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Privacy Policy
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Overview
Chip is a desktop application that runs on your Mac. We take a minimal-data approach: most of what Chip does stays on your machine. This policy explains what we collect, why, and how it is protected.
What we collect
Account information
When you sign in with Google, we receive your name, email address, and profile picture from Google. We store your email and name to identify your account across devices.
Settings and API keys
Your AI provider API keys are stored locally on your device. If you are signed in, your settings (not your API keys) may be synced to our backend so your preferences are consistent across devices. API keys are never transmitted to Chip servers.
Usage data
We do not collect your prompts, task history, file contents, or screen captures. This data is processed directly on your machine or sent by your machine to the AI provider you have configured — it does not pass through Chip servers.
Third-party services
Google OAuth — used for sign-in. Governed by Google's Privacy Policy.
AI providers — when you use Claude, OpenAI, DeepSeek, or a local model, your prompts and context are sent directly from your device to that provider under their own terms. Chip does not intermediate or store this traffic.
AWS (Amazon Web Services) — our backend infrastructure for account storage and settings sync runs on AWS in the United States.
Data sensitivity and AI providers
Chip routes prompts to AI providers based on the sensitivity of the content. By default, DeepSeek (a service operated by a Chinese company) is disabled for work involving secrets, private project code, or customer data. You control this setting. We recommend reviewing each provider's data retention policy before enabling them for sensitive work.
Screen capture
Chip can capture your screen only when you explicitly request it (by clicking the clip button). Screen captures are processed locally and sent only to the AI provider you have configured for that session. We do not receive, store, or transmit your screen captures.
Data retention
Account data is retained for as long as your account is active. You may request deletion of your account and associated data by emailing us. Local data (tasks, API keys, settings) is stored on your device and can be cleared by uninstalling Chip or deleting the ~/.chip directory.
Children
Chip is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect information from anyone under 13.
Changes
We may update this policy. Material changes will be communicated via the app or email. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.
Contact
Questions? Email us at privacy@getchip.dev.