Overview
SideCore is a local-first macOS note app developed by Ruska Apps. This policy describes what data the app handles on your device, how optional AI and in-app purchase features work, and what SideCore does not collect.
What SideCore stores on your device
SideCore stores the following locally on your Mac:
- Note content and metadata (titles, pin status, groups, timestamps)
- App preferences (shortcuts, fonts, layout, theme, panel options)
- Referenced external folder bookmarks (if you add them)
- AI provider settings you enter (Base URL, model name, API key)
- Purchase entitlement state derived from Apple (whether SideCore Pro is unlocked)
This information is kept in the app’s local storage area so SideCore can reopen where you left off.
What SideCore does not collect
SideCore does not require an account. SideCore does not operate a cloud service that stores your notes. SideCore does not use analytics, advertising, or cross-app tracking frameworks to collect personal data. SideCore does not sell or share your note content with third parties.
In-app purchases (SideCore Pro)
SideCore is free to download. SideCore Pro is an optional one-time in-app purchase that removes the free tier's 10-note limit. It is not a subscription.
Payments are processed entirely by Apple through the Mac App Store. SideCore does not receive or store your credit card or Apple ID password. Apple may provide SideCore with purchase entitlement information so the app can unlock Pro features and support Restore Purchases.
If you purchased SideCore before it became free to download, the app may verify your original App Store purchase with Apple to grant Pro automatically, without charging you again.
AI features (bring your own key)
Optional AI features in SideCore require you to configure an OpenAI-compatible service URL, model name, and API key in Settings.
- Your API key and AI settings are stored locally on your device.
- When you use AI, SideCore sends the selected text and prompts directly from your Mac to the provider you configured.
- SideCore does not route AI requests through Ruska Apps servers.
- Your relationship with the AI provider (billing, retention, privacy) is governed by that provider’s terms.
The free tier does not limit AI request count. API usage, billing, retention, and privacy are governed by the provider you configure.
Network use
SideCore may use the network in these cases:
- AI requests — only when you configure AI and explicitly trigger an AI action, sent to your chosen provider
- App Store / StoreKit — to load product information, complete SideCore Pro purchase, or restore purchases
- Opening links — when you open a web link from a note in your browser
Core note-taking does not require network access and does not upload your notes to SideCore.
Children’s privacy
SideCore is not directed at children under 13. SideCore does not knowingly collect personal information from children.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy when SideCore’s features or pricing change. The effective date at the top of this page will be revised when updates are posted.
Contact
Privacy questions: jqlong@me.com
Support: sidecore.pages.dev/support.html