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my previous device I used YouTube Vanced for music and videos, but I guess Vanced isn’t around anymore, and I’m pretty out of date on what the current options are… any insight on streaming specifically?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!

  • SecurityPro@lemmy.ml
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    5
    ·
    6 months ago

    Not in the US. A phone “purchased” on contract is carrier locked and you can’t unlock the bootloader, which needs to be done in order to install a different OS.

    • smeg
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      2
      ·
      6 months ago

      I found some very old posts that says network and bootloader unlocking are unrelated, is this no longer the case?

      • SecurityPro@lemmy.ml
        link
        fedilink
        arrow-up
        3
        ·
        6 months ago

        Apparently not, I have a Pixel 8 Pro that I got free on a promotion from AT&T. The bootloader is locked on it and grayed out.

        • smeg
          link
          fedilink
          English
          arrow-up
          3
          ·
          6 months ago

          That’s some serious bullshit, my condolences