Terms of Service

1. Agreement to Terms

By accessing or using WalkTogether ("Service"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). If you disagree with any part of these terms, then you may not access the Service.

2. Age Requirements and Eligibility

2.1 Minimum Age

You must be at least 14 years old to use WalkTogether. Users under 14 are not permitted to create accounts or use our Service.

2.2 Regional Restrictions

• Ages 14-17: Service is only available to users in the United States and Canada
• Ages 18+: Service is available worldwide

2.3 Built-in Safety Features

For users between 14 and 17 years old, we provide comprehensive built-in safety features including age-segregated communication, content monitoring, and robust community guidelines to ensure a secure and positive experience.

2.4 Account Registration

You must provide accurate, current, and complete information during registration. You are responsible for safeguarding your account credentials and for all activities that occur under your account.

3. Community Guidelines and Acceptable Use

3.1 Faith-Centered Community

WalkTogether is a faith-based community designed to encourage spiritual growth. All interactions should reflect Christian values of love, respect, kindness, and encouragement.

3.2 Prohibited Conduct

You may not use our Service to:

• Post content that is unlawful, threatening, abusive, harassing, defamatory, vulgar, obscene, or invasive of another's privacy
• Share content that promotes hatred, discrimination, or violence based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or other characteristics
• Impersonate any person or entity or falsely represent your affiliation with any person or entity
• Solicit personal information from minors or engage in any inappropriate behavior toward minors
• Share content that promotes illegal activities, substance abuse, or self-harm
• Spam, advertise commercial products, or engage in any form of commercial solicitation
• Share false or misleading religious teachings or content that undermines the faith-based nature of our community
• Attempt to circumvent age verification or chat restrictions

3.3 Spiritual Content Guidelines

When sharing spiritual content, prayer requests, or engaging in faith discussions:

• Be respectful of different Christian denominations and theological perspectives
• Focus on encouragement, support, and spiritual growth
• Avoid divisive theological debates that could harm community unity
• Share personal testimonies and experiences in a humble and helpful manner

4. Age-Segregated Communication

4.1 Chat Restrictions

Our private messaging feature enforces strict age segregation:

• Users aged 14-17 may only communicate with other users aged 14-17
• Users aged 18+ may only communicate with other users aged 18+
• Any attempt to circumvent these restrictions will result in account termination

4.2 Safety Measures

We implement various safety measures including content monitoring, reporting tools, and moderation to maintain a safe environment, especially for minor users.

4.3 Reporting Violations

Users must report any inappropriate behavior, safety concerns, or violations of these Terms. Failure to report known violations may result in account restrictions.

5. User Content and Privacy

5.1 Content Ownership

You retain ownership of content you create and share on WalkTogether, including prayer requests, testimonies, and messages. However, by sharing content, you grant us a license to use, display, and distribute it within our Service.

5.2 Content Responsibility

You are solely responsible for the content you post and share. We do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of any user-generated content.

5.3 Privacy of Communications

While we respect your privacy, we may monitor communications to ensure compliance with these Terms and to maintain community safety, particularly for minor users.

6. Subscription and Payment Terms

6.1 Current Pricing

WalkTogether is currently available FREE OF CHARGE. All features are accessible without payment at this time.

6.2 Future Paid Features

We reserve the right to introduce paid subscription features in the future. Before implementing any charges, we will:

• Update these Terms of Service with detailed pricing and subscription information
• Provide advance notice to all existing users
• Clearly display pricing information in the app and on the App Store
• Allow users to review and accept updated Terms before being charged

6.3 Planned Premium Features (When Launched)

When subscription features are introduced, they may include enhanced prayer partner matching, advanced Bible study tools, exclusive devotional content, and an ad-free experience. Specific features and pricing will be disclosed before launch.

6.4 Automatic Renewal (When Subscriptions Launch)

If and when paid subscriptions are introduced, SUBSCRIPTIONS WILL AUTOMATICALLY RENEW at the end of each billing period (monthly or yearly, depending on your plan) unless you cancel before the renewal date. You will be charged through your Apple App Store account at confirmation of purchase and upon each automatic renewal.

6.5 How to Cancel (Future Subscriptions)

When subscriptions are available, you can cancel by:

• iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions > WalkTogether > Cancel Subscription
• Cancellation must be done at least 24 hours before the end of the current billing period to avoid being charged for the next period
• Upon cancellation, you will retain access to premium features until the end of your current paid period

6.6 Refund Policy

Except when required by law, paid subscription fees are non-refundable.

Certain refund requests for subscriptions may be considered by the Company on a case-by-case basis and granted at the sole discretion of the Company.

If you believe you are entitled to a refund under applicable law, please contact us at info@walktogether-app.com.

6.7 Price Changes

When subscriptions are implemented, we reserve the right to change subscription pricing. Price changes will apply to new subscribers immediately and to existing subscribers upon their next renewal after 30 days' notice.

6.8 Payment Processing

All purchases, when available, will be processed through the Apple App Store. Your payment method and billing are managed by Apple according to their terms and policies.

7. Intellectual Property Rights

7.1 Our Content

The WalkTogether app, including daily devotions, Bible verses, faith actions, and all related content, is protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws.

7.2 Bible Content

Bible verses and religious texts are used in accordance with copyright permissions and fair use provisions. We respect the intellectual property rights of Bible publishers and translators.

7.3 User License

We grant you a limited, non-exclusive license to use our Service for personal, non-commercial spiritual growth purposes.

8. Account Termination

8.1 Termination by You

You may terminate your account at any time by deleting the app or contacting our support team.

8.2 Termination by Us

We may terminate or suspend your account immediately for:

• Violation of these Terms of Service
• Inappropriate behavior toward other users, especially minors
• Sharing content that violates our community guidelines
• Attempting to circumvent age restrictions or safety measures
• Any conduct that threatens the safety or well-being of our community

8.3 Effect of Termination

Upon termination, your right to use the Service ceases immediately. We may delete your account data, though some information may be retained as required by law or for safety purposes.

9. Disclaimers and Limitations

9.1 Service Availability

We strive to provide continuous service but cannot guarantee uninterrupted access. The Service may be temporarily unavailable due to maintenance, updates, or technical issues.

9.2 Spiritual Guidance Disclaimer

While WalkTogether provides devotional content and facilitates spiritual community, it is not a substitute for pastoral counseling, professional therapy, or medical treatment. For serious spiritual, emotional, or mental health concerns, please consult appropriate professionals.

9.3 Community Interactions

We facilitate connections between users but are not responsible for the actions, content, or behavior of individual users. Exercise wisdom and discernment in all interactions.

9.4 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, WalkTogether shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of the Service.

10. Privacy and Data Protection

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand how we collect, use, and protect your information, including spiritual and religious data.

11. Changes to Terms

We may modify these Terms at any time. We will notify users of significant changes through:

• In-app notifications
• Email notifications
• Updates to this page with a new "Last updated" date

Continued use of the Service after changes constitutes acceptance of the new Terms.

12. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

12.1 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, United States, without regard to its conflict of law principles. Any legal action or proceeding arising under these Terms will be brought exclusively in the federal or state courts located in Delaware, and you hereby consent to personal jurisdiction and venue therein.

12.2 Informal Dispute Resolution

We encourage users to contact our support team at info@walktogether-app.com first to resolve any disputes informally. We will attempt to resolve disputes through good faith negotiations for at least 30 days before pursuing formal legal action.

12.3 Binding Arbitration

If informal resolution fails, any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to these Terms or the Service shall be settled by binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association (AAA) in accordance with its Consumer Arbitration Rules. The arbitration will be conducted in Delaware or remotely by video conference.

12.4 Class Action Waiver

You agree that any disputes will be resolved on an individual basis and not as part of a class action, consolidated action, or representative proceeding. You waive any right to participate in a class action lawsuit or class-wide arbitration.

12.5 Exceptions to Arbitration

Either party may seek injunctive relief in court for violations of intellectual property rights or unauthorized access to the Service. Additionally, you may bring claims in small claims court if they qualify.

12.6 30-Day Right to Opt-Out

You have the right to opt-out of binding arbitration within 30 days of first accepting these Terms by sending written notice to info@walktogether-app.com with "Arbitration Opt-Out" in the subject line.

13. Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us:

14. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable or invalid, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.

15. Special Notice for Parents and Guardians

Parents and guardians of users aged 14-17 are encouraged to:

• Review these Terms with their children
• Monitor their children's use of the Service
• Report any concerns about interactions or content
• Contact us immediately if they have any safety concerns

We are committed to maintaining a safe environment for all users, especially minors, and welcome parental involvement in ensuring their children's safety.

16. DMCA Copyright Policy

16.1 Copyright Infringement

We respect intellectual property rights. If you believe content on our Service infringes your copyright, please submit a DMCA notice to our designated copyright agent.

16.2 DMCA Notice Requirements

Your DMCA notice must include:

• A physical or electronic signature of the copyright owner or authorized representative
• Identification of the copyrighted work claimed to have been infringed
• Identification of the infringing material and its location on our Service
• Your contact information (address, phone number, email)
• A statement that you have a good faith belief that use of the material is not authorized
• A statement under penalty of perjury that the information is accurate and you are authorized to act

16.3 Designated Copyright Agent

Submit DMCA notices to:

16.4 Counter-Notification

If your content was removed due to a DMCA claim and you believe it was removed in error, you may file a counter-notification using the same contact information above.

16.5 Repeat Infringer Policy

We will terminate the accounts of users who are determined to be repeat copyright infringers.

17. Warranty Disclaimer

17.1 "AS-IS" Service

THE SERVICE IS PROVIDED "AS-IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. WalkTogether expressly disclaims all warranties, including but not limited to:

• Warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement
• Warranties regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of spiritual content
• Warranties that the Service will be uninterrupted, secure, or error-free
• Warranties regarding the quality of prayer partner matches or spiritual outcomes

17.2 No Guarantee of Results

We do not guarantee that use of the Service will result in spiritual growth, answered prayers, or any specific spiritual outcomes. Spiritual development is a personal journey that requires individual commitment.

17.3 Third-Party Content

We do not endorse, warrant, or assume responsibility for user-generated content, including prayer requests, testimonies, or advice shared by other users. Exercise discernment when engaging with community content.

17.4 Technical Limitations

We do not warrant that the Service will be compatible with all devices, that it will be available at all times, or that it will be free from viruses or other harmful components.

18. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless WalkTogether, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, and licensors from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, expenses, or fees (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from:

• Your use or misuse of the Service
• Your violation of these Terms of Service
• Your violation of any rights of another person or entity
• Your user-generated content, including prayer requests, messages, and community posts
• Any content you share or distribute through the Service
• Your breach of any representation or warranty contained in these Terms

This indemnification obligation will survive termination of these Terms and your use of the Service.

19. AI and Automated Systems

19.1 AI-Powered Features

Our Service uses artificial intelligence and automated systems for:

• Prayer Partner Matching: Algorithms analyze your selected spiritual focus to match you with compatible prayer partners
• Content Moderation: Automated scanning of messages for safety violations, inappropriate content, and prohibited information
• Bible Companion Chat: AI assistant providing Scripture insights and theological guidance
• Safety Monitoring: Behavioral analysis to detect suspicious activity and protect users

19.2 AI Limitations

You acknowledge and agree that:

• AI systems are not perfect and may make errors in moderation or matching
• The Bible Companion provides general spiritual guidance and is not a substitute for pastoral counseling
• Automated moderation may occasionally flag appropriate content (false positives) or miss inappropriate content (false negatives)
• AI matching cannot guarantee perfect prayer partner compatibility

19.3 Right to Human Review

You may request human review of automated decisions, including:

• Content moderation decisions that affected your account
• Prayer partner matching if you consistently experience poor matches
• Safety actions taken against your account

Submit requests for human review to info@walktogether-app.com.

19.4 Content Moderation Appeal Process

If your content is removed or your account is restricted due to moderation:

• You will receive notification of the action taken and the reason
• You may appeal the decision within 30 days by contacting info@walktogether-app.com
• A human moderator will review your appeal within 5-7 business days
• The moderator's decision will be final

20. Force Majeure

WalkTogether shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performance due to events beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to:

• Acts of God (natural disasters, severe weather, pandemics)
• War, terrorism, civil unrest, or government actions
• Internet or telecommunications failures not caused by us
• Cyber attacks, hacking attempts, or security breaches by third parties
• Failures of third-party service providers (Firebase, Apple, OpenAI)
• Labor disputes or strikes

In such events, our obligations will be suspended for the duration of the force majeure event.

21. Export Control

The Service may be subject to United States export control laws and regulations. You agree to comply with all applicable export and import laws and regulations in your use of the Service. You represent and warrant that:

• You are not located in a country subject to U.S. government embargo or designated as a "terrorist supporting" country
• You are not listed on any U.S. government list of prohibited or restricted parties
• You will not use the Service for any purposes prohibited by U.S. law, including development of nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons

22. Entire Agreement

These Terms of Service, together with our Privacy Policy and any additional terms you agree to when using specific features, constitute the entire agreement between you and WalkTogether regarding your use of the Service. These Terms supersede any prior agreements or understandings.

23. Assignment

You may not assign or transfer your rights under these Terms without our prior written consent. WalkTogether may assign or transfer its rights and obligations under these Terms without restriction, including in connection with a merger, acquisition, sale of assets, or by operation of law.

24. No Waiver

Our failure to enforce any provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of that provision or any other provision. Any waiver must be in writing and signed by an authorized representative of WalkTogether.

25. Survival

The following sections shall survive termination of these Terms: User Content and Privacy (ownership provisions), Intellectual Property Rights, Warranty Disclaimer, Limitation of Liability, Indemnification, Governing Law and Dispute Resolution, and any other provisions that by their nature should survive.

26. Accessibility

We are committed to making our Service accessible to users with disabilities. If you encounter accessibility barriers, please contact us at info@walktogether-app.com and we will work to address your concerns.

27. Contact for Legal Notices

All legal notices, demands, or other communications required under these Terms must be sent to:

Notices sent by email are deemed received when we send a confirmation of receipt.