Google Pixel 4a with GrapheneOS. NOW?

qimmik03

Hello,

I was just looking for some input about whether or not getting a google pixel 4a and installing grapheneOS on it would be fine, security wise?

I am not too familiar with security and with updates not continuing after a certain point. But is there a reason why I should not even consider this as an option as a phone for at least 2-4 years? I like the pixel 4 compared to newer models.

Thank you very much

kopolee11

Pixel 4a is likely to stop having full security support in August 2023. (Source) After that it will increasingly be insecure to use the phone, as security exploits won't be patched. This is antithetical to the goals of GrapheneOS.

It is probably more economical to buy a Pixel 6, 6a, or 7 since they will have a much longer support period. (Albert with a higher upfront cost)

qimmik03

kopolee11 Great. Thank you for this!

matchboxbananasynergy

To further expand on the points mentioned above, here is the project's device recommendations as of this time:

https://grapheneos.org/faq#recommended-devices

There is also this section on device lifetime and what support GrapheneOS can, but most importantly cannot offer beyond that:

https://grapheneos.org/faq#device-lifetime

Hope this helps!