Just switched to a new phone carrier, and they had a promotion that included a free phone: the Google Pixel 8. I’m not a fan of Google, but I am a fan of free, so I took the bait.

It’s already bombarded me with pitches for their new AI bullshit. I’ve opted out of as much as the settings allow, but I’m under no illusion that doing so actually provides any real privacy.

So, damage control time.

On my previous device I used YouTube Vanced for music and videos, but I guess Vanced isn’t around anymore, and I’m pretty out of date on what the current options are… any insight on streaming specifically?

 

*I’m a medic who’s only surface-level competent with tech, so please idiot-proof any instructions.

Thanks all!

  • TheFool@infosec.pub
    0·
    5 months ago

    I‘m gonna be that guy and recommend GrapheneOS it is a different Android system and while that sounds like a really hard task to do for a beginner they have a really user friendly web-installer with step by step instructions. Adterwards you can just install and use google play store from their integrated app.

    It’s made specifically for Pixel phones and you can’t much more degoogle than that

    • ITGuyLevi@programming.dev
      0·
      5 months ago

      I’m gonna be the guy seconding it. It actually makes it feel like your own device. My favorite part is how each time you go to install an app it asks you if the app should have network access before it ever installs.