I've switched from "normal" Android to GrapheneOS

Nader K. Rad, 2021-08-16

So, I finally did it!

I've replaced the stock Android on my phone with a custom one called GrapheneOS, which is known for being the most secure and private option.

It's not as convenient as a "normal" Android, and sometimes you have to spend a lot of time finding an alternative app (because some apps don't work on it) or alternative workflow, but it's worth it. It feels good to know that the centers of power have less power over me.

Just imagine what happens if Google decides to block your account right now. Well, it doesn't have any real impact on me because of all the changes I've made in the past few years, including this last one. I also don't like my phone to install Facebook and similar services without letting me get rid of them.

Migrating to GrapheneOS was not as difficult as I expected. Although, that tells more about my initial expectations than anything else. It took me a few days to set up everything the way I wanted, and I enjoyed the process very much! Give it a try, it's an amazing challenge!

By the way, GrapheneOS only works on Pixel phones. If you have a different phone or prefer a more convenient setup that is still privacy-friendly, you can use LineageOS, or its more straightforward fork, /e/, among others.

https://grapheneos.org/

https://lineageos.org/

https://e.foundation/