I’m considering whether I should uninstall updates and disable Google Play Services and Google Framework Services on my bloated phone to enhance my privacy. Is it worth doing this?

Is Google Play Services merely a service or library that other apps rely on, or does it function more like spyware? What are the implications of disabling these services for my device’s functionality and overall user experience?

  • Rodneyck@lemm.ee
    2·
    9 hours ago

    I run CalyxOS, everything goes through microG, totally degoogled, and it is a blessing. My pixel 4a5G should be end of life with Android 14, but thanks to CalyxOS, I have all the security updates and Android 15 humming along. And yes, like you said, mostly pixel phones and a few outliers can be used with these alternative OS’s/ROMs.

    • haverholm@kbin.earth
      2·
      3 hours ago

      Those custom ROMs can extend the life and support cycle for phones a good while after the manufacturers declare them dead, yeah.

      I will say that Pixels are the best supported on some custom ROMs, but LineageOS is developed and maintained for dozens if not hundreds more.