Apps Categories - Privacy Policy

Last Updated: June 18, 2026

Michael Gershman ("we," "our," or "us") operates the Apps Categories mobile application (the "App") for Android devices. This privacy policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information when you use the App.

We are committed to protecting your privacy. The App is designed as a local utility: it does not collect, sell, or share your personal identity, contacts, locations, or files.

1. Information Collection and Transmission

A. Installed Applications (Package Names)

• What is collected: The App queries the package names (e.g., com.example.app) of applications installed on your device.

• How it is used: To provide the core app categorization feature. Package names are transmitted securely via HTTPS to the AppBrain API (api.appbrain.com) to retrieve their respective categories and metadata.

• Security: This request uses OkHttp Certificate Pinning to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks. No user identifiers, device credentials, or personal data are attached to these requests.

B. Device Usage Statistics

• What is collected: If you grant the optional Usage Access permission (PACKAGE_USAGE_STATS), the App reads local application foreground usage times.

• How it is used: To populate the "Most Used" smart category.

• Data Handling: This information is processed entirely locally on your device. It is never transmitted to any external servers.

C. User Feedback & Screenshots

• What is collected: If you choose to submit a bug report or feature request using the in-app feedback dialog:

  • The text of your issue, expected behavior, and actual behavior.

  • Device metadata (Android version, device model, app version).

  • An optional annotated screenshot of the App's interface.

• User Control: A screenshot is only captured and uploaded if you explicitly consent via a dialog and choose to include it. You have the opportunity to draw on and highlight sections of the screenshot to redact sensitive details before sending.

• How it is stored: Submissions are written securely to a Firebase Firestore database. The App utilizes Firebase Anonymous Authentication to generate a unique session identifier to protect the database against unauthorized write abuse.

2. Permissions Used by the App

• The App requests the following permissions to function. You can revoke them at any time in your Android system settings:

• Internet Access (INTERNET / ACCESS_NETWORK_STATE): Required to communicate with the AppBrain API for categorization and Firebase Firestore for optional feedback submissions.

• Post Notifications (POST_NOTIFICATIONS): Used to display the persistent category quick-launcher in the notification tray.

• Usage Stats Access (PACKAGE_USAGE_STATS): An optional permission used locally to determine the user's "Most Used" applications.

• Receive Boot Completed (RECEIVE_BOOT_COMPLETED): Allows the App to restore the persistent launcher notification after a device reboot.

3. Data Retention and Deletion

• Local Data: All categorized app mappings, timeline events, and database configurations are stored locally in the App's private database. Clearing App data or uninstalling the App deletes this information immediately.

• Feedback Data: Submissions sent via the in-app feedback tool are retained on Firebase Firestore for a period of up to 90 days for troubleshooting and developer review, after which they are permanently deleted.

4. Third-Party Services

The App utilizes the following third-party services that may process data:

• AppBrain API: Used to fetch category classifications for package names. AppBrain Privacy Policy.

• Firebase (Google LLC): Used for database storage (Firestore), anonymous authorization, and Remote Config. Google Privacy Policy.

5. Children's Privacy

The App does not address anyone under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personally identifiable information from children under 13. If you are a parent or guardian and you are aware that your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us so we can take necessary actions.

6. Contact Us

If you have any questions or suggestions about this Privacy Policy, do not hesitate to contact us:

• Developer: Michael Gershman

• Email: mgershma@gmail.com

• Website: MichaelGershman.com

Michael Gershman

mgershma@gmail.com