Terms of Use
By downloading, installing or using HowLoud – Decibel Meter (the "app", or "HowLoud"), you agree to these terms. HowLoud is a consumer-grade decibel meter for everyday awareness — not a certified acoustic measurement instrument.
Effective date: May 9, 2026
The app
HowLoud is an iOS application that estimates ambient sound levels (in decibels) using the device microphone. It also provides a local history of measurement sessions, simple charts, comparison views and optional Premium features described below. The app does not require an account and stores all data locally on the device.
Measurement disclaimer
HowLoud provides approximate decibel readings based on the built-in microphone of your iPhone or iPad. Readings are not certified Sound Pressure Level (SPL) measurements. Accuracy depends on the device model, microphone characteristics, distance to the sound source, environmental conditions, iOS audio processing and other factors outside the app's control. HowLoud must not be used for medical decisions, occupational safety compliance, legal evidence, hearing diagnostics or any situation that requires a calibrated measurement instrument. For such purposes, use a professional, calibrated SPL meter and consult a qualified specialist.
License
Subject to your compliance with these terms, you are granted a personal, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable license to use HowLoud on iOS devices that you own or control, in accordance with the Apple Media Services Terms and the standard Licensed Application End User License Agreement that applies to App Store apps.
Free and Premium versions
HowLoud is free to download and use with a limited feature set, including a 7-day rolling local history. A one-time in-app purchase ("Premium") unlocks additional features such as PDF export of measurement reports and extended local history (90 days at the time of writing). Premium is a one-time purchase, not a subscription. There is no auto-renewal and no recurring charge.
Purchases, restore and refunds
All purchases are processed by Apple through the App Store. Restore Purchases is available inside the app and uses StoreKit to associate previously purchased Premium with your Apple ID across devices. Refund requests are handled by Apple under Apple's refund policy; please request refunds through reportaproblem.apple.com. We do not process payments and cannot issue refunds directly.
Acceptable use
You agree not to misuse the app — for example, by attempting to reverse-engineer, modify or redistribute it outside Apple's normal distribution channels, or by using it in a way that violates applicable law or the rights of others. You also agree not to present HowLoud readings as certified or lab-grade measurements to third parties.
No warranty
HowLoud is provided "as is" and "as available" without warranties of any kind, whether express, implied or statutory, including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, accuracy of measurements and non-infringement.
Limitation of liability
To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, the developer of HowLoud will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential or punitive damages, or for any loss of data, hearing, health, business or revenue arising out of or in connection with your use of the app, even if advised of the possibility of such damages. Where liability cannot be excluded by law, the total liability is limited to the amount you paid for Premium, if any.
Privacy
HowLoud does not collect or transmit personal data. See the HowLoud Privacy Policy for details on microphone, location and local-storage handling.
Changes to these terms
These terms may be updated from time to time. The current version is always published at this URL with an effective date at the top. Continued use of the app after changes are published means you accept the updated terms.
Contact
For questions about these terms, contact ivan@lukichev.biz.