Q: What is a “de-Googled” phone?
A: A de-Googled phone is one that has had all Google applications and services removed from the device. This means no Google Play Store, Google Maps, or any other Google app pre-installed on the phone. Other invasive Android apps are generally removed or replaced with non-Google alternatives. This allows you to use an open-source version of Android without compromising on privacy.
Q: Why should I consider a de-Googled phone?
A: A de-Googled phone provides many benefits such as improved privacy, better security, and greater control over your data. By removing Google services, you can have more control over what information on your phone is being shared and with whom. Basically you must assume that everything you do, type, say, keep (photos, docs etc) or is visible via your camera, can be seen by Google and used for any purpose they wish. It can also be sold, hacked, or handed over to third parties without your consent.
Q: What is it like to own a De-Googled phone?
A: De-Googled phones are given a fresh new Android operating system that looks and functions the same way as any other Android phone, just without anything invasive.
Once you have experienced the quietness, the lack of pushy notifications, absence of unwanted apps that cannot be uninstalled and the simplicity of owning a DeGoogled phone, you’ll never want to go back!
Another benefit of owning a DeGoogled phone is usually superior battery life and performance too. Along with that it’s possible to extend the life of a phone, past manufacturer’s security and OS updates, so more up to date and secure device – bonus.
Q: Will I lose any features with a de-Googled phone?
A: Yes, you will lose some Google-specific features, such as Google Assistant and certain Google APIs. However, you can still use alternative apps and services to replace these features.
Q: Does a de-Googled phone still work like a regular smartphone?
A: Yes, a de-Googled phone still functions as a standard smartphone. You can make phone calls, send text messages, install apps, and browse the internet.
Q: What apps can I use on a de-Googled phone?
A: There are many alternative apps available that can replace Google applications on de-Googled phones. For example, Open Street Maps or Magic Earth are alternatives to Google Maps, while Brave or Firefox are alternative browsers to Google Chrome. For email, there is ProtonMail and K-9 Mail. F-droid and Aurora store are alternative app stores to Google Playstore.
Q: Can I still get security updates on a de-Googled phone?
A: Yes, you can still receive security updates on a de-Googled phone. However, it might depend on which version of Android your phone is running. Some ROMs like LineageOS are excellent at providing updates frequently but others may not be as quick in offering them.
Q: What is a ROM ?
A: In the context of Android phones, the ROM is the operating software necessary to operate the device.
Q: Which phones can be de-Googled?
A: Many Android phones can be de-Googled; however, some devices may have more significant firmware restrictions based on the specific hardware and software used. Popular phones include Motorola, OnePlus, Samsung and Google Pixel.
Q: Will I lose any features or functionality on a de-Googled phone?
A: While you may lose some of the features associated with Google services, alternative applications can still offer similar functions without tracking your behavior, and being invasive to your privacy.
Q: How is a phone de-Googleed ?
A: To de-Google a phone, the “stock” software is replaced with a de-Googled software like LineageOS, GrapheneOS, /e/ project etc. This process typically involves unlocking the bootloader and installing a custom ROM that does not include Google services. Although it is possible to install an anonymous version of Google services, such as microG/Open GApps/MindTheGapps.
Q: What is LineageOS ?
A: LineageOS is an open-source operating system based on the Android platform. It is developed by a community of developers and offers features not found in the original Android OS. As it’s one of the longest running projects, supports the most number of devices and is the base for other De-Google projects – we recommend it.
Q: What is GrapheneOS ?
A: GrapheneOS is a highly advanced operating system only developed for Google Pixel phones, and although we love Lineage, we do consider GrapheneOS superior in its level of security, so, perhaps a better choice, if the phone is a Google Pixel.
Q: Can I De-Google my phone myself ?
A: Entirely possible – provided you have (or can aquire) a phone that the bootloader can be unlocked, is (an exact model) supported by one of the major de-Googled distributions, have 6 or so hours free if you’re technically minded, much longer if not, are not concerned with “bricking” (made completely unusable) the device and are able to think on your feet when the instructions don’t match reality.
Q: Is it legal to de-google my phone?
A: Yes, it is entirely legal to de-google your phone since you own the device.
Q: Is this phone unlocked to any network?
All of our DeGoogled phones are unlocked to any network, therefore will work with any sim card.