Privacy Policy

Last updated: October 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains what information the NavCast mobile application (the "App") collects, how it is used, and the choices you have.

1. Information Collected

1.1 Location Data

NavCast can use your device's GPS as an NMEA data source. When GPS input is enabled, location is accessed continuously via an Android foreground service (which displays a persistent notification). Background location access requires this foreground service notification to be shown. Location data is processed entirely on your device and is never transmitted to any server.

1.2 Instrument Data

If you connect external NMEA instruments via Bluetooth, USB, TCP, or UDP, the sensor data (depth, wind, temperature, AIS, etc.) is processed and routed locally on your device. NavCast does not collect or transmit this data.

1.3 Log Files

When the file logger is enabled, NMEA sentences are recorded to files stored locally on your device under the App's storage directory. These files remain on your device and are never uploaded to any server.

1.4 What Is Not Collected

NavCast does not collect analytics, crash reports, usage statistics, or any other telemetry. The App does not contain any third-party tracking SDKs. All data stays on your device.

1.5 Map & Network Features

The optional map tab downloads map tiles from third-party servers including CartoDB/CARTO, OpenSeaMap, Wikimedia, and Esri/GEBCO. When you use the map, these servers may receive your device's IP address and the geographic area being viewed. No personal data beyond your IP address is sent to these providers. These services are subject to their respective privacy policies.

2. How Your Information Is Used

All data processed by NavCast is used solely to provide the App's NMEA routing features on your device. NavCast does not receive, store, or process any of your data on any server.

3. Data Sharing

NavCast does not sell, rent, or intentionally share your personal data with third parties.

When you use the map feature, tile servers (listed in section 1.5) receive your device's IP address and tile coordinates as part of normal HTTP requests. No other personal data is included.

When you enable network outputs (TCP, UDP, or Bluetooth), NMEA data — which may include GPS position — is made available to devices on your local network at your discretion.

When you export or share log files via the Android share sheet, that data leaves the app at your discretion.

4. Data Retention

All location, instrument, and log data remain on your device. NavCast does not retain any user data. You can delete NMEA log files at any time from within the App or by clearing the App's storage.

5. Your Rights

Since NavCast does not collect or store personal data, there is typically no data to provide, correct, or delete. If you believe NavCast holds any data about you, you may get in touch (see section 9) to request access or deletion.

6. Permissions Requested

NavCast requests the following Android permissions:

• Location (ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION, ACCESS_COARSE_LOCATION) — Used to receive GPS data as an NMEA input source.
• Bluetooth (BLUETOOTH_CONNECT, BLUETOOTH_SCAN, BLUETOOTH_ADVERTISE) — Used to connect to Bluetooth instruments and to run the Bluetooth SPP Server output.
• Network (INTERNET, ACCESS_NETWORK_STATE, ACCESS_WIFI_STATE) — Used for TCP/UDP data routing and map tile downloads.
• USB — Used to connect to USB serial NMEA instruments.
• Notifications (POST_NOTIFICATIONS) — Used to display the foreground service notification while the router is running.
• Background Service (FOREGROUND_SERVICE) — Allows the NMEA router to continue running when the app is in the background or screen is off.
• Boot Start (RECEIVE_BOOT_COMPLETED) — Optionally auto-starts the router when the device restarts, if configured by the user.
• Battery Optimisation (REQUEST_IGNORE_BATTERY_OPTIMIZATIONS) — Optionally requests exemption from battery optimisation to maintain reliable background operation.

7. Children's Privacy

NavCast is not directed at children under 13. NavCast does not knowingly collect personal information from children.

8. Changes to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last updated" date. Your continued use of the App after changes constitutes acceptance.

9. Contact

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, contact:
support@navcast.app