Understanding Android’s Open Source Nature
Google’s Android mobile operating system is open source, allowing anyone to theoretically build their own mobile OS. However, the limited number of good alternatives highlights that a complete mobile experience involves much more than just the operating system.
The Challenges with Android
Device-Specific Drivers and Play Services
Android’s open-source nature is complemented by device-specific drivers and Google’s Play Services. This combination can sometimes lead to a frustrating user experience, especially with constant updates slowing down the device.
Personal Experience with Android
Years ago, I grew tired of Android’s frequent updates, which often slowed down my internet. This frustration led me to seek alternatives, eventually discovering /e/OS.
Google’s Control Over Android
Play Integrity APIs
Google uses Play Integrity APIs to ensure apps work only with its version of Android, effectively preventing downstream forks from functioning properly. This approach is reminiscent of Microsoft’s old tactics.
Regulatory Outlook
Many developers believe these anticompetitive practices will eventually be regulated by governments. However, the complexity of the code makes it challenging for non-technical people to understand.
Exploring /e/OS
What is /e/OS?
/e/OS starts with a base system of LineageOS, adds Micro G to handle Google API functions, and focuses on providing a complete mobile OS experience. This includes syncing data, online backups, and ensuring app compatibility.
Privacy-First Design
The standout feature of /e/OS is its privacy-first design, centered around the Advanced Privacy app and widget. This app allows users to block in-app trackers, hide IP addresses, and spoof geolocation.
“Thanks to the Advanced Privacy app, I can tell you that in the past 10 days, /e/OS has blocked 3,030 app trackers from contacting tracking servers.”
App Tracker Insights
Using /e/OS reveals how many apps constantly transmit data back to servers. While /e/OS blocks these transmissions, it’s disheartening to see the extent of data tracking in apps.
Photograph: Scott Gilbertson
The /e/OS App Lounge
Unified App Store
The /e/OS App Lounge combines apps from various sources, including the Play Store and F-Droid, into one place. Users can also choose to display only open-source apps.
Privacy Ratings
The App Lounge provides privacy information for each app, grading them on a scale from 1 to 10 based on their privacy practices and required permissions.
Future Developments
/e/OS aims to make the App Lounge available as an app that can be installed on any device, further enhancing its usability.
Boot Loader Security
Understanding Boot Loaders
Boot loaders ensure that only the OS signed with a private encryption key (held by the phone manufacturer) can load, preventing unauthorized modifications.
Security Considerations
While an unlocked boot loader poses a security risk, it requires physical access to the device to exploit. For most users, this risk is minimal.
Personal Choice
I’ve used various mobile operating systems with unlocked boot loaders for years without issues. It’s essential to be informed and make this choice based on individual security needs.
3 Comments
Isn’t it ironic to claim a better alternative when it’s just another layer on Android!
Isn’t that like saying a new coat of paint makes a car revolutionary?
Or is it just wishful thinking to call it better when it’s still Android-based?