Living Without Google and Apple: A Guide to Open Source Phones

The Rise of Open Source Smartphones

In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards open source smartphones as people become more aware of privacy concerns surrounding big tech companies like Google and Apple. One company at the forefront of this trend is Above Phone, which offers custom Android phones running GrapheneOS - a privacy and security focused mobile operating system.

Hakee, the founder and CEO of Above Phone, explains that the company was born out of the pandemic, when many people were spending more time online and becoming more conscious of digital privacy issues. They saw a need for smartphones that gave users more control over their data and weren't beholden to big tech ecosystems.

Key Differences Between Open Source and Proprietary Phones

The main difference between open source phones like those running GrapheneOS and proprietary phones from Google and Apple comes down to transparency and control:

• Open source operating systems allow you to view the code and see exactly what the phone is doing
• Proprietary phones connect back to company servers frequently, sending various data and identifiers
• Open source phones have zero connections to big tech companies by default
• Users have much more control over what data is collected and shared on open source phones

Hakee notes that Google and Apple phones are estimated to generate around 12 GB of data about users every 12 hours. Much of this data collection happens in the background without users being fully aware.

Tracking and Data Collection on Proprietary Phones

Some of the key ways proprietary smartphones track users include:

• Operating system level tracking of device identifiers, location, etc.
• Advertising IDs that can be shared across devices
• Secret databases like Google's Sensorvault that store location history
• Apps with embedded trackers and analytics

While phones may offer privacy settings, these often don't actually prevent data collection at the system level. Open source phones aim to give users true control over their data.

Key Features of Open Source Phones

Some of the main benefits and features of open source smartphones like the Above Phone include:

• No pre-installed Google or Apple services/apps
• Ability to use alternative app stores like F-Droid for open source apps
• Built-in privacy protections and security hardening
• Options for offline navigation, maps, etc.
• Easy ways to sync data between devices without the cloud
• Multiple user profiles for separating personal/work use

Hakee demonstrated how the Above Phone comes pre-loaded with privacy-respecting alternatives to common apps:

• NewPipe instead of YouTube - allows background play, downloads, no ads
• OsmAnd for maps/navigation - works offline
• AntennaPod for podcasts
• Various options for encrypted messaging, email, etc.

Transitioning Away from Google and Apple

For many users, completely abandoning Google and Apple services can seem daunting. Hakee recommends a gradual approach:

• Start by using an open source phone alongside your existing device
• Slowly transition key services and data over time
• Keep your old phone for certain ecosystem-locked apps if needed
• Take advantage of options to run Google services in a sandboxed environment if necessary

The goal is to reduce reliance on and data collection by big tech companies, not necessarily eliminate them entirely overnight.

Common Challenges When Switching

Some of the most common challenges people face when moving to an open source phone include:

• Losing access to certain ecosystem-specific apps and features (iMessage, FaceTime, etc.)
• Finding alternatives for banking apps that may not work
• Transitioning data and accounts away from Google/Apple services
• Getting used to new apps and workflows

However, Hakee notes that for most users, nearly all their needs can be met with open source alternatives. It just requires an adjustment period and willingness to try new apps.

Privacy and Security Benefits

Using an open source phone like those from Above Phone provides several key privacy and security advantages:

• No background tracking or data collection by default
• Ability to use the phone without any Google/Apple account
• Regular security updates and patches
• Hardened OS with additional protections against exploits
• Easy encrypted communications
• Options for offline use to avoid network-based tracking

For high-risk users or those extremely concerned about privacy, an open source phone offers much more control and peace of mind.

Getting Started with Open Source Phones

For those interested in trying out an open source smartphone, Hakee recommends a few options:

1. Learn more through resources like learn.abovephone.com
2. Try flashing GrapheneOS yourself on a compatible device
3. Purchase a pre-configured phone from a company like Above Phone

Above Phone offers several models at different price points, all running GrapheneOS. They also provide support to help users transition from their existing devices.

Key Takeaways

• Open source phones offer much more privacy and control compared to Google/Apple devices
• Nearly all common smartphone needs can be met with open source alternatives
• Transitioning away from big tech ecosystems can be done gradually
• Using open source phones reduces data collection and tracking significantly
• Options exist for both DIY enthusiasts and those wanting pre-configured devices

As more people become aware of digital privacy issues, open source smartphones provide a compelling alternative to proprietary ecosystems. While they require some adjustment, they offer a way to reduce reliance on big tech companies and take back control of personal data.

Conclusion

Living without Google and Apple is increasingly possible thanks to the maturation of open source mobile operating systems and privacy-focused hardware. While it may not be for everyone, exploring open source phones is a great way to enhance digital privacy and reduce data collection. Whether you choose to dive in fully or just experiment alongside your existing device, open source mobile technology is worth exploring for the privacy-conscious.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kdw9QR_zaa8