Last updated: July 9, 2026
Bubblem is a map-based social app where short-lived messages ("bubbles") are pinned to real-world locations. Because the service is built around location, this policy explains in plain terms what we collect, why, and the choices you have.
This Privacy Policy describes how the Bubblem Team ("Bubblem", "we", "us") handles information when you use the Bubblem mobile and web applications and related services (the "Service"). By using the Service you agree to the practices described here.
When you create an account we process the identity information provided through your chosen sign-in method (email and password, Google, or Apple). This includes your email address and, where the provider supplies it, your name. If you sign in with Apple and choose to hide your email, we receive Apple's private relay address instead of your real address. We also store the profile you set up: a permanent handle, a display name, an optional bio, and an optional avatar image.
You can browse the map without creating an account. In this mode we issue a temporary anonymous session so the app can load content, but we do not create a user profile for you and do not store an email or name.
We store the content you post: bubble text, replies, stamps (reactions), and any photos or videos you attach. Every bubble is associated with the geographic coordinates you choose for it, which are visible to other users as part of the core map experience.
With your permission, the app uses your device's location to center the map near you and to let you pin a bubble to your current position. We request location only while the app is in use. You can decline or revoke this permission at any time in your device settings; the map still works using a default or manually panned position, though some convenience features will be unavailable. See Section 3 for the important distinction between your device location and the coordinates you attach to a bubble.
Photos and videos can contain embedded metadata (such as EXIF data, which may include the GPS coordinates where a photo was taken). At this time uploaded media is stored as provided. Please be aware that embedded metadata in a photo may reveal location or other information beyond what you intend to share.
Like most online services, our servers automatically record technical data needed to operate securely and reliably: IP address, request timestamps, device/OS type, and application logs. We use this for security, abuse prevention (including rate limiting), debugging, and service reliability.
If you report content or another user, we store your report (the target, category, and any details) so our moderation process can review it.
Your public profile (handle, display name, bio, avatar) and the content you post — including its location — are visible to other users of the Service. Your email address and sign-in identity are never shown to other users.
We rely on third-party infrastructure to run the Service and share data with them only as needed to provide it:
These providers process data under their own terms and privacy policies. We do not sell your personal information.
We may disclose information if required by law, or if we believe in good faith that disclosure is necessary to comply with legal process, enforce our Terms, or protect the rights, safety, or property of our users or the public.
Bubbles are intentionally short-lived: a bubble remains on the live map only for a rolling window and then disappears from view. We may retain the underlying record afterward as service history, and we retain account, security, and moderation data for as long as your account is active or as needed for the purposes described in this policy and to meet legal obligations.
Depending on where you live, you may have additional rights over your personal data (such as access, correction, or erasure). To make a request, contact us using the details in Section 11.
The Service is not intended for children under 13, and you must be at least 13 years old to use it. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child under 13 has provided us information, please contact us and we will delete it.
We use industry-standard measures to protect your information, including encrypted transport (HTTPS) and access controls on our infrastructure. No method of transmission or storage is completely secure, so we cannot guarantee absolute security.
The Service is operated from Japan and data is stored on cloud infrastructure located in Japan. If you access the Service from outside Japan, you understand that your information will be processed in Japan.
We may update this policy from time to time. When we make material changes, we will update the "Last updated" date above and, where appropriate, provide notice in the app. Continued use of the Service after a change means you accept the updated policy.
Bubblem Team
Email: support@bubblem.app