Privacy Policy
Stow is a local-first music player for iPhone. Your audio files stay on your iPhone unless you choose to import them or use an optional network feature described below. Stow does not operate a cloud music library, does not require an account, and does not upload your audio files to Bottleworks Labs.
Last updated: June 2026 · Contact: support@bottleworkslabs.com
What stays on your device
- Imported audio files
- Your library (folders, playlists, tags, queue, resume positions)
- Artwork cache
- Appearance and playback preferences
- Search history (stored locally on the device)
Stow does not operate a cloud music library and does not upload your audio files to Bottleworks Labs.
Optional network features
Find Artwork
When you tap Find Artwork or Replace Artwork, Stow sends a search query to public metadata services (MusicBrainz and Cover Art Archive).
Sent: track title, artist, album, and filename hints when tags are missing.
Not sent: audio files, file contents, folder paths, library structure, listening history, or Apple ID.
Lookup runs only when you request it. Downloaded artwork is stored on your device.
Wi-Fi Transfer
When you start Wi-Fi Transfer, Stow runs a temporary upload server on your local Wi-Fi network so a nearby Mac or PC can upload files.
- No cloud storage — files go directly to your iPhone
- No password — use only on networks you trust
- Server stops when Stow is not open in the foreground
See our Support page for Wi-Fi Transfer tips.
CarPlay
CarPlay shows playback through Apple's system interface. Stow reads your local library on the phone; it does not send your library to Apple beyond normal iOS Now Playing behavior.
Local network permission
iOS may ask for Local Network permission so Stow can advertise the Wi-Fi upload service on your home network.
Analytics and tracking
Stow does not include third-party analytics, advertising, or tracking SDKs.
Stow includes an optional Diagnostics & Support export (long-press the version on About Stow) that you choose to share — nothing is sent automatically.
Purchases of Stow Pro are handled by Apple's In-App Purchase system. Stow receives only the entitlement status needed to unlock Pro features; we do not receive or store your payment details.
Children's privacy
Stow is a general-audience music player and does not knowingly collect personal information from children.
Your choices
- Skip Find Artwork if you do not want metadata sent to MusicBrainz
- Do not start Wi-Fi Transfer on public or untrusted Wi-Fi
- Delete the app to remove local library data
Changes
We may update this policy. The "Last updated" date at the top will change when we do.
Questions: support@bottleworkslabs.com