Privacy Policy

App: China Discovery | Last updated: October 29, 2026

China Discovery ("we", "our", or "the app") is a travel guide app for exploring destinations in China. This policy explains what data we collect, why, and how it is handled.

1. Data We Collect

iCloud Account Name — When you create a profile, we read your iCloud given name (with your permission) to pre-fill your display name. You may also set a custom username instead.
Display Name and Profile Photo — Your display name and, if you choose to set one, your profile photo are shown next to your reviews and replies, so a copy is stored in Apple's CloudKit public database where other users can see it. Your account record is also kept in your private iCloud account.
Reviews and Replies — Reviews, ratings, replies and any photos you attach are stored in Apple's CloudKit public database and are visible to other users.
Location — With your permission, the app uses your location to show where you are on the map, to find attractions near you (worked out on your device from the app's built-in attraction data), and to give directions from your current position to an attraction. We do not store your location or send it to our servers. Directions are calculated by Apple Maps under Apple's privacy policy. Your location is not included in AI trip planning requests.
Camera — Used only when you choose to take a new profile photo.
Photo Library — Used only when you choose a profile photo or add photos to a review. The app uses the system photo picker, so it only receives the photos you select.

2. Data We Do Not Collect

We do not collect analytics or advertising identifiers.
We cannot see your favorites, saved itineraries or browsing history; they stay in your private iCloud account.
We do not sell, rent, or share your personal data with third parties.
We do not track you across other apps or websites.

3. AI Travel Planning (DeepSeek)

The app includes an AI-powered itinerary planning feature. When you request a travel plan, the cities, attractions, travel dates, and preferences you select are sent to the DeepSeek API, a third-party AI service, to generate your itinerary. The app tells you this before you tap Generate Plan. No personal identifiers (name, iCloud ID, location) are included in these requests. DeepSeek is based in China, and requests may be processed on servers located there under DeepSeek's own privacy policy.

4. Data Storage

iCloud public database — Your display name, profile photo, reviews, replies and review photos are stored in Apple's CloudKit public database so other travelers can see them.
Your private iCloud account — Favorites, saved itineraries, recently viewed places and your account record sync across your devices through your private iCloud account. Only you can access this data; we cannot.
On-device — App preferences are stored locally on your device.
Apple's privacy policy applies to data stored in iCloud: apple.com/legal/privacy.

5. Account Deletion

You can delete your account at any time from within the app: Account → tap your name → Account Settings → Delete Account. Deleting your account removes your public profile (display name and profile photo) and your account record. Reviews and replies you have posted remain visible to other users, but your name is removed and they are shown as "Former traveller". Favorites, saved itineraries and recently viewed places stay in your private iCloud account; you can remove them in your device's iCloud settings.

6. Children's Privacy

China Discovery is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

7. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The "Last updated" date at the top of this page will reflect any changes. Continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.

8. Contact

If you have questions about this privacy policy or need support, please contact us at:
GalaxySpaceHiker@gmail.com