so Android is mostly developed by google so I assume it also sends a lot of data over to google. Is there an OS that’s privacy respecting?
AOSP-derived ROMs like LineageOS, Copperhead, GrapheneOS and Calyx are specifically developed as alternative android distributions that do not rely on Google to function
IMO Graphene is the only true option in this list, with Copperhead being aggressively sus given the history
Graphene is the best option but lineageos is also good and covers many devices. The con of lineageos is the lack of hardened security which graphene provides.
If only it wasn’t developed by a complete psycho. Even Louis Rossman couldn’t handle it, and he ended up refusing to use GrapheneOS because he couldn’t trust someone who is so unhinged with the privacy and security of his personal device.
I’m not saying I hate GrapheneOS, I actually use it currently, but it’s a good point to bring up.
Well, from what i understand the nutcase quit after Louis Rossman said that, so no idea where things stand these days
I would recommend GrapheneOS. There are literally no Google dependencies at all. They have reimplemented privacy friendly alternatives for all built in functionalities typically depending on google such as for location.
Additionally, with their custom built compatibility layer, they allow you to install google play services as a regular app, and fully control which permissions you grant it, which can be useful for apps which depend on google to give you notifications.
Grapheneos is also at the bleeding edge of speed to deliver security updates several times a week.
And with user profiles you can fully separate apps yet they have a custom way of piping notifications between profiles as profiles is a particularly convenient way to isolate apps and prevent them from knowing what other apps are installed.
It’s not perfect but it’s definitely the most secure and most privacy respecting, it’s user friendly, puts the user back in control and works really well the moment you have adjusted to the new way of using android and make use of all the features.
Edit: big caveat, it is only supported on Pixel devices, which may seem illogical for an OS getting as far away from google as possible, but it’s for their good security hardware, driver support and allowance for installing an alternative OS.
I’m glad I picked up a second Pixel 6 at a good price, tried GrapheneOS out on it and I am slowly turning it into my daily driver. I couldn’t be happier with it so far, battery life seems better, I feel more like I “own” the device and that it isn’t up to sneaky shit etc.
It was by far, the easiest OS install I’ve ever done, I hope they keep up their awesome work. Now I just gotta find a good OS for my tablet.
I understand your frustration. I bought a second hand pixel 6 specifically for GOS and couldn’t be happier.
Started with a pixel 5 but hated that device due to its poor display design where the display wouldn’t stop popping out of the chassis and the earpiece which needed contact to the display would just disconnect when the display was out and the audio quality was bad.
I personally recommend the pixel 6, it’s a good device. It still has guaranteed security updates until at least October 2026 and can be found for rather cheap on the second hand market.
I’m thinking of selling my redMi note 11 pro to buy a second hand pixel 6, do you think it’s a good idea?
I’m running graphene for over a year now and its great
/e/OS
i have been using grapheneos for a while now, and honestly its been great. the only problem is limited hardware support (only pixel ≥5 unless officially supported - due to unlockable bootloader). i have gone cold turkey from google apps like maps, although it is possible to set it up to work. banking apps and stuff dont work obviously, but those apps should be avoided anyways. ive also heard (some) good things about lineage, calyx, and /e/. i wish linux phones were daily drivable, but sadly it is not yet practicle for most. i would personally recommend at least looking into graphene on a pixel.
