Data: Your study progress, including vocabulary cards reviewed, accuracy statistics, streak information, and spaced repetition data.
• Usage Data: How you interact with the app, including features used and session duration.
• Device Information: Device type, operating system version, and app version for troubleshooting and optimization.
• Subscription Data: Payment and subscription status through RevenueCat (we do not store your payment card details).
How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
• Provide and maintain the app's functionality
• Sync your learning progress across devices
• Personalize your learning experience using spaced repetition algorithms
• Process subscriptions and in-app purchases
• Send important notifications about your learning (with your permission)
• Improve our app and develop new features
• Respond to your support requests
Third-Party Services
We use the following third-party services:
• Firebase (Google): For authentication, database, and cloud functions.
• RevenueCat: For subscription management.
• Google Sign-in / Apple Sign-in: For account authentication.
• Google ML Kit: For OCR text recognition (processed on-device, images are not sent to servers).
Data Storage and Security
• Your learning data is stored securely in Firebase Cloud Firestore.
• Data is encrypted in transit using HTTPS/TLS.
• We implement appropriate security measures to protect against unauthorized access.
• Local data on your device is stored in an encrypted SQLite database.
Data Retention
• Your learning data is retained as long as you maintain an active account.
• AI feature usage logs are automatically deleted after 30 days.
• You can request deletion of your account and associated data at any time.
Your Rights
You have the right to:
• Access your personal data
• Request correction of inaccurate data
• Request deletion of your account and data
• Export your learning data
• Opt-out of marketing communications
To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information below.
Children's Privacy
Our app is not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected such information, please contact us immediately.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any significant changes through the app or via email. Your continued use of the app after changes indicates acceptance of the updated policy.
Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us at:
Email: shimabirb@protonmail.com
We will respond to your inquiry within 30 days.