Frequently asked questions:

What is a Google-free Android device?

A Google-free (also called De-Googled) Android device is a smartphone or tablet that operates on an Android platform without any of Google’s applications, services, or integrations. These devices use alternative operating systems based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) to enhance privacy and security by removing Google’s data collection services. Popular OS options include LineageOS, eOS, iodéOS, GrapheneOS (known on certain devices as Ghost Phone, Above Phone, or Ninja Phone), CalyxOS. Without pre-installed Google apps, users gain greater control over their data and can still access a wide range of apps through alternative app stores like F-Droid and Aurora Store, ensuring a more private, customized, and secure mobile experience.

Which phones and tablets do you offer and why?

Mostly, we focus on Google Pixel devices due to their compatibility with GrapheneOS and Clayx OS (paused for now), leveraging their security chips and overall performance for enhanced privacy.
Google Pixel phones are considered private and secure because they use Qualcomm chipsets, which are known for being more security-focused compared to MediaTek. Qualcomm provides regular firmware updates, collaborates with the security community, and supports the open-source community, enhancing trust and ensuring timely patching of vulnerabilities. MediaTek, while improving with its Dimensity line, has historically had weaker support and restrictive documentation that can limit security updates and custom firmware development. This makes Qualcomm a more secure and reliable choice for users prioritizing privacy and security.

Which Google-free OS should I choose, and why would I need a Google-free phone?

Choosing a Google-free OS depends on your priorities for privacy, security, and user-friendliness. GrapheneOS offers the highest level of security and privacy enhancements, especially suitable for those willing to invest time in setup and learning, as it’s exclusively available for Google Pixel devices. On the other hand, CalyxOS provides an out-of-the-box privacy-ready experience, focusing on user-friendliness with pre-installed privacy apps and optional Google functionalities through microG. A Google-free phone can enhance your privacy by minimizing data sharing with different services and servers and offering control over your data, protecting you from potential exploitation and maintaining your digital autonomy.
If you live in a repressive country where internet censorship and infringement on people’s rights occur, such as Russia, Venezuela, Belarus, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, or the United Arab Emirates, a Google-free phone along with our partner`s VPNs are highly recommended. Our devices can help safeguard your privacy and maintain access to uncensored information.

What privacy features do your Google-free phones offer?

Our Google-free phones have had all Google apps and services removed to ensure your data remains private, keeping you away from potential tracking by major tech companies.

How are software updates managed on your Google-free phones?

Our devices receive direct updates from the operating system developers, ensuring you consistently have the latest security enhancements without compromising your privacy.

Can popular apps still be used on these privacy phones?

Yes, our phones support popular apps via the Sandboxed Google Play feature (GrapheneOS), providing access to the Play Store’s offerings while maintaining your privacy.

Is transitioning to a Google-free phone complicated?

Switching is simple. Various methods exist for transferring data. Use apps like Smartswitch or Smart Transfer for contacts, and SMS Import/Export for messages. We offer a detailed video guide on the COURSES page and support to ensure a smooth transition, covering the transfer of contacts, apps, and data.

Do your devices have root access?

No, our devices do not come with root access. GrapheneOS/CalyxOS, which powers these devices, is specifically designed to enhance security and privacy by not supporting root access. Rooting can compromise the security model of the operating system, making devices more vulnerable to malware and unauthorized access. By excluding root access, GrapheneOS/CalyxOS ensures a secure environment, maintaining the integrity and protection of your data. This approach is a fundamental part of providing a secure and privacy-focused experience.

How do I set up my Google-free phone?

Setting up is straightforward with guides available on our COURSES page to assist with installing necessary app stores and configuring your device.

Will my carrier accept a phone with a different operating system?

Yes, carriers function seamlessly with these phones, as their operational compatibility remains unaffected by the removal of Google components.

What are the international shipping costs?

Please ask us about your case, but in general the shipping costs outside the USA range from $50 to $180, depending on the destination and the postal carrier. Canada ranges from $40 to $80. Please be ready for import taxes if any applicable for your country.

Are phones available in stock?

We typically procure phones upon order to manage inventory costs and reduce depreciation, with a typical delivery timeframe of 5-12 business days.

Are your phones secure? Are they new or refurbished?

We go to great lengths to ensure our phones are secure before shipment. We use both brand-new and gently used devices to guarantee product quality. All our used devices undergo a thorough 35-point inspection conducted by trained technicians utilizing the latest software available. Devices that pass this rigorous inspection are considered fully functional, ensuring you receive a secure and reliable product.
If you want a new phone - just let us know or you may purchase it directly from the Google Store, and use our service to prepare it for you.

What applications are compatible with your Google-free phones?

GrapheneOS/CalyxOS support a wide range of security and privacy-oriented apps, including Signal, Telegram, and Protonmail. You can watch our video about privacy apps we recommend on our COURSES page.

Why might some banking and government apps not work?

Banking and government apps may have dependencies on services not present in alternative OS environments, which can affect their functionality. And they usually track you. We recommend using secure browsers to access banking websites as a workaround. We advise against using government apps on our phones, as doing so may compromise your privacy. If you must use them, consider “freezing” these apps when they are not in use or use a special "blank" profile. Whenever possible, it is best to avoid installing such apps on your Google-free phone to maintain optimal security and privacy.

What is MicroG and how does it assist?

MicroG is a reimplementation of Google Play Services, enabling app support on AOSP-based ROMs like CalyxOS. It offers compatibility with Google APIs while maintaining a privacy-first approach.

I do not know how to use Android at all. What should I do?

No problem - we provide a detailed video on the COURSES page on how to setup and use your new Google-free phone. The recommended apps and updates, app stores like F-Droid and Aurora are also explained there.

How do I activate my new Google-free phone with my carrier?

Simply transfer your SIM card or obtain a SIM kit from your preferred provider, following their activation steps.

I live in Russia and have used VPNs like NordVPN and ProtonVPN, but now they are completely blocked. Will your VPNs work in Russia?

Yes, the VPNs we offer have multiple proprietary protocols and work well in countries like Russia, Venezuela, Indonesia, Belarus, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and the United Arab Emirates. We highly recommend purchasing several our VPN options to ensure continued access in case one becomes possibly blocked.
Please try before you buy or use the trial period.