Buying a Pixel phone because I like the camera and design. However I fear I could have some data safety problems, I'm mainly concerned about my internet activity (I occasionally scout the darknet), gallery (not what you think, I'm not that kind of person, but I have some LiveLeaks and EyeBleach gore) and apps (I pirated some apps) might cause me some problems. I like Google apps however and wouldn't like to let them go too much. I'm not even too concerned about logging to my google account to use certain stuff. Is Graphene the right choice? Or are there better alternatives for my case?
Is GrapheneOS right for me?
GOS seems to be perfectly fine for you. Install Sandboxed Google Play Services, log into your Google account and you will be happy.
- Edited
While I won't condone piracy (there's usually better FREE software for whatever you want to accomplish anyway), it seems to me that GrapheneOS would be the BEST option for you, since it is the ONLY operating system that allows google services to run under the same restrictions (sandbox) as other user installed software. That will substantially cut down on privacy concerns since those components won't have unrestricted access to everything as they do on EVERY other option where they're installed.
PS: I do NOT use google services at all, though I do have one google application, which is indispensable. Gmaps for commuting, since it can pick the best route based on current traffic conditions. Some people will say they prefer waze, but in reality, its just a different frontend on the exact same thing since google owns it.
Came from lineageos without any Google stuff. Honestly, being able to have a 2nd profile AND use some Google things improves functionality tremedously. Just hate that I had to buy a Google phone...