1. Overview
Buteo ("the App") is an offline-first outdoor scouting and GPS mapping application developed for personal use on iPhone. This Privacy Policy explains what data the App collects, how it is stored, and your rights regarding that data.
In short: Buteo is designed as a privacy-first tool. All scouting tracks, waypoints, photos, and orientation data are stored locally in your device's private application sandbox (a local SQLite database and the device filesystem). Your data is never uploaded to our servers, sold to third parties, or used for advertising.
2. Data Collected
2.1 Precise Location Data
Buteo collects precise GPS location data in both the foreground and background. This data is used solely for core app functionality:
- Drawing your scouting route on the map (the "snail trail").
- Calculating distance, elevation, and speed metrics.
- Geotagging field observation photos with coordinates and elevation.
- Providing location-based weather forecasts.
Location data is stored entirely on your device. It is never transmitted to our servers, never sold, monetized, or shared with third parties.
2.2 Camera & Photos
Buteo accesses your camera to capture field observation photos during scouting sessions. Photos are saved locally on your device within the App's private storage. They are not uploaded, synchronized, or shared with any external service.
2.3 Device Sensors
Buteo reads the device magnetometer (compass heading) and barometer (atmospheric pressure) to provide directional navigation and weather trend indicators. This sensor data is processed locally and is not transmitted externally.
3. Third-Party Services & Infrastructure
To render maps, provide weather forecasts, and maintain app stability, the App communicates with third-party service providers:
3.1 Map & Satellite Imagery Providers
Buteo connects to external mapping and GIS providers (such as Mapbox, Esri, and USGS) to fetch vector and satellite tiles. Requests transmit viewport coordinates and standard technical network data (such as IP address) required to return imagery. No personal accounts, user identities, or scouting records are shared.
3.2 Weather Data
Weather forecasts and historical conditions are retrieved from Open-Meteo using the latitude and longitude of the requested location. No personal identifiers, user profiles, or device-tracking data are transmitted.
3.3 App Infrastructure
Standard internet infrastructure and content delivery services may process basic technical network information (such as IP address) to deliver app updates, verify network connectivity, or authenticate map services. No scouting tracks, waypoints, or user photos are transmitted.
4. Data Sharing & Tracking
Buteo does not:
- Track you across other companies' apps or websites.
- Share your data with data brokers.
- Serve advertisements.
- Use analytics SDKs that collect device fingerprints.
- Require or offer user accounts or logins.
5. Data Retention & Deletion
All data is stored locally on your device. You can delete individual scouting sessions, photos, or imported routes at any time from within the App. Uninstalling the App removes all stored data permanently.
6. Children's Privacy
Buteo is not directed at children under the age of 13 and does not collect personal information from children under 13.
7. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. We encourage you to review this page periodically.
8. Contact
If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:
Email: support@buteoapp.com