Or you can install Lineage or another open source OS. Like a desktop PC you need to make sure your hardware is compatible when you buy.
Actually you do still get updates direct from Google, via Play Services. While the core OS (kernel, drivers) can only be updated by your device manufacturer most of Android sits on top of all that and is updated separately. That's particularly important for security fixes, which is why you don't see vast Android phone botnets.
...and lose some stuff in the process. I did this for years, but you're locked out of banking apps and android pay since most devices no longer pass SafetyNet checks. I was able to fool it with Magisk for a while but it's a cat and mouse game that I got tired of playing.
Really? My bank app works just fine in Lineage OS. I don't use and will never use anything like "Android Pay", so I can't say there.
Magisk is a one time systemless root, generally only a good choice if you are using a stock ROM. What cat and mouse game are you talking about? You install it and it just works when you need superuser permission.
Banking apps check SafetyNet status. LineageOS won't pass SafetyNet without Magisk, and that works for a while until Google expands SafetyNet checks and it no longer passes. Eventually Magisk gets better at hiding and it works again. This is the cat and mouse game I am referring to.
Root works fine, and will probably work for life. It's the other checks that get you.
Only through hard work and perseverance can one truly suffer.
Android updates (Score:5, Informative)
Unlike the Windows platform for PC, the user is not in control of the update process.
You can't just go to google and say, please update my phone.
You have to wait for the carrier, and or manufacturer.
Re: (Score:2)
Or you can install Lineage or another open source OS. Like a desktop PC you need to make sure your hardware is compatible when you buy.
Actually you do still get updates direct from Google, via Play Services. While the core OS (kernel, drivers) can only be updated by your device manufacturer most of Android sits on top of all that and is updated separately. That's particularly important for security fixes, which is why you don't see vast Android phone botnets.
Re:Android updates (Score:2)
...and lose some stuff in the process. I did this for years, but you're locked out of banking apps and android pay since most devices no longer pass SafetyNet checks. I was able to fool it with Magisk for a while but it's a cat and mouse game that I got tired of playing.
Re: (Score:0)
Really? My bank app works just fine in Lineage OS. I don't use and will never use anything like "Android Pay", so I can't say there.
Magisk is a one time systemless root, generally only a good choice if you are using a stock ROM. What cat and mouse game are you talking about? You install it and it just works when you need superuser permission.
Re: (Score:2)
Banking apps check SafetyNet status. LineageOS won't pass SafetyNet without Magisk, and that works for a while until Google expands SafetyNet checks and it no longer passes. Eventually Magisk gets better at hiding and it works again. This is the cat and mouse game I am referring to.
Root works fine, and will probably work for life. It's the other checks that get you.