My main Android phone is now 99% Google free
5 hours ago
- #Digital Privacy
- #Open Source Software
- #Android Customization
- Author's main Android phone now runs Google-free using LineageOS, without Google accounts, Play Services, or apps like Maps.
- A second stock Android phone is kept at home for banking apps and allows safe experimentation on the main device.
- Previously used GrapheneOS for its sandboxed Google Play Services and security features, but switched back to LineageOS due to device support.
- Uses minimal apps from F-Droid, with Unlauncher as a text-only home screen, and proprietary apps like WhatsApp and Steam from official websites.
- Relies on self-hosting via a Raspberry Pi and Syncthing for file synchronization, avoiding cloud services for privacy and control.
- For maps, uses OpenStreetMap-based apps like CoMaps, occasionally accessing Google Maps via browser for reviews and opening hours.
- Contacts and calendars are synced via DAVx5 using mailbox.org, with passwords managed through KeePass across devices.
- Considers switching to a Linux phone like postmarketOS in the future, despite potential challenges with messaging apps.
- The setup emphasizes privacy, device ownership, and minimalism, extending battery life and reducing tracking.