Ask away. Here are the answers.
Something not covered? The simple guide walks through every step, and anything you add in Porchlight you can always remove.
Good to know.
What does Porchlight cost?
Nothing. There is nothing to buy and no upgrade to unlock.
Who can see my family’s posts?
Only the people your family invited. There is no public profile, no search and no way for a stranger to find your family.
Do I need to download anything?
No. Porchlight works in any browser on a phone or a computer, and you can add it to your home screen. Apps for iPhone and Android are on the way.
Is it hard for grandparents?
It was built with grandparents in mind. No password, large clear text that follows the phone’s text size, and a simple guide that walks through every step.
How do people join?
With your family’s invite code, or a link that already has the code in it. They enter their name and the one-time code we send them.
Are there ads?
A few, each clearly marked Sponsored, and never inside a time capsule, a voice note or the Flash. They carry no tracking, and your family’s memories are never sold or shared with an advertiser.
Can I delete something I posted?
Yes. Anything you add, you can remove.
Is there a dark mode?
Yes. Choose light, dark, or follow your phone, and your choice follows you between the app and the web.
Who can see what I post?
Only the members of your family on Porchlight, or only a smaller circle inside it if you choose one.
Can I remove something later?
Yes. Anything you add, you can remove.
Does everyone get the same question?
Yes. The whole family gets the same question at the same moment, so the answers read like one shared snapshot of the week.
Does everyone see the same question?
Yes. The question is the same for the whole family all week.
Can I write to someone who is not on Porchlight yet?
Yes. Address it by name and it waits for them.
Can I open it early?
No. That is the whole idea.
Can anyone add an event?
Yes. Anyone in the family can add one.
Is my location tracked in the background?
No. It is shared only while you have chosen to share it, and it is forgotten when you stop.
What happens if someone is removed?
Their access ends. What they shared with the family stays with the family.
Still wondering? Try it with your family.
Free and invite only. Nothing to install.