A great GrapheneOS "next steps" guide: github.com/Scrut1ny/GrapheneOS-Guide Chapter headings: 00:00 Intro 01:19 Overview 01:52 Purchasing the Phone 02:10 Pixel Hardware Benefits 04:33 Warning about Carrier Contracts 06:32 Cell service 07:09 Mobile Accessories 07:46 Settings Tutorial 16:26 Out of the Box Benefits 18:03 Other NBTV Resources 18:32 Conclusion
Hi Naomi, the PDF doesn't really cover how to get service outside the US. For example, I tried buying a sim card in Italy, and every store needed my passport. When I asked a friend, he stated that their government requires everyone to register to a carrier with identification. It was definitely difficult and I feel like, in either a video or an addendum to the PDF, that should be covered (when it's difficult to find service where laws are strict).
What you said wasnt true though due to the bad faith law in Michigan. Google aint your friend either because they know other buisnesses like insurances, governors, and other buisnesess like the black market and dark web. Everyone is a witness. They do not protect your phone number at all since they all know it. Thats why we still have a scam scanner on our phones. I knew something was sus. Google cannot be trusted either. ☦
My goal for 2024 will be to change my phone to a Google Pixel 7 or 8 and install GrapheneOS. I hope it will work because the phone is not cheap in my country. But it will be an investment for several years. Great video Naomi :) Greetings from Poland :)
@@onewa712the security updates won’t matter if he’s downloading grapheneOS. Because the security updates that the pixel 8 is getting for awhile is for normal pixel 8s not grapheneOS. Graphene OS gets its own security updates quite frequently actually, indefinitely.
Correct you'll update grapheenos not Google updates. What the team on Grapheenos will do is take Google's update and make a custom update from it. This way you'll get the new features and security update but from them.
This comment got shadow banned. Unfortunately Graphene OS on Google phone is not the answer. The micro chips on these phones are already compromised and pretty much every phone that has been produced since the 2000s ish. The spy software is hardwired in. Check for yourselves. You need an old phone pre 90,s They are not compromised and so much very harder to track and hack. The question is security versus convenience. Do you need Uber or TH-cam on your phone. Even the older phones are being compromised by the SIM card which carries this hardwired spy software. Again don't take my word go and check down that rabbit hole for yourselves. My answer I don't carry a phone out. If I need too Nokia 3010 in RFID bag. Why I keep hands free and my gaze up looking up and out for threats and cameras to avoid. Best of luck everyone in 1984.
@@RECONGHILLE13Your right That's why the big deal with Huawei phones. Chinese hardwired chips differently than ours. Difference was the data went to China instead.
@@RECONGHILLE13 lmao you must be trolling. The older phones dont support the newer standards. in some places 2/3g is being pahsed out. good luck with your 90s phone xD
I know but if your open to learning and ta it king one stpe at a time its so rewarding, I did the jump from Iphone and i havent looked back since....thats years of Iphone use by the way!
I gave up having a smartphone years ago. I now use a flip phone that doesn't run Android, and I rarely carry it with me when I leave the house. What a feeling it is to know I'm not tethered to the surveillance state when I walk out the door.
If you drive a modern car, it is watching you. Speed cameras are no longer just cameras. They too are sending information gleaned from your vehicle as it goes by. Kudos for making it harder for big brother but I think we are passed the age of privacy. ☮
We've lost this privacy war. It's gotten to the point where you can be tracked by the info you're NOT sending. Changes in one's behavior has been used by law enforcement many times to circumvent the encryption used on these phones.
Naomi. Once again you and your team have done an outstanding job educating me and the public. I can't wait to start using a de-googled phone. In your video you talked about not using a Sim card. I didn't know that was possible. Please do a video on not using a Sim card. Thank for all you guys do.❤
This comment has been shadow bannes. Unfortunately Graphene OS on Google phone is not the answer. The micro chips on these phones are already compromised and pretty much every phone that has been produced since the 2000s ish. The spy software is hardwired in. Check for yourselves. You need an old phone pre 90,s They are not compromised and so much very harder to track and hack. The question is security versus convenience. Do you need Uber or TH-cam on your phone. Even the older phones are being compromised by the SIM card which carries this hardwired spy software. Again don't take my word go and check down that rabbit hole for yourselves. My answer I don't carry a phone out. If I need too Nokia 3010 in RFID bag. Why I keep hands free and my gaze up looking up and out for threats and cameras to avoid. Best of luck everyone in 1984.
@@RECONGHILLE13 Right on point. No software will help when hardware is compromised. It can only slightly limit data collection but even that is pointless since in that case blocked data is actually not important.
This wasnt true though. Google was sued for privacy issues. Why trust them? Research the bad faith law in Michigan. I trust no one of these buisnesses even cops. They are in cohoots with our overlords and other crime rings. ☦
@@RECONGHILLE13 Yes! Please research the bad faith law in Michigan. We caught Whitmer and other overlords doing black market and doing dark web stuff. The truth is slipping out! ☦
@@RECONGHILLE13 I believe you're only getting banned because you're spamming the comment section with the same comment... You can add a comment to the video normally. Replying to every popular comment is something that bots tend to do...
I shut my phone OFF as soon as i get ready to leave the house! I am not available to anyone unless i am home and feel like answering! Its like having an answering machine again & i LOVE IT!! I run the cell phone on Lockdown mode--most functionality is not available& its not compromised. Love it.
I like the idea I heard (I believe from Mr. Snowden) of putting a hardware disconnect switch on the microphone to ensure that you aren't being listened to by spyware, commercial or state. It strikes me that, even with great guides, and Naomi's wonderful explanations, this kind of privacy is out of the reach of a number people, such as older, or less tech savvy individuals. Someone could resell the pixels with graphene already set up. But they'd have to be trustworthy. Maybe NBTV can resell them.
Just a lil fix he disconnects all the microphones and csmeras at the source wgile not using. I dunno about usong some other programs he prob does but im pretty sure if thy can listen in on a phone without a battery or sim card thy can prob activate a disconect switch
@@SirenaSpades Yes. GPS, audio, video, biometrics...IMSI, IMEI, MAC id... Your IP is shown in Google email. So your identity is tied to these identifiers. Having a de-Googled phone means replacing the original operating system by flashing a custom ROM. This is an open source Linux based OS like Graphene, Calyx, or Lineage. Linux has 40 + FOSS (free & open source) Which means developers can inspect the code for malware. So - the point is that if you never sign in to the phone, tablet, computer... The data you generate is not tied to You. The data is meaningless. Just random. Nothing being collected, to create a profile to be used by any group with bad intent. Nothing to be sent propaganda or to be used for fake news.
If you're talking to someone and it's not over the device itself you can just keep the phone in a pouch (or even a pocket) and it really won't hear anything significant. The only time this wouldn't work is if you were talking to someone _while_ using the device for something else.
There is no mobile phone signal where I live, so that should be pretty good for privacy, I think. 🙂 Love these videos with their mid-century modern styling!
So you think. I just completed a trip to Alaska. We had no cell coverage for calling or texting, but somehow other things on our phones were updated in real time. Mmm...
@@diann546sounds like a faraday cage is in the workings. Go on the dark web and I'm sure you will find methods to hide your identity I seen some of those modified cell phones. 73
Property that does not get a signal is sought after by those with autism & by those that are disabled cancer survivors from EMF radiation. Are you in a rural area wooded area in a valley? I'm in a wifi deadzone also, though ever so often when it is a light rain there are certain spots that get signals, I love that it is a wifi deadzone but I am surrounded by narcissists & criminals in the community I live in, I'd like to move to another wifi deadzone in a better area. It is so wrong that FCC is allowed to violate the American Disabilities Act by broadcasting harmful radiation everywhere they can.
Naomi. Thank you! Finally a video (perhaps a whole channel? it's the first video I have watched from you) with usefull, professional and not un-important infos, which is entertaining at the same time. Thank you so much and greetings from Germany. P.S. Installing Graphene OS on my Pixel was one of the easiest things I have ever done with an android device. It basically did everything itself. Finding the privacy settings in the Facebook app is 10 times more difficult than setting up Graphene OS!!! ;)
Hey Naomi, I just wanted to reach out and let you know how much I appreciate your informative and helpful videos. Your content is truly valuable and surpasses anything I've come across. Thanks to your incredible videos, I've managed to escape the rabbit hole and prioritize my digital privacy like never before. I must confess, I'm completely captivated by your intelligence. Thank you for everything you do to empower us in this digital age and help us stay secure 💕
if you do a cursory look around for info about her, she's INCREDIBLY brilliant! Can fluently speak MANY languages, and has great business sense as well. Queen of crypto, etc. Very impressed at how much she accomplishes.
I've just - like today - received a Pixel 7a, uploaded Graphene OS with the help of David Bombal's install video. I'd saved this one to figure out how the next steps. Now onto apps. Thank you so much for your content!
Very informative video. As someone who HATES Google products, I find it extremely ironic that only Pixel phones can use Graphene OS. I guess I'll just wait until Graphene is large enough to manufacture their own devices before I make the switch.
Other than the privacy settings I usually use on Graphene (such as turning off permissions for microphone and camera when I'm not using them), I put a webcam cover on the 2 cameras on my pixel device, just to be sure.
This comment has been shadow bannes. Unfortunately Graphene OS on Google phone is not the answer. The micro chips on these phones are already compromised and pretty much every phone that has been produced since the 2000s ish. The spy software is hardwired in. Check for yourselves. You need an old phone pre 90,s They are not compromised and so much very harder to track and hack. The question is security versus convenience. Do you need Uber or TH-cam on your phone. Even the older phones are being compromised by the SIM card which carries this hardwired spy software. Again don't take my word go and check down that rabbit hole for yourselves. My answer I don't carry a phone out. If I need too Nokia 3010 in RFID bag. Why I keep hands free and my gaze up looking up and out for threats and cameras to avoid. Best of luck everyone in 1984.
This statement I like, it reminds of the film a Few Good Men "If your orders are always followed and nobody was to touch Santigo. There should be no need to transfer Santigo off the base". Why the two orders" So if Graphene turns off the camera why the covers? Trust me when I say it is not you but the lack of trust in Goggles. Yes there is an "o" missing. Again not my phone or my account. Stay safe
I unfortunately can't afford to be making hardware purchases for something like graphene os despite acknowledging the importance of security & privacy preserving devices. I may pick up a used pixel device that is compatible with graphene os in the future to make this particular improved implementation. Good advice of course, thank you. 🙂
@@GrassKiddo123if you choose to install graphene on a pixel phone, the phone will have the following setup: - Google Hardware - Google Firmware - GrapheneOS as OS This is actually quite safe, since the hardware itself doesn't report anything to Google, and the firmware's sole purpose is to make sure that the hardware can interact with the OS. If your phone has some Google hardware or code, that doesn't mean that Google can track you. All the tracking and data collection is done by the OS, and the setting established there. In fact, I'd argue that the code that Google writes is really stable and efficient. With GrapheneOS, you can get the best of both worlds. Google's great code stability, but without the tracking and data mining. Please actually read through relevant information before posting baseless panic comments.
My God Naomi ,you are 1 of the smartest person that I can recommend to my friends when it comes to most of the technology out there . May God bless you and your family and friends for sharing your knowledge with us to protect us from evil .😊
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the video Louis Rossman did about the difficulties and encountered with Graphene OS’ developer. Wether the video was biased or not, it still raises the question about relying so much on a single individual and whether that is actually an improvement over Google or Apple?
Hi NBTV: - Why would Google themselves allow the mods when other manufacturers might not? Doesn’t seem to make sense that Google would allow the Pixels to be modded in a way that defeats their purpose of collecting user info? Is it possible that on a hardware level, info is collected and sent anyway regardless? - Who is “GrapheneOS” and does it being open source allow malicious actors to alter the software? What if any are the mechanisms in place to prevent this? - Are there any issues with buying a used Pixel that may have been running stock Android and then now Graphene? Does factory resetting really wipe everything or does the fact that it’s been used means the device is already logged and tagged. Curious what’s Naomi’s view are on these since she uses it herself. As well as anyone who has chosen to use Graphene for privacy reasons. Thank you!
Yeah these are good questions. It also tickles me in the wrong way that the first step to de-google your phone is to buy a Google phone. I've been thinking about it for a little while and so far it does not sit well with me. It's amazing business-wise for Google, which wins in any case, but how could we avoid making it stronger with our money if we really want to escape it? (I know the irony of posting this on TH-cam, but it's all a process, and it's better to start thinking about it late than never).
I will attempt to answer: - Why would Google themselves allow the mods when other manufacturers might not? Doesn’t seem to make sense that Google would allow the Pixels to be modded in a way that defeats their purpose of collecting user info? Is it possible that on a hardware level, info is collected and sent anyway regardless? -> Google owns android. Google still makes money selling your the hardware. From the BILLIONS of android phones world wide a few thousand run graphene. They don't care. -> Helps with android development which benefits google. - Who is “GrapheneOS” and does it being open source allow malicious actors to alter the software? What if any are the mechanisms in place to prevent this? Something being open source doesn't make it 100% proof from hijacking, BUT the more people look at the code, the lower the chance is that nasty stuff gets sneaked in. example: the xz Linux exploit got patched before the malicious actor was able to do damage, because a Dev found it before it got used. - Are there any issues with buying a used Pixel that may have been running stock Android and then now Graphene? Does factory resetting really wipe everything or does the fact that it’s been used means the device is already logged and tagged. -> Reinstalling the OS nukes all encryption keys in the TITAN M, making data unreadable, as the keys are gone. -> just make sure the device isnt carrier locked. I was lucky, i got my Pixel 6 refurbished and was able to install grapheneOS I use graphene and i like the control and minimalism. I just have the apps i really NEED and nothing else. been enjoying it. 10/10 would recommend if you don't need to do anything like banking.
What is missing from the video is a clear statement to not use biometric authentication to login to your phone. Maybe a followup video diving deeper into why would be great! Also, using a specific DNS server over a VPN doesn't actually degrade your anonymity, since the DNS requests should be routed via the VPN using DOH.
Thank you Naomi, will your future video explain how international users will be able to use VoIP or similar services and burner sims. Us Aussies are scratching our heads, it's the last piece of the puzzle! Great video very informative
Using Pixel means trusting Google hardware. I have no reason to trust Google to not put backdoors at the hardware level and so I cannot believe I am increasing my privacy by switching to a Pixel phone.
Graphene OS appears to be a legit privacy and security solution. That software on free hardware, like a future fairphone with enhanced security chips, would be a dream.
The problem for me is that GrapheneOS is only available on Pixel which is a Google made phone and Im afraid they have hardware that is intrusive or back-door capable. Not to mention im giving money to Google when buying their physical phone and continue funding their enterprise. I have installed LineageOS, it's not the best functionality but ok, still need to make Banking/payment apps work though.
Naomi, thank you so very much for the insightful and educational content. I recently became a victim of identity theft and this event is causing my wife and I to really look at security on all levels. I appreciate the content of this video and your clear recommendations. I am legally blind and I have used Apple devices for years because of the built in accessibility, screen readers and magnification. I know google devices have similar capabilities as well. Are there accessibility options within GraphineOS? I assume the platform allows for alternate apps stores, however, is there a way to take advantage of some of the Google options for accessibility through side loading?
Another great video by Naomi, but doesnt seem to address the issue of eSim built into later Pixel phones , including the 7 and 8 series models. Does graphine remove this or disable it?
I recommend doing more research before switching your phone based on this video. Android and iOS are not the same, as suggested in the beginning. Keep in mind Google/Android makes money from data, while apple makes money from hardware. You can choose for each app if they get access to camera, microphone whatever. Android and iPhone both have small sign to show whether the cam/mic is currently used but there are workarounds known for Android (e.g. in Lockscreen) where the sign is disabled. In iPhone it is impossible, so you will always know whether the cam is recording or not. Also take 1 min to google meta stock chart and you will notice a huge drop late january 2022. That was due to an iOS update, which prevents meta (and any other websites) from collecting data from iPhones. Meaning since then they can collect only Androids data, which means less profit, which means stock crash. Pixel + Graphene might be slightly better than iOS but they are pretty close. Just make sure not to run Android OS and you are fine.
In the era of global surveillance, to change the os is not enough. I am sure all phone calls are recorded and voice to text processed, then analyzed in our form of democracy
Greetings Naomi! What AOSP Alternative OS would work on a Samsung Galaxy A205 U that doesn't have OEM Unlock in the Developers' Options. It has Android 10 with Security Patch Level 2/1/23. The UI is 2.0. Thank you for teaching us. I need to understand the Developers' Options showing up in Settings. Stay Awesome! 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼❤️💐
Phone makers are trying to build in the SIM card into the hardware. And when you go to buy airtime or SIM, they have your face on a picture when you walk into the store.
Hello there and thank you Naomi for the very clean ans simple way you present concepts for us. A pixel 7 user here. I bought this one for graphene... For my needs, i use android auto, google wallet and filter calls, keep in mind if you use graphene the 3 will be not available and there is no way to bring back these features (not 100% sure about filter calls with google). That is why i came back to stock... You are warned 😅
Thank you for the really in-depth coverage! You went above and beyond explaining prerequisites, esp the OEM Unlock concern with carrier phones. That's crazy! I've been thinking about installing Graphene. The only thing I think I would really miss on my Pixel is the excellent spam call filtering and ability to have the assistant 'answer' suspicious calls for me. The security concious part of me really wants to install anyway though.
This comment has been shadow banned. Unfortunately Graphene OS on Google phone is not the answer. The micro chips on these phones are already compromised and pretty much every phone that has been produced since the 2000s ish. The spy software is hardwired in. Check for yourselves. You need an old phone pre 90,s They are not compromised and so much very harder to track and hack. The question is security versus convenience. Do you need Uber or TH-cam on your phone. Even the older phones are being compromised by the SIM card which carries this hardwired spy software. Again don't take my word go and check down that rabbit hole for yourselves. My answer I don't carry a phone out. If I need too Nokia 3010 in RFID bag. Why I keep hands free and my gaze up looking up and out for threats and cameras to avoid. Best of luck everyone in 1984.
@@RECONGHILLE13 Unfortunately, older phones use carrier technology and frequencies that are no longer in use or are compromised. Note the HUGE drive towards 5G, where beam forming technology narrows your location info to inches, not meters.
Thank you, Naomi. Waiting for Pixel prices to drop a bit in Australia so I can upgrade my S10. They're a bit dear atm. It's a pity the Pixel 8 doesn't have some of the 8 pro features as phone size is a big factor for me. I'd LOVE to hear how you connect without sim card - do you use wireless or portable router with data sim only? I'd expect you use Signal messenger? It's not that secure...read about Tucker's proposed visit to Russia and how they found out about it... Isn't good old Session( Aussie messenger app) a better choice?
Session does not have perfect forward secrecy, signal does. Signal has not been compromised. A messaging app is only as secure as the device its on, and there are plenty of ways to target someone's device if they're high profile.
Since July 1, 2017, in Germany you have to show your ID card when activating prepaid SIM cards. To get around this, simply activate a SIM card in another EU country and simply use it with roming
Lets hope you get this message Naomi. Please do a deep dive on this for countries where the Pixel is not availble...think South Africa,😉we dont get that one here. My phone will not ALLOW me to delete fakebook, google, playstore, etc....
Great Vid. Can you recommend a place where we can find country specific advice on whether or not phones shipped to that country are OEM unlockable? In Australia I am getting a lot of mixed messages from retailers (who in many cases do not understand the question) some of whom think it 'may' be possible, but you need to apply to Google first (??) and in any case, if it does not work they will not give a refund due to an Australian law of some kind. Not inspiring nor confidence building. It is clear that neither Google nor retailers in places like Australia want punters to do this. So, is there a handy country-by-country guide we can refer to? Many thanks!
Hi Naomi! Really great video! Question - I'm currently using a normal phone and have a plan with Verizon. If I were to purchase a new unlocked Pixel 8 and then install GrapheneOS on it, could I still stay with my existing cell provider or would that defeat the purpose of having a de-googled phone?
Great question. You can put your existing SIM into your new device. A cell provider doesn't defeat the purpose of using a graphene phone. There are things you can do to mitigate the location tracking of the cell network, and that video is coming out in a couple of weeks.
@@NaomiBrockwellTV Okay awesome! Thanks! Also, just wanted to say that your channel is amazing - I'm a new subscriber. You do a fantastic job of explaining things. I've learned a ton in the last few weeks. Currently reading through your book and it's extremely helpful!
So if you're not using a SIM card, are you using some sort of VOIP solution? Would it be self hosted VOIP? Something that can handle both calls and SMS messages? I'm looking for a solution myself, and i'm a techie so I don't mind self hosting, but I'm not familiar enough with Telephony platforms that can replace everything a SIM card could do. Also, many of my friends and family are regular users and asking them to adopt is an even bigger hassle, getting them to move to Signal just to talk to me was alienating enough, so how do I keep myself private while communicating with them using the channels they don't want to use?
You recommend a Google pixel 8 w/the graphene os. You also suggested no sim card. Do you use Google Fi? Is this possible or recommended with the graphene?
Does the polaroid screen protector not mess with the fingerprint sensor? Isn't the PIN code scrambler decently enough to keep people who peek from a distance guessing enough?
Good practical questions. Most people will find this impractical due to time involved. Most people's lives are not that secret, you can generally tell what their lives are like based on general information about them. Not sure the juice is worth the squeeze for most people. This will continue to be a niche solution for most people. Heck, it's impossible to get people to stop using social media and posting selfies / videos to garbage like Facebook or tiktok or Twitter. This is an impractical pipe dream. And the bit about buying a Pixel from a local store with cash....😂😂😂
I turn off app auto update, and that's been a good thing, as some apps moved to an ad supported model, or add new "features" without our knowledge, etc. My phone is 8+ years old now, with some old (but functional) apps still working. The question I have is if I get a new phone, how can I transfer those old apps over, rather than get the newer apps applied? Some developers give up work on supporting them, and others buy up the code and maliciously modify it for tracking/infection/bot purposes.
Having programmed many years, I can tell you the operating system can not completely control the hardware function. Code within the hardware can be triggered to execute from a multitude of conditions unknownable to the OS. Whoever built the hardware, controls the device level microcodes and conditions that can cause their execution. Trusting the underlying Google device level microcode? Not so much...
Naomi what are your thoughts regarding trusting Google as a manufacturer given that as per your No SIM! No problem video we have no idea what is happening at the baseband processor level? I ask this as I am interested in swapping to Graphene but have a deep distrust of google.
I forget on which yt video a phone can be purchased with Graphene OS on it, can it be ordered from the company directly? Thanks for your assistance and reply.
The tricky thing for me though is you've switched to an alternative OS you really don't have proven security. Yes the privacy issue is fixed, but not sold on it being more hardened. You only know security works by weathering attacks.
Funnily enough, you can get "for parts" Pixels for dirt cheap where just the glass front/back are shattered. Replace and voila, new platform to play with.
My main concern with using a pixel phone is the camera ai. To do all the things they advertise, it would have to have access to stored photo data, which would include multiple images of the same faces as well as location and other exif data. Can the camera ai be disabled or removed when using Graphene OS?
The graphene OS is stripped of all the Google applications as well as play services so it has its own camera and processing functionality. If you choose that you do want to use any of the Google functionality you would put the Google Play services on the device in what's called a sandbox if you choose to and you could use those services again if you choose, but with graphene they give you the option to have more control over the Google apps where on stock OS some permissions are embedded and required for functionality purposes according to them but the apps can strangely work on graphene with those permissions denied if that makes any sense
Naomi your work is precious. Simple congratulations aren’t enough, you deserve more. I have 2 questions related. I’m moving to GrapheneOs but I need to use Google Chat, because of my job. Is there a way to prevent all the trackings? Also.is it “dangerous” to use a secondary Gmail accounts via IMAP on an app like K9 mail? Can you be tracked by Google? Lastly, an idea for further video, if I may. What’s the best way to go for a privacy oriented smart watch to partner with your Grapheneos phone? Thanks!
Working on a video about smart watches now! Any google product will track you, but if you put on a secondary profile on graphene it will stop anything running in the background
Privacy issue: I can read your mind! haha, joking. I thought about a secondary profile, but the problem is, will I get notifications from Google Chat installed on another running profile, in my main profile? Switching profiles to check for notification, may be very inconvenient? That’s the mystery :) @@NaomiBrockwellTV
How does memory tagging differ from DEP? ChatGPT says DEP and memory tagging serve different purposes in enhancing system security. DEP focuses on preventing the execution of code in certain memory regions, while memory tagging aims to detect and prevent memory corruption vulnerabilities by adding additional metadata to memory allocations.
The problem/irony/inconvenience being it only works with the flagship phones of the very corporation you are most likely seeking to thwart. A bit of a problem for multiple reasons.
For the amount of effort required, I can't bring myself to avoid Google by purchasing a Google hardware product, and relying on Google for ongoing hardware driver updates (closed-source, binary blobs). Sure, I may have replaced the OS from Andorid to GrapheneOS, but underneath it all Google owns my phone. Totally perplexing why GrapheneOS only supports Google Pixel devices. [edit: you make great videos, but I'm not comfortable with this approach. I could try CalixOS with a Moto G32, but then Motorola (Lenovo) handles closed-source driver updates. Perhaps, I'm being a perfectionist expecting a complete solution. Just like any Linux PC and closed source hardware, it's much better than Windows even though it's incomplete.]
A great GrapheneOS "next steps" guide:
github.com/Scrut1ny/GrapheneOS-Guide
Chapter headings:
00:00 Intro
01:19 Overview
01:52 Purchasing the Phone
02:10 Pixel Hardware Benefits
04:33 Warning about Carrier Contracts
06:32 Cell service
07:09 Mobile Accessories
07:46 Settings Tutorial
16:26 Out of the Box Benefits
18:03 Other NBTV Resources
18:32 Conclusion
Rob Braxman The Internet Privacy Guy also covers this as well as selling De-Googled phones through his company in the US.
Hi Naomi, the PDF doesn't really cover how to get service outside the US. For example, I tried buying a sim card in Italy, and every store needed my passport. When I asked a friend, he stated that their government requires everyone to register to a carrier with identification. It was definitely difficult and I feel like, in either a video or an addendum to the PDF, that should be covered (when it's difficult to find service where laws are strict).
FYI I love the colour of this dress, as well as the bird-wings-esque buckle thing which I just learned is called a sash belt!
Hello Naomi, are their other alternatives than Google Pixel 6 and onward?
What you said wasnt true though due to the bad faith law in Michigan. Google aint your friend either because they know other buisnesses like insurances, governors, and other buisnesess like the black market and dark web. Everyone is a witness. They do not protect your phone number at all since they all know it. Thats why we still have a scam scanner on our phones. I knew something was sus. Google cannot be trusted either. ☦
My goal for 2024 will be to change my phone to a Google Pixel 7 or 8 and install GrapheneOS. I hope it will work because the phone is not cheap in my country. But it will be an investment for several years. Great video Naomi :) Greetings from Poland :)
Although I have the 7 pro and its awesome, I'd recommend you get the 8 bc of the security updates it will get :D
@@onewa712the security updates won’t matter if he’s downloading grapheneOS. Because the security updates that the pixel 8 is getting for awhile is for normal pixel 8s not grapheneOS. Graphene OS gets its own security updates quite frequently actually, indefinitely.
@@xxXKogasaWe3dL0rd420Xxx GrapheneOS does not support phones indefinitely, so the support period for the phone itself from Google does matter.
Really easy to install just use USB install on their page 😊
Correct you'll update grapheenos not Google updates. What the team on Grapheenos will do is take Google's update and make a custom update from it. This way you'll get the new features and security update but from them.
The value of this content creator is more than TH-cam deserves to have on its platform.
Own a Pixel 6a and installed Graphene about a year ago. Thanks for even more tips for my privacy and security. Kudos to your channel.
This comment got shadow banned. Unfortunately Graphene OS on Google phone is not the answer. The micro chips on these phones are already compromised and pretty much every phone that has been produced since the 2000s ish. The spy software is hardwired in. Check for yourselves. You need an old phone pre 90,s They are not compromised and so much very harder to track and hack. The question is security versus convenience. Do you need Uber or TH-cam on your phone. Even the older phones are being compromised by the SIM card which carries this hardwired spy software. Again don't take my word go and check down that rabbit hole for yourselves. My answer I don't carry a phone out. If I need too Nokia 3010 in RFID bag. Why I keep hands free and my gaze up looking up and out for threats and cameras to avoid. Best of luck everyone in 1984.
@@RECONGHILLE13 yo yo bro chill
@@RECONGHILLE13Your right That's why the big deal with Huawei phones. Chinese hardwired chips differently than ours. Difference was the data went to China instead.
@@RECONGHILLE13 lmao you must be trolling.
The older phones dont support the newer standards.
in some places 2/3g is being pahsed out.
good luck with your 90s phone xD
@@AIC_onyt thank you
I need a privacy 101 video of the first steps to take. This is so overwhelming but I know it’s necessary.
I know but if your open to learning and ta it king one stpe at a time its so rewarding, I did the jump from Iphone and i havent looked back since....thats years of Iphone use by the way!
I gave up having a smartphone years ago. I now use a flip phone that doesn't run Android, and I rarely carry it with me when I leave the house. What a feeling it is to know I'm not tethered to the surveillance state when I walk out the door.
But you're going out to a world full of tracking devices
If you drive a modern car, it is watching you. Speed cameras are no longer just cameras. They too are sending information gleaned from your vehicle as it goes by. Kudos for making it harder for big brother but I think we are passed the age of privacy. ☮
@@Bdamazyn LOOK! There's a car that went by WITHOUT a tracking device! Keep tabs on it!
We've lost this privacy war. It's gotten to the point where you can be tracked by the info you're NOT sending. Changes in one's behavior has been used by law enforcement many times to circumvent the encryption used on these phones.
but now that you posted that info here... ;-)
Naomi. Once again you and your team have done an outstanding job educating me and the public. I can't wait to start using a de-googled phone.
In your video you talked about not using a Sim card. I didn't know that was possible. Please do a video on not using a Sim card. Thank for all you guys do.❤
This comment has been shadow bannes. Unfortunately Graphene OS on Google phone is not the answer. The micro chips on these phones are already compromised and pretty much every phone that has been produced since the 2000s ish. The spy software is hardwired in. Check for yourselves. You need an old phone pre 90,s They are not compromised and so much very harder to track and hack. The question is security versus convenience. Do you need Uber or TH-cam on your phone. Even the older phones are being compromised by the SIM card which carries this hardwired spy software. Again don't take my word go and check down that rabbit hole for yourselves. My answer I don't carry a phone out. If I need too Nokia 3010 in RFID bag. Why I keep hands free and my gaze up looking up and out for threats and cameras to avoid. Best of luck everyone in 1984.
@@RECONGHILLE13 Right on point. No software will help when hardware is compromised. It can only slightly limit data collection but even that is pointless since in that case blocked data is actually not important.
This wasnt true though. Google was sued for privacy issues. Why trust them? Research the bad faith law in Michigan. I trust no one of these buisnesses even cops. They are in cohoots with our overlords and other crime rings. ☦
@@RECONGHILLE13 Yes! Please research the bad faith law in Michigan. We caught Whitmer and other overlords doing black market and doing dark web stuff. The truth is slipping out! ☦
@@RECONGHILLE13 I believe you're only getting banned because you're spamming the comment section with the same comment... You can add a comment to the video normally. Replying to every popular comment is something that bots tend to do...
I bought the Pixel 6a and did Graphene OS was easy. But makes everything locked down in a serious way!
I've gone back to land line only & life is so much nicer now..........
I shut my phone OFF as soon as i get ready to leave the house! I am not available to anyone unless i am home and feel like answering! Its like having an answering machine again & i LOVE IT!! I run the cell phone on Lockdown mode--most functionality is not available& its not compromised. Love it.
I'm proud of you, I won't own a nasty toxic cell phone again, though landlines are VoIP now, I wonder how private they actually are.
I like the idea I heard (I believe from Mr. Snowden) of putting a hardware disconnect switch on the microphone to ensure that you aren't being listened to by spyware, commercial or state. It strikes me that, even with great guides, and Naomi's wonderful explanations, this kind of privacy is out of the reach of a number people, such as older, or less tech savvy individuals. Someone could resell the pixels with graphene already set up. But they'd have to be trustworthy. Maybe NBTV can resell them.
Buy a Rob Braxman de-googled phone
Or just Google de-googled phones
I guess you didn't know that Google constantly takes video and still pictures also. It also takes your gps coordinates, along with other things.
Just a lil fix he disconnects all the microphones and csmeras at the source wgile not using. I dunno about usong some other programs he prob does but im pretty sure if thy can listen in on a phone without a battery or sim card thy can prob activate a disconect switch
@@SirenaSpades Yes. GPS, audio, video, biometrics...IMSI, IMEI, MAC id... Your IP is shown in Google email.
So your identity is tied to these identifiers.
Having a de-Googled phone means replacing the original operating system by flashing a custom ROM.
This is an open source Linux based OS like Graphene, Calyx, or Lineage.
Linux has 40 + FOSS (free & open source)
Which means developers can inspect the code for malware.
So - the point is that if you never sign in to the phone, tablet, computer...
The data you generate is not tied to You.
The data is meaningless.
Just random.
Nothing being collected, to create a profile to be used by any group with bad intent.
Nothing to be sent propaganda or to be used for fake news.
If you're talking to someone and it's not over the device itself you can just keep the phone in a pouch (or even a pocket) and it really won't hear anything significant. The only time this wouldn't work is if you were talking to someone _while_ using the device for something else.
There is no mobile phone signal where I live, so that should be pretty good for privacy, I think. 🙂 Love these videos with their mid-century modern styling!
So you think. I just completed a trip to Alaska. We had no cell coverage for calling or texting, but somehow other things on our phones were updated in real time. Mmm...
@@diann546 Oooooerrr: that's spooky! 🙂
@@diann546sounds like a faraday cage is in the workings. Go on the dark web and I'm sure you will find methods to hide your identity I seen some of those modified cell phones. 73
Property that does not get a signal is sought after by those with autism & by those that are disabled cancer survivors from EMF radiation. Are you in a rural area wooded area in a valley? I'm in a wifi deadzone also, though ever so often when it is a light rain there are certain spots that get signals, I love that it is a wifi deadzone but I am surrounded by narcissists & criminals in the community I live in, I'd like to move to another wifi deadzone in a better area. It is so wrong that FCC is allowed to violate the American Disabilities Act by broadcasting harmful radiation everywhere they can.
@@invisableobserver Terrain blocks all signals here. There is also no TV.
Naomi. Thank you! Finally a video (perhaps a whole channel? it's the first video I have watched from you) with usefull, professional and not un-important infos, which is entertaining at the same time. Thank you so much and greetings from Germany. P.S. Installing Graphene OS on my Pixel was one of the easiest things I have ever done with an android device. It basically did everything itself. Finding the privacy settings in the Facebook app is 10 times more difficult than setting up Graphene OS!!! ;)
Hey Naomi, I just wanted to reach out and let you know how much I appreciate your informative and helpful videos. Your content is truly valuable and surpasses anything I've come across. Thanks to your incredible videos, I've managed to escape the rabbit hole and prioritize my digital privacy like never before. I must confess, I'm completely captivated by your intelligence. Thank you for everything you do to empower us in this digital age and help us stay secure 💕
if you do a cursory look around for info about her, she's INCREDIBLY brilliant! Can fluently speak MANY languages, and has great business sense as well. Queen of crypto, etc. Very impressed at how much she accomplishes.
I've just - like today - received a Pixel 7a, uploaded Graphene OS with the help of David Bombal's install video. I'd saved this one to figure out how the next steps. Now onto apps.
Thank you so much for your content!
Very informative video. As someone who HATES Google products, I find it extremely ironic that only Pixel phones can use Graphene OS. I guess I'll just wait until Graphene is large enough to manufacture their own devices before I make the switch.
Buy a used one. Then googles gets none of your money. Problem solved
Other than the privacy settings I usually use on Graphene (such as turning off permissions for microphone and camera when I'm not using them), I put a webcam cover on the 2 cameras on my pixel device, just to be sure.
Yes! I've got a Nilkin Privacy phone case. It's awesome.
This comment has been shadow bannes. Unfortunately Graphene OS on Google phone is not the answer. The micro chips on these phones are already compromised and pretty much every phone that has been produced since the 2000s ish. The spy software is hardwired in. Check for yourselves. You need an old phone pre 90,s They are not compromised and so much very harder to track and hack. The question is security versus convenience. Do you need Uber or TH-cam on your phone. Even the older phones are being compromised by the SIM card which carries this hardwired spy software. Again don't take my word go and check down that rabbit hole for yourselves. My answer I don't carry a phone out. If I need too Nokia 3010 in RFID bag. Why I keep hands free and my gaze up looking up and out for threats and cameras to avoid. Best of luck everyone in 1984.
@@RECONGHILLE13i feel bad for you. I'm mildly paranoid but you sound terrified
Um... Graphene OS by... wait for it........ spoiler alert!!! Google!! on a Google phone.
Who actually believes this IMPROVES privacy? Really... WHO?
This statement I like, it reminds of the film a Few Good Men "If your orders are always followed and nobody was to touch Santigo. There should be no need to transfer Santigo off the base". Why the two orders" So if Graphene turns off the camera why the covers? Trust me when I say it is not you but the lack of trust in Goggles. Yes there is an "o" missing. Again not my phone or my account. Stay safe
I unfortunately can't afford to be making hardware purchases for something like graphene os despite acknowledging the importance of security & privacy preserving devices.
I may pick up a used pixel device that is compatible with graphene os in the future to make this particular improved implementation.
Good advice of course, thank you. 🙂
Rob Braxman sells degoogled phones. He's on yt.
LineageOS
U know what's so ironic that custom OS is barely gonna do anything BECAUSE ITS A GOOGLE PIXEL THE SOFTWARES NOT THE ONLY GOOGLE THING ON THAT PHONE
Naomi, what do you think about the de-Googled phones from Rob Braxman?
@@GrassKiddo123if you choose to install graphene on a pixel phone, the phone will have the following setup:
- Google Hardware
- Google Firmware
- GrapheneOS as OS
This is actually quite safe, since the hardware itself doesn't report anything to Google, and the firmware's sole purpose is to make sure that the hardware can interact with the OS.
If your phone has some Google hardware or code, that doesn't mean that Google can track you. All the tracking and data collection is done by the OS, and the setting established there. In fact, I'd argue that the code that Google writes is really stable and efficient.
With GrapheneOS, you can get the best of both worlds. Google's great code stability, but without the tracking and data mining.
Please actually read through relevant information before posting baseless panic comments.
My God Naomi ,you are 1 of the smartest person that I can recommend to my friends when it comes to most of the technology out there .
May God bless you and your family and friends for sharing your knowledge with us to protect us from evil .😊
This is the clearest and extensive list explanation about graphene OS.
Thank you for that.
Thank you for sharing great information. As always great video. I really enjoy listening your accent.
Right!? "U-sing" 😅 11:47
Because of Your Channel I m using Grapheneos Thank You 🙏
You have a Pixel?
@@sl4983 Yes
This is my favorite channel for privacy content. Thank you so much for your videos 💛
Thanks for the tips. I really like your approach with making difinitive recommendations to people and making concepts easy to understand.
Excellent video, concise, focused, informative with good delivery. Thank you!
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the video Louis Rossman did about the difficulties and encountered with Graphene OS’ developer. Wether the video was biased or not, it still raises the question about relying so much on a single individual and whether that is actually an improvement over Google or Apple?
Hi NBTV:
- Why would Google themselves allow the mods when other manufacturers might not? Doesn’t seem to make sense that Google would allow the Pixels to be modded in a way that defeats their purpose of collecting user info? Is it possible that on a hardware level, info is collected and sent anyway regardless?
- Who is “GrapheneOS” and does it being open source allow malicious actors to alter the software? What if any are the mechanisms in place to prevent this?
- Are there any issues with buying a used Pixel that may have been running stock Android and then now Graphene? Does factory resetting really wipe everything or does the fact that it’s been used means the device is already logged and tagged.
Curious what’s Naomi’s view are on these since she uses it herself. As well as anyone who has chosen to use Graphene for privacy reasons. Thank you!
Yeah these are good questions.
It also tickles me in the wrong way that the first step to de-google your phone is to buy a Google phone. I've been thinking about it for a little while and so far it does not sit well with me.
It's amazing business-wise for Google, which wins in any case, but how could we avoid making it stronger with our money if we really want to escape it?
(I know the irony of posting this on TH-cam, but it's all a process, and it's better to start thinking about it late than never).
I will attempt to answer:
- Why would Google themselves allow the mods when other manufacturers might not? Doesn’t seem to make sense that Google would allow the Pixels to be modded in a way that defeats their purpose of collecting user info? Is it possible that on a hardware level, info is collected and sent anyway regardless?
-> Google owns android. Google still makes money selling your the hardware. From the BILLIONS of android phones world wide a few thousand run graphene. They don't care.
-> Helps with android development which benefits google.
- Who is “GrapheneOS” and does it being open source allow malicious actors to alter the software? What if any are the mechanisms in place to prevent this?
Something being open source doesn't make it 100% proof from hijacking, BUT the more people look at the code, the lower the chance is that nasty stuff gets sneaked in.
example: the xz Linux exploit got patched before the malicious actor was able to do damage, because a Dev found it before it got used.
- Are there any issues with buying a used Pixel that may have been running stock Android and then now Graphene? Does factory resetting really wipe everything or does the fact that it’s been used means the device is already logged and tagged.
-> Reinstalling the OS nukes all encryption keys in the TITAN M, making data unreadable, as the keys are gone.
-> just make sure the device isnt carrier locked. I was lucky, i got my Pixel 6 refurbished and was able to install grapheneOS
I use graphene and i like the control and minimalism. I just have the apps i really NEED and nothing else. been enjoying it.
10/10 would recommend if you don't need to do anything like banking.
Look where we've slipped to. The title of this video isn't "make your phone private" it's "make your phone MORE private."
What is missing from the video is a clear statement to not use biometric authentication to login to your phone. Maybe a followup video diving deeper into why would be great! Also, using a specific DNS server over a VPN doesn't actually degrade your anonymity, since the DNS requests should be routed via the VPN using DOH.
The criminals in blue are now legally authorized to use your biometric data to unlock your phone, by force, in the US.
Excellent Naomi, thanks!
Thank you Naomi, will your future video explain how international users will be able to use VoIP or similar services and burner sims. Us Aussies are scratching our heads, it's the last piece of the puzzle! Great video very informative
I love how you say "un-enable".
Have been watching your videos for 2-3 years and you're just amazing. Great insights and solid presentation
Using Pixel means trusting Google hardware. I have no reason to trust Google to not put backdoors at the hardware level and so I cannot believe I am increasing my privacy by switching to a Pixel phone.
Was looking for a comment like this
There is a way to de-google a google hardware phone safely and securely.
This was an excellent video and great explanations.
ok ok I appreciate your candor, honesty and altruism. I'm subscribed.....thank you.
Graphene OS appears to be a legit privacy and security solution. That software on free hardware, like a future fairphone with enhanced security chips, would be a dream.
Some great practical advice. I've been hoping !
👍
The problem for me is that GrapheneOS is only available on Pixel which is a Google made phone and Im afraid they have hardware that is intrusive or back-door capable. Not to mention im giving money to Google when buying their physical phone and continue funding their enterprise. I have installed LineageOS, it's not the best functionality but ok, still need to make Banking/payment apps work though.
The contradictions on this comment is comedy
@@JM-wd3dk name a few?
What a wonderful video! Those infos were very helpful!👍🏻
You rock! Thanks for all you do!
Wow !! Great post Naomi ! A wealth of information here. 💛
Just ran into your video today. Interestingly I'm shopping around for a new phone. Might now consider a Pixel with GrapheneOS.
Graphene OS is sooooo good!!
Unlocked and with cash all the way baby!
Doing gods work here! Thanks for sharing this video with the world!
I love you dress you looks always amazing wearing those greats dresses too!
Naomi, thank you so very much for the insightful and educational content. I recently became a victim of identity theft and this event is causing my wife and I to really look at security on all levels. I appreciate the content of this video and your clear recommendations. I am legally blind and I have used Apple devices for years because of the built in accessibility, screen readers and magnification. I know google devices have similar capabilities as well. Are there accessibility options within GraphineOS? I assume the platform allows for alternate apps stores, however, is there a way to take advantage of some of the Google options for accessibility through side loading?
Another great video by Naomi, but doesnt seem to address the issue of eSim built into later Pixel phones , including the 7 and 8 series models. Does graphine remove this or disable it?
I recommend doing more research before switching your phone based on this video. Android and iOS are not the same, as suggested in the beginning. Keep in mind Google/Android makes money from data, while apple makes money from hardware. You can choose for each app if they get access to camera, microphone whatever. Android and iPhone both have small sign to show whether the cam/mic is currently used but there are workarounds known for Android (e.g. in Lockscreen) where the sign is disabled. In iPhone it is impossible, so you will always know whether the cam is recording or not. Also take 1 min to google meta stock chart and you will notice a huge drop late january 2022. That was due to an iOS update, which prevents meta (and any other websites) from collecting data from iPhones. Meaning since then they can collect only Androids data, which means less profit, which means stock crash.
Pixel + Graphene might be slightly better than iOS but they are pretty close. Just make sure not to run Android OS and you are fine.
What stores sell pixels that are OEM unlocked for cash?
So grapheneOS is only for Google Pixels? Any opinion about Alcarel Revvl?
It scares me that we are completely dependent on google(of all) to have this.
What if you don't have a Google Pixel phone? Any OS suggested as still reliable? Or not, due to the lacking features.
Ma,am, have you done a video on the most secure File Manager app for Android?
I use the native file manager in graphene
In the era of global surveillance, to change the os is not enough. I am sure all phone calls are recorded and voice to text processed, then analyzed in our form of democracy
Greetings Naomi! What AOSP Alternative OS would work on a Samsung Galaxy A205 U that doesn't have OEM Unlock in the Developers' Options. It has Android 10 with Security Patch Level 2/1/23. The UI is 2.0. Thank you for teaching us. I need to understand the Developers' Options showing up in Settings. Stay Awesome! 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼❤️💐
Phone makers are trying to build in the SIM card into the hardware.
And when you go to buy airtime or SIM, they have your face on a picture when you walk into the store.
Naomi is amazing in blue 😢
Hello there and thank you Naomi for the very clean ans simple way you present concepts for us. A pixel 7 user here. I bought this one for graphene... For my needs, i use android auto, google wallet and filter calls, keep in mind if you use graphene the 3 will be not available and there is no way to bring back these features (not 100% sure about filter calls with google). That is why i came back to stock... You are warned 😅
Why would we need warned? We are trying to degoogle. Those are google products.
android auto is supposed to be working on graphene tho
LET'S GO, NEW NAOMI VIDEO
Im second! 🎉🎉🎉
Thank you for the really in-depth coverage! You went above and beyond explaining prerequisites, esp the OEM Unlock concern with carrier phones. That's crazy!
I've been thinking about installing Graphene. The only thing I think I would really miss on my Pixel is the excellent spam call filtering and ability to have the assistant 'answer' suspicious calls for me. The security concious part of me really wants to install anyway though.
Piss All sucks
Spam blocker I suggest ''yet another call blocker'' from f-droid, very efficient
This comment has been shadow banned. Unfortunately Graphene OS on Google phone is not the answer. The micro chips on these phones are already compromised and pretty much every phone that has been produced since the 2000s ish. The spy software is hardwired in. Check for yourselves. You need an old phone pre 90,s They are not compromised and so much very harder to track and hack. The question is security versus convenience. Do you need Uber or TH-cam on your phone. Even the older phones are being compromised by the SIM card which carries this hardwired spy software. Again don't take my word go and check down that rabbit hole for yourselves. My answer I don't carry a phone out. If I need too Nokia 3010 in RFID bag. Why I keep hands free and my gaze up looking up and out for threats and cameras to avoid. Best of luck everyone in 1984.
@@RECONGHILLE13 Unfortunately, older phones use carrier technology and frequencies that are no longer in use or are compromised. Note the HUGE drive towards 5G, where beam forming technology narrows your location info to inches, not meters.
Thank you, Naomi. Waiting for Pixel prices to drop a bit in Australia so I can upgrade my S10. They're a bit dear atm.
It's a pity the Pixel 8 doesn't have some of the 8 pro features as phone size is a big factor for me.
I'd LOVE to hear how you connect without sim card - do you use wireless or portable router with data sim only? I'd expect you use Signal messenger? It's not that secure...read about Tucker's proposed visit to Russia and how they found out about it... Isn't good old Session( Aussie messenger app) a better choice?
Following
Session does not have perfect forward secrecy, signal does. Signal has not been compromised. A messaging app is only as secure as the device its on, and there are plenty of ways to target someone's device if they're high profile.
😔
So what do you recommend for Apple phones
Since July 1, 2017, in Germany you have to show your ID card when activating prepaid SIM cards. To get around this, simply activate a SIM card in another EU country and simply use it with roming
Lets hope you get this message Naomi. Please do a deep dive on this for countries where the Pixel is not availble...think South Africa,😉we dont get that one here. My phone will not ALLOW me to delete fakebook, google, playstore, etc....
will do!
Great Vid. Can you recommend a place where we can find country specific advice on whether or not phones shipped to that country are OEM unlockable?
In Australia I am getting a lot of mixed messages from retailers (who in many cases do not understand the question) some of whom think it 'may' be possible, but you need to apply to Google first (??) and in any case, if it does not work they will not give a refund due to an Australian law of some kind. Not inspiring nor confidence building.
It is clear that neither Google nor retailers in places like Australia want punters to do this. So, is there a handy country-by-country guide we can refer to?
Many thanks!
Alternative to the privacy screen protector: get a book-style case and just slip your finger in whenever you enter a PIN.
damn, knew i should have got a pixel
Hi Naomi! Really great video! Question - I'm currently using a normal phone and have a plan with Verizon. If I were to purchase a new unlocked Pixel 8 and then install GrapheneOS on it, could I still stay with my existing cell provider or would that defeat the purpose of having a de-googled phone?
Great question. You can put your existing SIM into your new device. A cell provider doesn't defeat the purpose of using a graphene phone. There are things you can do to mitigate the location tracking of the cell network, and that video is coming out in a couple of weeks.
@@NaomiBrockwellTV Okay awesome! Thanks! Also, just wanted to say that your channel is amazing - I'm a new subscriber. You do a fantastic job of explaining things. I've learned a ton in the last few weeks. Currently reading through your book and it's extremely helpful!
@@rocksolidhope So happy to hear that, and thanks for your support with the book!
Just found out they now have graphene os for pixel fold! Will be getting that asap
So if you're not using a SIM card, are you using some sort of VOIP solution? Would it be self hosted VOIP? Something that can handle both calls and SMS messages?
I'm looking for a solution myself, and i'm a techie so I don't mind self hosting, but I'm not familiar enough with Telephony platforms that can replace everything a SIM card could do. Also, many of my friends and family are regular users and asking them to adopt is an even bigger hassle, getting them to move to Signal just to talk to me was alienating enough, so how do I keep myself private while communicating with them using the channels they don't want to use?
Hi you, I just want you to keep sharing this, I think you are lovely 😍 for what you are sharing about this ❤❤❤❤
You recommend a Google pixel 8 w/the graphene os. You also suggested no sim card. Do you use Google Fi? Is this possible or recommended with the graphene?
Very informative! Thanks so much 👍
Does the polaroid screen protector not mess with the fingerprint sensor? Isn't the PIN code scrambler decently enough to keep people who peek from a distance guessing enough?
Good practical questions.
Most people will find this impractical due to time involved. Most people's lives are not that secret, you can generally tell what their lives are like based on general information about them. Not sure the juice is worth the squeeze for most people. This will continue to be a niche solution for most people. Heck, it's impossible to get people to stop using social media and posting selfies / videos to garbage like Facebook or tiktok or Twitter. This is an impractical pipe dream.
And the bit about buying a Pixel from a local store with cash....😂😂😂
I turn off app auto update, and that's been a good thing, as some apps moved to an ad supported model, or add new "features" without our knowledge, etc.
My phone is 8+ years old now, with some old (but functional) apps still working. The question I have is if I get a new phone, how can I transfer those old apps over, rather than get the newer apps applied? Some developers give up work on supporting them, and others buy up the code and maliciously modify it for tracking/infection/bot purposes.
Having programmed many years, I can tell you the operating system can not completely control the hardware function. Code within the hardware can be triggered to execute from a multitude of conditions unknownable to the OS. Whoever built the hardware, controls the device level microcodes and conditions that can cause their execution. Trusting the underlying Google device level microcode? Not so much...
Any thoughts on e-os for any other android phone than pixels??
I use Vivaldi and Qwant, please give to me your thoughts. Many thanks
Where is the best place to get a used Google Pixel phone? Also what do you think is the best version to get?
Wow.. great info. I’m getting a P8pro 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
great info, thank you
get a mic lock! they really work :-]
the basic structure for them is out there if you're strapped for cash and want to try to build your own.
Naomi what are your thoughts regarding trusting Google as a manufacturer given that as per your No SIM! No problem video we have no idea what is happening at the baseband processor level? I ask this as I am interested in swapping to Graphene but have a deep distrust of google.
Sadly the current Google Pixel offerings are uncomfortably huge. They are also lacking a 3.5mm earphone jack. :(
I forget on which yt video a phone can be purchased with Graphene OS on it, can it be ordered from the company directly? Thanks for your assistance and reply.
The tricky thing for me though is you've switched to an alternative OS you really don't have proven security. Yes the privacy issue is fixed, but not sold on it being more hardened. You only know security works by weathering attacks.
Im going flip phone next year, and just use my laptop for everything else.
Funnily enough, you can get "for parts" Pixels for dirt cheap where just the glass front/back are shattered. Replace and voila, new platform to play with.
My main concern with using a pixel phone is the camera ai. To do all the things they advertise, it would have to have access to stored photo data, which would include multiple images of the same faces as well as location and other exif data. Can the camera ai be disabled or removed when using Graphene OS?
The graphene OS is stripped of all the Google applications as well as play services so it has its own camera and processing functionality. If you choose that you do want to use any of the Google functionality you would put the Google Play services on the device in what's called a sandbox if you choose to and you could use those services again if you choose, but with graphene they give you the option to have more control over the Google apps where on stock OS some permissions are embedded and required for functionality purposes according to them but the apps can strangely work on graphene with those permissions denied if that makes any sense
Great video!!!! It makes me want to leave ios and use grapheneOS
Naomi your work is precious. Simple congratulations aren’t enough, you deserve more. I have 2 questions related.
I’m moving to GrapheneOs but I need to use Google Chat, because of my job. Is there a way to prevent all the trackings?
Also.is it “dangerous” to use a secondary Gmail accounts via IMAP on an app like K9 mail? Can you be tracked by Google?
Lastly, an idea for further video, if I may. What’s the best way to go for a privacy oriented smart watch to partner with your Grapheneos phone? Thanks!
Working on a video about smart watches now!
Any google product will track you, but if you put on a secondary profile on graphene it will stop anything running in the background
Privacy issue: I can read your mind! haha, joking. I thought about a secondary profile, but the problem is, will I get notifications from Google Chat installed on another running profile, in my main profile? Switching profiles to check for notification, may be very inconvenient? That’s the mystery :) @@NaomiBrockwellTV
Marvelous!😊
yea, here in sweden you must use your id when you buy a prepaid sim card
Great video!
How does memory tagging differ from DEP? ChatGPT says DEP and memory tagging serve different purposes in enhancing system security. DEP focuses on preventing the execution of code in certain memory regions, while memory tagging aims to detect and prevent memory corruption vulnerabilities by adding additional metadata to memory allocations.
I've been looking at getting the UP Phone from Unplugged. Can you please compare the two.
x.com/GrapheneOS/status/1808161048194671006
The problem/irony/inconvenience being it only works with the flagship phones of the very corporation you are most likely seeking to thwart.
A bit of a problem for multiple reasons.
For the amount of effort required, I can't bring myself to avoid Google by purchasing a Google hardware product, and relying on Google for ongoing hardware driver updates (closed-source, binary blobs). Sure, I may have replaced the OS from Andorid to GrapheneOS, but underneath it all Google owns my phone. Totally perplexing why GrapheneOS only supports Google Pixel devices.
[edit: you make great videos, but I'm not comfortable with this approach. I could try CalixOS with a Moto G32, but then Motorola (Lenovo) handles closed-source driver updates. Perhaps, I'm being a perfectionist expecting a complete solution. Just like any Linux PC and closed source hardware, it's much better than Windows even though it's incomplete.]
"Totally perplexing why GrapheneOS only supports Google Pixel devices." Was the video not clear? Their reasoning is pretty solid
Yes why is that? I wonder what Rob Braxman has to say about it.
Thank you very much Naomi