1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using the I hear Dataset platform ("Platform"), you accept and agree to be bound by the terms and provision of this agreement. If you do not agree to abide by the above, please do not use this service.

2. Description of Service

The I hear Dataset platform is a data collection service that allows users to record, upload, and contribute voice recordings to improve hearing technology, speech recognition systems, and assistive devices for people with hearing challenges.

3. User Responsibilities

• You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials
• You agree to provide accurate and complete information when creating an account
• You will not upload any recordings that contain offensive, illegal, or inappropriate content
• You will not attempt to harm, disrupt, or interfere with the Platform's operation
• You are responsible for all activities that occur under your account

4. Recording Contributions

• By submitting recordings, you grant us a perpetual, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, modify, and distribute your recordings for research and development purposes
• Recordings may be used to train machine learning models and improve hearing technology
• You retain ownership of your recordings but grant us broad usage rights
• Recordings may be shared with research partners and collaborators
• You may not submit recordings that infringe on third-party rights

5. Privacy Policy

5.1 Information We Collect

We collect information that you provide directly to us, including:

• Account information (username, email address, speaker ID)
• Voice recordings and audio files you upload
• Metadata associated with your recordings (location, time, device information)
• Usage data and interaction logs

5.2 How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide, maintain, and improve our services
• Train and develop machine learning models for hearing technology
• Conduct research and development activities
• Communicate with you about your account and our services
• Ensure platform security and prevent fraud

5.3 Data Sharing and Disclosure

We may share your information in the following circumstances:

• With research partners and collaborators for scientific research purposes
• With service providers who assist us in operating the Platform
• When required by law or to protect our rights and safety
• In connection with a business transfer or merger
• With your explicit consent

5.4 Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information and recordings. However, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure.

5.5 Data Retention

We retain your recordings and account information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy, unless a longer retention period is required by law.

5.6 Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information and recordings
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your account and data
• Withdraw consent for data processing
• Object to certain types of data processing

6. Intellectual Property

The Platform, including its design, features, and functionality, is owned by us and protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. Your recordings remain your property, but you grant us extensive usage rights as described in Section 4.

7. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, we shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenues, whether incurred directly or indirectly, or any loss of data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses resulting from your use of the Platform.

8. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Platform, its operators, and affiliates from any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, and expenses (including legal fees) arising out of your use of the Platform or violation of these Terms.

9. Modifications to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. We will notify users of any material changes via email or through the Platform. Your continued use of the Platform after such modifications constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

10. Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your account at any time, with or without cause or notice, for any reason including violation of these Terms. You may also terminate your account at any time by contacting us.

11. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with applicable laws, without regard to conflict of law provisions.

12. Contact Information

If you have any questions about these Terms and Conditions or our Privacy Policy, please contact us through the Platform or via the contact information provided in your account settings.