Terms of Service

Welcome to Are You Faster!

Use the app, have fun, be safe. By using our app, you agree to these terms.

1. About the App

Are You Faster is a free-to-use Android fitness game available on Google Play Store. The app gamifies outdoor running by letting you compete against 27 unique AI-powered virtual animal opponents in real-time GPS-tracked races.

Target Platform:

• Package Name: com.ayf.areyoufaster
• Minimum Android Version: Android 8.0 (API 26)
• Target Android Version: Android 14 (API 34)
• Category: Health & Fitness / Gamification

Game Modes:

• Hunt Mode: Chase down your animal opponent before time runs out
• Escape Mode: Stay ahead of the pursuing animal for the duration
• Future modes may be added (Story Mode, Personal Goals, Multiplayer)

Core Features:

• Real-time GPS tracking during runs (OpenFreeMap integration)
• Distance, pace, time, elevation, and calorie tracking
• Route map visualization with multiple map styles
• XP and leveling system with 27 unique animal opponents
• Achievement badges and challenge tracking
• Comprehensive run history and statistics
• Social sharing features (static image placards)
• Offline-first design (no internet required for runs)

2. Acceptance of Terms

By downloading, installing, or using Are You Faster, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree, do not use the app.

• These Terms apply to all users worldwide
• Continued use of the app constitutes acceptance of any updates to these Terms
• You must be at least 13 years old to use the app (in compliance with COPPA and applicable laws)
• If you are under 18, you must have parental consent to use the app

3. Safety First

Your Responsibilities:

• Physical Fitness: Ensure you are healthy enough for physical activity. Consult a doctor before starting any exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.
• Environmental Awareness: Pay attention to traffic, terrain, weather, and surroundings. The game is secondary to your safety. Never run in dangerous areas or unsafe conditions.
• Proper Equipment: Wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Use reflective gear and lights when running in low visibility. Carry water and stay hydrated.
• Device Usage: Do not stare at your phone while running. Use audio cues and glance at the screen only when safe to do so. Consider using a running belt or armband.
• Emergency Preparedness: Carry ID and emergency contact information. Know how to call emergency services in your area (999 UK, 112 EU, 911 US).
• GPS Accuracy: GPS may be inaccurate due to signal loss, terrain, or weather. Do not rely solely on the app for navigation or safety.

Assumption of Risk:

You expressly assume all risks associated with using the app and participating in physical activity. Are You Faster CIC is not responsible for injuries, accidents, property damage, or any harm resulting from your use of the app, including but not limited to:

• Physical injuries (sprains, fractures, muscle tears, cardiac events)
• Accidents (collisions, falls, traffic incidents)
• Health complications from overexertion
• Loss or damage to your device
• GPS inaccuracies leading to unsafe situations

4. Account and Usage

Account Creation:

• Anonymous Mode: Use the app without creating an account (default)
• Google Sign-In: Optional - link your account for cloud features
• You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account
• You must provide accurate information if you choose to sign in
• One account per person

Acceptable Use:

You agree NOT to:

• Use the app for any illegal purpose
• Cheat or manipulate GPS data (mock locations, GPS spoofing)
• Harass or abuse other users (if social features are added)
• Attempt to reverse engineer, decompile, or hack the app
• Use the app while driving or operating machinery
• Violate any applicable laws or regulations
• Access the app through unauthorized means or bots
• Interfere with or disrupt the app's functionality

Device Compatibility:

• Requires Android 8.0+ with GPS capabilities
• Requires location permissions for core functionality
• Best performance with Android 10+ (API 29+)

5. Privacy and Data

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy and Data Policy to understand how we handle your information.

6. Intellectual Property

The app, its content, features, and functionality are owned by Are You Faster CIC and are protected by international copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws.

• You may not copy, modify, or distribute the app
• All animal characters, graphics, and game mechanics are proprietary
• You retain ownership of your personal data and run history
• Map Data: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL license)
• MapLibre: Open-source library (BSD license)

Open Source Attributions:

This app uses the following open-source libraries:

• MapLibre (BSD License)
• Room Database (Apache 2.0)
• Jetpack Compose (Apache 2.0)
• ZXing (Apache 2.0) for QR code generation

Full OSS licenses available in Settings → About → Open Source Licenses

7. Data Accuracy & Disclaimers

We disclaim all warranties, express or implied, including:

• GPS Accuracy: GPS tracking depends on satellite signals and may be inaccurate due to terrain, weather, or device limitations
• Distance & Pace Calculations: Calculated values are estimates and may not be 100% accurate
• Calorie Burn Estimates: Based on standard formulas; actual calories burned vary by individual
• App Availability: We do not guarantee error-free or uninterrupted operation
• Fitness Results: No guarantee of weight loss, fitness improvements, or health outcomes
• Device Compatibility: May not work on all Android devices or versions
• Map Data: Map tiles may be outdated or inaccurate; do not use for navigation

Health App Disclaimer:

8. Limitation of Liability

Our total liability for all claims shall not exceed £100 or the amount you paid for the app (whichever is greater). Since the app is free, this effectively caps liability at £100.

Indemnification: You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Are You Faster CIC from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from your use of the app or violation of these Terms.

9. Termination

By You:

You may stop using the app at any time. To delete your account and data:

• Go to Settings → Account Management → Delete Account
• All data will be permanently deleted from your device
• This action is irreversible

By Us:

We may suspend or terminate your access if you:

• Violate these Terms
• Engage in illegal activity
• Abuse or exploit the app
• Pose a security risk

10. Monetization

Current State:

• ✅ FREE app: No purchase required
• ✅ NO in-app purchases: No consumables, subscriptions, or upgrades
• ✅ NO advertisements: No ad networks or promotional content
• ✅ NO donations/tips: No payment collection

Future Considerations:

If monetization is added in the future:

• We will use Google Play Billing API exclusively
• Clear pricing disclosure will be provided
• Subscription terms will be clearly stated
• You will be notified via app update notes

11. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. We will notify you of material changes through:

• In-app notification
• Updated "Last Updated" date
• Email notification (if you provided an email via Google Sign-In)

Your continued use after changes constitutes acceptance. If you don't agree to new Terms, please stop using the app and delete your account.

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

Dispute Resolution: We encourage you to contact us first at support@areyoufaster.com to resolve any issues informally.

13. Google Play Store Terms

If you download the app from the Google Play Store, you acknowledge:

• These Terms are between you and Are You Faster CIC, not Google
• Google has no obligation to provide support
• Google is not responsible for the app or its content
• You must comply with Google's Play Store Terms of Service
• Google and its subsidiaries are third-party beneficiaries of these Terms

Google Play Policies Compliance:

• ✅ Prominent location disclosure (permission rationale)
• ✅ Foreground service notification (required for background tracking)
• ✅ Data Safety form accurately completed
• ✅ Sensitive permissions justified (location for core functionality)

14. Contact Us

15. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable or invalid, that provision shall be limited or eliminated to the minimum extent necessary so that these Terms shall otherwise remain in full force and effect.