One comment I consistently see whenever I talk about Android or Apple is around data privacy. It seems everyone has their concerns, no matter which camp they're in. Curious about this myself, I started digging deeper to discover which platform is truly better for privacy. My research brought me to GrapheneOS.
What is GrapheneOS?
GrapheneOS is an ultra-secure, privacy-focused version of Android designed specifically to eliminate all unnecessary trackers, bloatware, and data collection inherent in most operating systems, even Google's own PixelOS. I installed it on a Google Pixel 9a to test whether a privacy-first OS could realistically be used daily.
GrapheneOS is open-source and gives users granular control over app permissions, network access, camera usage, and more. It removes Google services entirely by default, but importantly, it still allows access to apps via the Google Play Store, F-Droid (an open-source app store), and Aurora Store (for anonymous downloads from Google Play).
Installing GrapheneOS
Installing GrapheneOS turned out to be far simpler than anticipated:
- Restart the phone in bootloader mode (hold the Power Up button).
- Connect it to your computer.
- Navigate to the GrapheneOS website.
- Follow straightforward instructions, and within about 15 minutes, your phone is running a clean install of GrapheneOS.
Initial Setup and Apps
Once GrapheneOS is up, installing essential apps is straightforward. You can opt for open-source privacy-focused apps like Proton Mail and Proton Drive, or if you prefer, standard Google apps—bearing in mind this somewhat defeats the privacy-oriented purpose.
Daily Usability of GrapheneOS
Camera Performance
GrapheneOS's default camera app doesn't provide the advanced image processing Pixel phones are renowned for. The images aren't terrible, but they're significantly below Pixel standards. Fortunately, if photography matters, you can reinstall Google's official Camera app or seek third-party alternatives.
Banking Apps
Before installing GrapheneOS, I worried about compatibility with banking apps. Thankfully, mine worked without issue, though some users have reported compatibility problems. It's worth checking this compatibility list before proceeding.
Contactless Payments
A notable drawback is the lack of support for Google Wallet, meaning no contactless payments via your phone. The workaround is to use a smartwatch for payments or revert to carrying physical cards.
Battery Life
One of GrapheneOS's surprising strengths is improved battery life. Without constant background processes and app sync operations, standby time and general battery performance noticeably improved. During testing, standby usage was astonishingly low, and active battery use consistently provided two full days per charge.
Security and Privacy Features
GrapheneOS enhances privacy with features like automatic Wi-Fi and Bluetooth disconnection after inactivity and disabling the USB-C port unless charging. These advanced settings give users significant control over their device's security.
Storage and Profiles
Interestingly, storage usage between PixelOS and GrapheneOS was similar, about 14-15 GB used. GrapheneOS offers profile support, allowing you to compartmentalise apps:
- Google apps and Android Auto in one profile.
- Social media apps, isolated from sensitive data.
- Financial apps, locked behind a separate pin-protected profile.
Going Back to PixelOS
If GrapheneOS isn't right for you, reverting to PixelOS is equally easy—about 15 minutes, following a simple reversal of the initial installation process.
Conclusion
GrapheneOS isn't for everyone. It's designed for users deeply committed to data privacy and security without sacrificing basic usability. While some compromises exist (such as contactless payments and certain app compatibilities), it offers unparalleled control over your digital footprint.
If data privacy is your priority, GrapheneOS is arguably the best way to achieve it on a smartphone today.
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Thanks for reading—see you in the next post!
