Terms of Service

Last updated: November 20, 2025

1. Acceptance of Terms

Welcome to Headlines ("we," "our," or "us"). These Terms of Service ("Terms") constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Headlines governing your access to and use of our RSS reader application, available on web and iOS platforms (collectively, the "Service").

By creating an account, or using the Service, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not access or use the Service.

These Terms are enforceable only through active acceptance (clickwrap). Continued use of the Service constitutes ongoing acceptance of these Terms as they may be amended from time to time.

2. Description of Service

Headlines is an RSS reader that provides the following functionality:

  • Feed Management: Subscribe to, organize, and manage RSS feeds from websites across the internet
  • Content Access: Read and access content from your subscribed feeds
  • Organization Tools: Organize content into collections and saved lists
  • AI-Powered Features: Access text summarization, feed summarization, and personalized content suggestions powered by artificial intelligence

We offer two service tiers:

  • Free Tier: Basic RSS reading functionality
  • Pro Tier: Enhanced features available through paid subscription (monthly or annual billing)

3. Licence Grant and Restrictions

3.1 Limited Licence to You

Subject to your compliance with these Terms, we grant you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable licence to access and use the Service for your personal, non-commercial use.

3.2 Licence Restrictions

You may not:

  • Copy, modify, distribute, sell, or lease any part of the Service
  • Reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the Service
  • Use automated systems (bots, scrapers) to access the Service
  • Remove or alter any proprietary notices or labels
  • Resell, rent, or sublicense access to the Service
  • Use the Service to build a competing product or service

4. User Accounts

4.1 Account Creation

To use the Service, you must create an account by providing accurate and complete information, including your name and email address. You represent that all information you provide is true, current, and complete.

4.2 Account Security

You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials and for all activities that occur under your account. You must immediately notify us of any unauthorized access or security breach at brad@headlines.fm.

4.3 Account Restrictions

  • Age Requirement: You must be at least 13 years of age to use the Service
  • One Account Per Person: You may create only one account
  • No Account Transfer: You may not sell, transfer, assign, or share your account with any other person or entity
  • Accurate Information: You must keep your account information current and accurate

4.4 Eligibility

By creating an account, you represent that you have the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract in your jurisdiction.

5. Payment Terms and Subscriptions

5.1 Pro Subscription

Pro subscriptions are available on a monthly or annual basis. Pricing details are displayed in the Service at the time of purchase.

5.2 Auto-Renewal and Billing

Important Notice (Ontario Consumer Protection Act Compliance):

  • Your Pro subscription will automatically renew at the end of each billing period unless you cancel before the renewal date
  • You will be charged the then-current subscription fee to your chosen payment method at the start of each billing period
  • We will send you a reminder email at least 7 days before each auto-renewal
  • Prices are subject to change with at least 30 days' notice

5.3 Cancellation

You may cancel your Pro subscription at any time through your account settings or by contacting us at brad@headlines.fm. Instructions for cancellation are clearly provided in your account dashboard.

Upon cancellation:

  • You will retain access to Pro features until the end of your current billing period
  • No further charges will be made after the current period ends
  • Your account will automatically revert to the Free Tier

5.4 Refunds

In accordance with the Ontario Consumer Protection Act:

  • If we fail to deliver the Service as described, you may be entitled to a refund for up to 30 days of non-delivery
  • Refunds for partial subscription periods are considered on a case-by-case basis at our sole discretion
  • To request a refund, contact us at brad@headlines.fm within 30 days of the charge

For iOS subscriptions purchased through Apple, refund requests must be submitted to Apple in accordance with their refund policies.

5.5 Payment Processing

Payments are processed by third-party payment processors. You agree to provide accurate payment information and authorize us to charge your payment method for all fees incurred.

6. User-Generated Content and Intellectual Property

6.1 Your Content

You retain all ownership rights to content you create within the Service, including collections, saved lists, notes, and organizational structures ("Your Content").

6.2 Licence to Us

By creating or uploading Your Content to the Service, you grant us a limited, non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide licence to host, store, display, reformat, and process Your Content solely for the purposes of:

  • Operating and providing the Service to you
  • Improving and developing Service features
  • Technical operations such as backup and recovery

This licence terminates when you delete Your Content or close your account, except for reasonable time periods required for backup deletion and legal compliance.

6.3 RSS Feed Content

Content retrieved from RSS feeds remains the property of the original publishers and content creators. You are responsible for complying with the terms of service and intellectual property rights of feed publishers. We do not claim ownership of any third-party content accessed through the Service.

6.4 Our Intellectual Property

The Service, including its software, algorithms, user interface, design, features, trademarks, and branding, is owned by us and protected by Canadian and international copyright, trademark, patent, and other intellectual property laws. Nothing in these Terms grants you any right to use our trademarks, logos, or trade names.

6.5 DMCA and Takedown Process

If you believe content accessed through the Service infringes your intellectual property rights, please contact us at brad@headlines.fm with:

  • Description of the copyrighted work or intellectual property
  • URL or location of the allegedly infringing content
  • Your contact information
  • A statement of good faith belief that use is not authorized
  • A statement under penalty of perjury that the information is accurate and you are authorized to act

We will review and respond to valid takedown requests in accordance with applicable law.

7. Acceptable Use Policy

7.1 Permitted Use

You agree to use the Service only for lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms and all applicable federal, provincial, and local laws and regulations.

7.2 Prohibited Conduct

You may not use the Service to:

  • Violate any applicable laws, regulations, or third-party rights
  • Engage in harassment, bullying, threats, or abusive behavior
  • Distribute malware, viruses, or other harmful code
  • Attempt unauthorized access to our systems, networks, or other users' accounts
  • Interfere with or disrupt the Service or servers
  • Engage in fraudulent activity or impersonate others
  • Scrape, harvest, or collect user data without consent
  • Spam or send unsolicited commercial messages
  • Access, store, or distribute illegal content

7.3 Prohibited Content

You may not use the Service to access, subscribe to, or share feeds or content that:

  • Is illegal under Canadian law (including content that violates the Criminal Code of Canada)
  • Contains child sexual abuse material
  • Contains pornography or sexually explicit material
  • Incites violence, terrorism, or hate speech
  • Harasses or threatens individuals or groups
  • Violates privacy rights or publicity rights of others
  • Infringes intellectual property rights
  • Promotes illegal activity or self-harm

7.4 Online Harms Considerations

We reserve the right to adapt our moderation practices in accordance with Canada's evolving Online Harms framework and other applicable regulations to ensure user safety and legal compliance.

8. Content Moderation

We reserve the right, but not the obligation, to:

  • Monitor, review, and moderate content accessed through or associated with the Service
  • Remove or restrict access to any content that violates these Terms or applicable law
  • Suspend or terminate accounts that violate these Terms, using proportional measures appropriate to the violation
  • Report illegal content or activity to law enforcement authorities
  • Take any action we deem necessary to protect the Service, our users, and the public

Moderation Principles:

  • We will apply moderation measures proportionate to the nature and severity of the violation
  • For serious violations (illegal content, repeated abuse), we may immediately suspend or terminate access
  • For less severe violations, we may issue warnings or temporary restrictions
  • You may appeal moderation decisions by contacting brad@headlines.fm

Content moderation decisions are made at our sole discretion but will be exercised reasonably and in good faith.

9. AI-Powered Features

9.1 Description of AI Features

Our Service uses artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to provide:

  • Text Summarization: Condensed summaries of individual articles
  • Feed Summarization: Overview summaries of multiple feed items
  • Content Suggestions: Personalized recommendations based on your reading habits

9.2 AI Limitations and Disclaimers

AI-generated content is provided for convenience and to enhance your reading experience. However:

  • AI summaries may contain errors, omissions, or inaccuracies
  • AI suggestions are based on algorithms and may not reflect editorial judgment
  • You should verify important information from original sources
  • AI features are provided "as is" without warranties of accuracy or completeness

We are not responsible for decisions you make based on AI-generated summaries or suggestions. You acknowledge that AI technology has inherent limitations and use these features at your own discretion.

10. Data Portability and Export

10.1 Exportable Data

You may export your RSS feed subscriptions in standard formats (such as OPML) at any time through the export feature in your account settings.

10.2 Non-Exportable Data

The following data types are not currently exportable:

  • Collections and organizational structures
  • Saved lists and bookmarks
  • Reading history and preferences
  • AI-generated summaries

If you terminate your account, non-exportable data will be deleted in accordance with our Privacy Policy and data retention schedule (typically within 30 days of account closure).

11. Privacy and Data Protection

11.1 Data Collection

We collect your name and email address to provide the Service. Our collection, use, storage, and protection of your personal information is governed by our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference.

11.2 Consent

By using the Service, you consent to our data practices as described in the Privacy Policy. You may withdraw consent at any time by closing your account, subject to our legal obligations to retain certain information.

11.3 PIPEDA Compliance

Our privacy practices comply with Canada's Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). You have the right to access, correct, and request deletion of your personal information as described in our Privacy Policy.

12. Disclaimers and Limitations of Liability

12.1 "As Is" Service

THE SERVICE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, WE DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, INCLUDING:

  • Warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement
  • Warranties that the Service will be uninterrupted, error-free, secure, or virus-free
  • Warranties regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of content

12.2 Service Availability

We do not guarantee continuous, uninterrupted, or secure access to the Service. The Service may be subject to limitations, delays, and other problems inherent in internet and electronic communications. We may modify, suspend, or discontinue any aspect of the Service at any time, with or without notice.

12.3 Third-Party Content

We do not control, endorse, verify, or assume responsibility for content from RSS feeds or third-party websites. You access third-party content at your own risk.

12.4 Limitation of Liability

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY ONTARIO AND CANADIAN LAW:

Our total liability to you for all claims arising from or related to the Service, whether in contract, tort, or otherwise, shall not exceed the greater of:

  • The total amount you paid us in the twelve (12) months preceding the claim, or
  • CAD $100

We shall not be liable for any:

  • Indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages
  • Loss of profits, revenues, data, goodwill, or business opportunities
  • Service interruptions or delays
  • Unauthorized access to or alteration of your data
  • Bugs, viruses, or harmful code transmitted through the Service
  • Third-party conduct or content
  • Loss or damage resulting from your reliance on AI-generated content

Statutory rights preserved: Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits liability that cannot be lawfully excluded or limited under the Ontario Consumer Protection Act, Sale of Goods Act, or other applicable consumer protection legislation. You may have statutory rights and remedies that cannot be waived.

13. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Headlines, its affiliates, and our respective officers, directors, employees, agents, and contractors from any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising from:

  • Your use or misuse of the Service
  • Your violation of these Terms
  • Your violation of any rights of another party
  • Your violation of any applicable laws or regulations
  • Your Content uploaded to or created through the Service

This indemnification obligation does not apply to claims arising from our gross negligence, wilful misconduct, or breach of these Terms.

14. Suspension and Termination

14.1 Termination by You

You may terminate your account at any time by:

  • Using the account deletion feature in your account settings, or
  • Contacting us at brad@headlines.fm

Upon termination, you will lose access to Pro features immediately unless you have a paid subscription extending beyond the termination date.

14.2 Suspension or Termination by Us

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your account and access to the Service, with or without notice, for:

  • Material or repeated violations of these Terms
  • Violations of the Acceptable Use Policy
  • Fraudulent, abusive, or illegal activity
  • Non-payment of subscription fees
  • Extended periods of inactivity (12+ months)
  • To comply with legal obligations or court orders
  • At our sole discretion to protect the Service or other users

We will apply proportional measures appropriate to the violation. Minor infractions may result in warnings, while serious violations may result in immediate termination. You may appeal termination decisions as described in Section 8.

14.3 Effect of Termination

Upon termination of your account:

  • Your right to use the Service immediately ceases
  • We may delete Your Content and account data within 30 days, as described in our Privacy Policy
  • You remain liable for any outstanding fees or obligations incurred before termination
  • Sections that by their nature should survive termination will continue to apply (including Sections 6, 8, 12, 13, 15, and 16)

14.4 Data Retrieval

Before terminating your account, you should export any data you wish to retain (see Section 10). We are not obligated to provide access to Your Content after account termination.

15. Modifications to Terms

15.1 Right to Modify

We may modify these Terms at any time to reflect changes in:

  • Legal or regulatory requirements
  • Service features or functionality
  • Business practices or security measures
  • User feedback or operational needs

15.2 Notice of Changes

For material changes to these Terms, we will provide at least 30 days' advance notice by:

  • Posting the updated Terms in the Service with a new "Last Updated" date
  • Sending an email notification to your registered email address
  • Displaying a prominent notice within the Service

For non-material changes (such as clarifications or formatting), we may provide shorter notice or update the Terms immediately.

15.3 Acceptance of Changes

Your continued use of the Service after the effective date of modified Terms constitutes your acceptance of the changes. If you do not agree to the modified Terms, you must stop using the Service and may terminate your account before the changes take effect.

15.4 Version Control

We maintain archived versions of previous Terms. You may request a copy of prior versions by contacting brad@headlines.fm.

16. Dispute Resolution and Governing Law

16.1 Governing Law

These Terms and any disputes arising from or relating to the Service shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Province of Ontario and the federal laws of Canada applicable therein, without regard to conflict of law principles.

16.2 Jurisdiction and Venue

Subject to the dispute resolution process below, you agree that the courts of Toronto, Ontario shall have exclusive jurisdiction to resolve any disputes arising from these Terms or the Service.

16.3 Two-Step Dispute Resolution

Before initiating formal legal proceedings, we both agree to attempt to resolve disputes through the following process:

Step 1: Good-Faith Negotiation

  • Either party must send written notice of the dispute to the other party
  • Both parties agree to engage in good-faith negotiations for at least 30 days
  • Notice to us should be sent to brad@headlines.fm

Step 2: Arbitration or Court Proceedings

  • If negotiation fails, either party may proceed to binding arbitration under the rules of the ADR Institute of Canada, or
  • Either party may commence proceedings in the courts of Toronto, Ontario

16.4 Small Claims Carve-Out

Notwithstanding the above, either party may bring an individual action in small claims court for disputes within that court's jurisdiction, without first engaging in the dispute resolution process.

16.5 No Class Actions

YOU AGREE THAT ANY DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCEEDINGS WILL BE CONDUCTED ONLY ON AN INDIVIDUAL BASIS AND NOT IN A CLASS, CONSOLIDATED, OR REPRESENTATIVE ACTION. You waive any right to participate in class-action lawsuits or class-wide arbitration.

16.6 Emergency Relief

Nothing in this section prevents either party from seeking emergency injunctive or equitable relief from a court to protect intellectual property rights or prevent irreparable harm.

17. General Provisions

17.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and any other policies referenced herein, constitute the entire agreement between you and us regarding the Service and supersede all prior agreements, understandings, and communications.

17.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, that provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable, or if modification is not possible, it shall be severed. The remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

17.3 No Waiver

Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of that right or provision. Any waiver must be in writing and signed by an authorized representative.

17.4 Assignment

You may not assign, transfer, or delegate these Terms or your account without our prior written consent. We may freely assign these Terms and our rights and obligations to any affiliate, successor, or purchaser of our business or assets.

17.5 Force Majeure

We shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performance due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including acts of God, natural disasters, war, terrorism, labour disputes, or government actions.

17.6 Relationship of Parties

Nothing in these Terms creates a partnership, joint venture, agency, or employment relationship between you and us. You are an independent user of the Service.

17.7 Language

These Terms have been drafted in English. If these Terms are translated into any other language, the English version shall prevail in case of any inconsistency or conflict.

17.8 Electronic Communications

You consent to receive communications from us electronically, including via email or through the Service. You agree that electronic communications satisfy any legal requirement that communications be in writing.

18. Contact Information

If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding these Terms, please contact us:

Email: brad@headlines.fm

For privacy-related inquiries, see our Privacy Policy for contact information.

By using Headlines, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service.