Launch Surface / 4 min read

A Local-First App Privacy Checklist

Local-first privacy is strongest when the product page, support page, and privacy policy all say the same plain thing.

01 Name what stays on device.
02 Separate optional exports from automatic uploads.
03 Keep policy copy aligned with the real app.

Start with the data map

List the inputs the app handles, where each input is stored, and whether the app needs an account, server, analytics tool, or upload path for the core workflow. If the useful job can happen on device, say that directly.

Describe user-controlled sharing

A local-first app can still let the user export, email, screenshot, back up, or share a result. The important boundary is whether sharing happens only when the user chooses it, not because the app quietly sends private work somewhere else.

Keep every surface consistent

The product page, support page, privacy page, store copy, and help answers should use the same privacy story. Mixed language creates doubt, especially for apps that handle purchases, photos, claims, offers, notes, or private workflows.