Security-focused Android ROM without Google services
The fact that Android is an open source operating system makes it possible, among many other things, for the most enthusiastic developers to create operating systems based on it. There are quite a few, and GrapheneOS is one of them.
An Android based on user security and privacy
First of all, if you are thinking of downloading it, you should know that it will only work if you have a Google Pixel 3 or higher. So if your phone is Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, or any other brand, you won't be able to run it.
That said, we can tell you that Graphene was developed based on AOSP (Android Open source Project) prioritizing to aspects such as privacy and user security. This means that you will be able to enjoy the usual Android functions, except for those that compromise your data, either in terms of privacy or the sensitivity of whatever you handle.
And based on these principles, Google services are dispensed with, which is a no-brainer for many. This means that you will have to resort to different app stores, search engines, and mail servers. It has just over a dozen preinstalled apps, the basics for the system to work and fulfill the most recurring functions (settings, file manager, phone app, camera, messaging app...). This is a pure Android and has its own security verification system to ensure that there is no manipulation or change to the operating system that has not been executed by the user.
Requirements and additional information:
- You will need to have a Pixel 3 phone or higher.
With a degree in History, and later, in Documentation, I have over a decade of experience testing and writing about apps: reviews, guides, articles, news, tricks, and more. They have been countless, especially on Android, an operating system...
Susana Arjona