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> 1. Google account - I have one because it's required for Android, but I have never used Gmail, do not search from my Google account or ever log into it from m
by Sylos 10y ago
> 1. Google account - I have one because it's required for Android, but I have never used Gmail, do not search from my Google account or ever log into it from my browser.
I haven't run stock Android in a while (and instead just CyanogenMod), but I'm pretty sure that it's not actually required, i.e. you can skip account creation during setup and then install alternative app stores like F-Droid, Aptoide or Amazon.
If we include CyanogenMod or other ROMs, then it's definitely possible, though. I do own and use an Android phone and deleted my Google-account probably half a year ago...
- ACS_Solver 10y agoI also prefer Cyanogen, although I like having access to the Google Play store even on that. While that's tied to my Google account, it's an informed choice, I am fine with Google knowing what Play Store apps I have installed, and I use F-Droid at the same time for some other apps. One of the great things about Cyanogen is maintaining tight control even over Google's apps and how much they track me.
- ryukafalz 10y ago> One of the great things about Cyanogen is maintaining tight control even over Google's apps and how much they track me. Are you sure? How much is Play Services tracking you? I run MicroG on my own phone, personally. It's a FOSS implementation of (most of) the Play Services APIs. https://microg.org/ https://microg.org/
- Gorgor 10y agoBut is it possible to use Google Play Services without a Google Account? For many people, that's synonymous with using Android.
- snthd 10y agoIf you have the option to log in to a google account you have google play services installed. It keeps a connection open to google (even if you aren't logged in) to support push messaging - which many apps use.