FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a privacy phone?
Privacy phones are normal smartphones re-coded to run custom, open-source software instead of the factory version from the manufacturer. This removes all built-in tracking from big companies like Google or the phone maker, so far less of your data gets collected or sent out automatically.
What's wrong with normal phones and their software?
In traditional phones, every web search, message, and transaction is logged with your name and current location. This data is then sold to companies, governments, and law enforcement. This data is not only used to help companies market to you, but it is also a permanent record of all of your activity, which can be used to build a behavioral profile on you.
Why choose a privacy phone?
Privacy phones give you control over your personal data while still being a fully usable smartphone. You still generate some data, but that data will no longer be linked to a Google or Apple account with your location data. In other words, the apps you do use won’t know who you are or where you are, and thus your data isn’t traced back to you.
You get less spying from corporations (and others), longer security support on many models, no forced bloatware or ads, and the freedom to decide what apps and services run on your device. It's ideal if you want real privacy gains without giving up everyday features or buying ultra-expensive niche hardware.
How is a privacy phone different from a regular smartphone?
It looks and works a lot like standard Android—smooth and familiar—but it's stripped of the tracking layers, manufacturer extras, and forced services. You get stronger privacy controls, optional add-ons only when you want them, and a pure base that puts you in charge instead of the company.
Are privacy phones actually more private than regular ones?
Yes—significantly. Without built-in telemetry or mandatory company services, much less data leaves your phone on its own. You have fine-grained control over permissions, and there's no constant background reporting to advertisers or ecosystems. It's one of the biggest steps you can take to reduce corporate surveillance on a mobile device.
Do privacy phones still get security updates?
Yes, and often for longer than stock phones. The community behind the software provides regular security patches and new Android versions on supported models—keeping your device protected well after the original manufacturer stops updates. This helps older or budget phones stay safe without needing to upgrade frequently.
Can I still use my Apps?
Absolutely—with some changes. All our privacy phones come pre-loaded with apps that provide email, browsing, messaging, video, navigation, and music services. All these apps are open source, with no trackers (versus normal apps that average 20+ trackers!). Where possible, we recommend using open-source apps installed from F-droid (an open-source, tracker-free version of the Play Store).
If needed, we can still use apps that rely on Google Services, with safeguards to prevent data leakage.
What are open-source Apps?
Open-source apps are free applications where the code is publicly available for all to see. Traditional applications hide their code, and have secret trackers, keyloggers, and often package and sell your data (and even listen to you!).
Open source apps are a solution to this problem, made by people who want to provide free, safe versions of tools we use every day. The makers rely only on donations, instead of monetizing your data.
Is a privacy phone hard to set up or use?
Not at all when you buy from us—we deliver it ready to go, just like any new phone. It runs smoothly with a clean, familiar interface. If you ever want to tweak settings, the guides are straightforward, but most users find it simple and reliable right out of the box.
What are the downsides?
A small number of Google-exclusive features (like some automatic syncing) may need extra setup or won't work the same way. A few apps might require minor adjustments at first. These are usually small inconveniences compared to the privacy, longevity, and control you gain—no big sacrifices for the average user.
Are privacy phones safe and trustworthy?
Yes—the software is open-source, meaning the code is public and reviewed by experts worldwide for security and hidden issues. Downloads are verified, there's no corporate backdoor access, and large communities have used these setups safely for years.