How de-Googled is Lineage OS?

On the whole, I'm satisfied that Lineage OS, as I use it, is preventing nearly all of Google's data collection. I don't install or use any Google services, I don't enable A-GPS, I don't use Chromium or the built-in browser. I could eliminate more arcane aspects of data collection - like the Internet connectivity check - if I wanted to take the trouble.

I don't think that taking reasonable precautions to avoid becoming part of Google's data collection economy makes me a tinfoil-hatter. Nevertheless, I would probably use GrapheneOS instead, if I had devices that supported it. Ironically, if I wanted to use GrapheneOS, I'd have to buy Google-branded mobile devices, which is an irony that really stings.

Kevin Boone

The existence of Android versions like LineageOS, GrapheneOS, /e/OS, and similar, other de-Googled mobile operating systems is absolutely vital. The market is dominated by Google Android and iOS, and since full alternatives that aren't Android or iOS are effectively impossible, de-Googled Android is the best we're going to get. Regulators must ensure that banks, government ID applications, popular messaging platforms, and similarly crucial applications work 100% reliably on de-Googled Android, and do not require Google Play Services in any way, shape, or form.

In The Netherlands, there are basically three banks that control the market, and there's really just one messaging application that rules the country - WhatsApp - and their use is effectively required to participate in society. Consequently, these applications and platforms should be accessible by as many people as possible, and that definitely includes de-Googled Android devices.

Being alive should not be taxed by Apple or Google.