Last Updated: August 20, 2026
Earworm works on the recordings you give it: audio you record in the app, files you import, and files you send in through the share sheet. That audio is decoded and analysed on your device using Apple's on-device Core ML framework, with the transcription model bundled inside the app.
Audio, intermediate analysis data, transcribed notes, and the MIDI you produce are not transmitted to Zebel or to any third party. The app contains no networking code — you can confirm this by using it in airplane mode. Files leave the device only when you deliberately export or share them.
Earworm stores only a small amount of app state locally, such as your recordings and projects, transcription settings, how many free transcriptions remain, whether onboarding is complete, and whether a review prompt has been shown. Deleting the app removes this local app state.
The one-time lifetime unlock is processed by Apple through the App Store. Zebel does not receive or store payment-card details. The app reads Apple's signed transaction status to determine whether paid features are unlocked. Apple's handling of App Store transactions is covered by Apple's Privacy Policy.
Earworm contains links to this policy, support, and Apple's standard terms. Opening one of those links leaves the app and is handled by your browser under the destination site's privacy practices. Transcription itself never uses a network connection.
Earworm is not directed at children and Zebel collects no data from users of any age.
If this policy changes, the date above will be updated. A material change will be reflected in the App Store privacy information before an updated app is released.
Questions about privacy: earworm [at] zebel.ai