De-Google Project Update
9 months ago
- #tech-independence
- #privacy
- #alternatives
- The author introduced a family project in spring 2024 to reduce dependency on Google and other big tech services.
- A table lists various needs (e.g., Office, Photos, Maps) with current suppliers and potential alternatives, color-coded by priority.
- Key criteria for replacements include not being ad-supported, VC-funded, or owned by Google, Microsoft, or Amazon.
- Office: Transitioning from Google Workspace to Proton is anticipated to be challenging but necessary due to discomfort with Google.
- Photos: Seeking alternatives to Google Photos, with Dropbox and Immich (self-hosted) suggested by commenters.
- Video Meetings: Considering alternatives to Google Meet, suspecting it of data mining.
- Maps: Strong dissatisfaction with Google Maps but finding viable replacements difficult.
- Browser: Moving away from Chrome to alternatives like Safari, Firefox, or Vivaldi.
- Search: Exploring Kagi as a potential alternative to mainstream search engines.
- Chat: Signal is the preferred choice for personal communication.
- Photo Editing: Lightroom is currently used but alternatives like Capture One or Darktable are being considered due to Adobe's pricing and AI focus.
- In-car Interface: Android Auto is highly valued but alternatives are limited.
- Music: Transitioning from YouTube Music to Plex and Qobuz for music discovery and playback.
- TV: Using Roku and Apple TV, with a focus on month-to-month subscriptions to avoid long-term commitments.
- Commenters recommend Immich for photo storage and Proton Drive for office needs, highlighting their features and usability.