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my previous device I used YouTube Vanced for music and videos, but I guess Vanced isn’t around anymore, and I’m pretty out of date on what the current options are… any insight on streaming specifically?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!
Consider yourself lucky for using a Pixel. These are actually the easiest devices to degoogle. You can replace the entire bloated and spyware-infested stock Pixel OS with GrapheneOS, a much more private, secure and minimalistic, open-source alternative. It is pretty easy to install, the web installer should be self-explanatory, but you can also watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAZlmYKrwfk (it does say for Pixel 7, but the steps are exactly the same on the Pixel 8 or any other Pixel, so don’t worry)