In today’s world, where data privacy and digital freedom are increasingly at risk, many are seeking alternatives to mainstream operating systems and tech ecosystems that are heavily reliant on surveillance and data collection. As part of this journey, I am using a refurbished Google Pixel 3A as my ‘naughty phone’—a device that serves as a secure and private gateway to decentralized platforms and applications. Running LineageOS, an open-source Android-based operating system, my Pixel 3A allows me to escape the clutches of Google and Microsoft, which dominate much of our digital lives.
Why LineageOS?
For anyone concerned with privacy, the move towards de-googling your life is a compelling one. LineageOS is an Android-based, open-source operating system that strips away the proprietary components and data collection mechanisms that are embedded in mainstream Android devices. It’s a natural choice for those who wish to control their devices without giving away personal information to large corporations. LineageOS allows users to run their phones free of Google services, while still maintaining access to essential apps through open-source app stores like F-Droid.
With LineageOS, I have the freedom to install apps that prioritize security and privacy, such as Protonmail, Signal, Telegram, Odysee, Rumble, and various cryptocurrency wallet and exchange apps. This setup makes it easy to separate my “naughty phone” from my regular device, which I use for more conventional purposes.
Why the Google Pixel 3A?
The Google Pixel 3A was a strategic choice. As one of the lightest and smallest Pixel handsets, it offers the perfect balance between performance and portability. Additionally, Google Pixel devices are known for their compatibility with custom ROMs like LineageOS, making the Pixel 3A an ideal candidate for anyone looking to install an alternative OS.
Moreover, with prices for a near-new Google Pixel 3A dropping below $105 on Amazon, it becomes an affordable option for anyone looking to repurpose a smartphone for privacy-focused tasks. While newer devices exist, the Pixel 3A’s compact size, ease of customization, and strong performance for everyday tasks make it an excellent choice for running privacy-centric applications and tools.
For a deeper dive into the Pixel 3A, you can read my full product review here.
What’s on My ‘Naughty Phone’?
This dedicated device is not just about running apps. It serves as a secure hub for decentralized communications and cryptocurrency management. Here’s a quick rundown of what I use it for:
- Protonmail: Encrypted email service for secure communications
- Signal: End-to-end encrypted messaging platform
- Telegram: Another secure messaging app, often used in the crypto community
- Odysee and Rumble: Platforms for decentralized content sharing
- Cryptocurrency wallets and exchange apps: Secure management of digital assets
- Linux Terminal: I’ve set up my Pixel 3A to run a Monero node and mine Monero, one of the most privacy-focused cryptocurrencies, along with executing Python scripts for various tasks.
The ability to run a Monero node and engage in light cryptocurrency mining further emphasizes the power of LineageOS on a Pixel 3A. It transforms a standard smartphone into a mini server for decentralized financial transactions. This is crucial for privacy advocates who wish to keep their financial activities away from prying eyes.
Transitioning to a Decentralized Life with LineageOS
While the Pixel 3A serves as my privacy-centric device, my Google Pixel 4A is my ‘normal’ phone. However, I am gradually working towards a life that is free of Google and Microsoft dependencies. LineageOS is the smoother path to this goal, offering a de-googled environment without sacrificing the usability that I need for daily life. Through F-Droid, an open-source app repository, I can replicate much of what I do on my regular phone while reducing my digital footprint.
Transitioning to LineageOS has not only allowed me to better control my data, but it has also enticed family and friends to explore privacy-centric alternatives. By replicating popular apps—such as those used in Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp groups—on F-Droid, I’m showing others how easy it is to make the switch without sacrificing convenience.
If you’re considering making a similar switch, you can read more about using LineageOS as a de-googled phone here.
The Importance of a ‘Naughty Phone’
In the context of increasing global surveillance and data privacy concerns, having a ‘naughty phone’—a secondary device for secure and private tasks—has become more relevant than ever. Whether it’s communicating through encrypted channels, managing cryptocurrency, or browsing decentralized content platforms, a device running LineageOS offers unparalleled privacy while keeping you connected to critical services.
Moreover, owning two separate devices allows me to compartmentalize my digital life. One phone handles the conventional tasks of everyday life, while the other is used exclusively for private, decentralized activities. This separation further enhances security and privacy by ensuring that sensitive actions are not tied to the same device I use for more mainstream purposes.
Using LineageOS on a refurbished Google Pixel 3A offers an affordable and effective path towards greater digital privacy and decentralization. With the right setup, you can enjoy the benefits of a de-googled phone while maintaining access to essential apps and services. As we move towards a future where privacy is harder to maintain, it’s never been more important to take control of our digital lives. The Pixel 3A and LineageOS are just the start of my journey toward a fully decentralized and privacy-focused life—and they could be yours too.
Buy a near-new Google Pixel 3A for less than $105 on Amazon.
