Smartphone Non Android Options Beyond Android

If you're looking for a smartphone non-Android option, you've got several choices beyond the usual Android suspects. iOS devices, such as iPhones, are a popular alternative.

One thing to consider is the security of your device. iOS devices are known for their high level of security, thanks to their closed ecosystem and strict app review process. This makes them a great option for those who want to protect their personal data.

Another option is Windows phones, which offer a unique blend of Android and Windows features. Windows phones are designed to integrate seamlessly with other Windows devices, making them a great choice for those who use Microsoft products.

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Switching to an alternative mobile OS can be a great way to improve your privacy and take control of your personal information.

Many alternative OSes are free and open-source, like Ubuntu Touch and Manjaro ARM, which can be installed on devices like the PinePhone.

Some alternative OSes, like Apostrophy OS, are designed to be easy to use and understand, even for those who are new to alternative mobile OSes.

Apostrophy OS has a heavy focus on privacy and uses a subscription model, but it still allows users to access any app they already use on their Android device.

The PinePhone is an example of a device that supports multiple alternative OSes, including Arch Linux ARM and Sxmo.

If you're looking to switch to an alternative mobile OS, be aware that you may need to be careful when installing apps, as some alternative app stores may not have the same level of vetting as the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Here are some alternative OSes that you may want to consider:

These OSes offer a range of features and benefits, from improved privacy to a more secure and controlled user experience.

You'll lose the kind of customer support you get with a mainstream device, so be prepared to troubleshoot on your own.

You'll likely get some strange looks if you show up at the store asking for help with an alternative OS like Ubuntu Touch.

You'll also miss out on the kind of seamless app experience you're used to with Android or iOS.

Most alternative OSes won't have access to the apps you're accustomed to, which live on the Google Play store and the Apple App Store.

Installing apps not vetted by Google or Apple can be a risk, so you'll need to be careful and proceed at your own risk.

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If you're looking to dramatically improve your privacy, take control of your personal information, or just want to keep using your perfectly good old phone for a few more years, the answer may be replacing your phone's operating system with a free, open-source alternative.

Some alternative mobile OSes are designed to prioritize your privacy, such as LibertOS, which is secure by design and free of Big Tech components that collect user information for advertising and monetization purposes.

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These OSes may not be like what Android and iOS users are accustomed to, with wildly different navigation schemes and limited access to popular apps.

However, some alternative app stores and repositories, such as Amazon's AppStore, APKMirror, and F-Droid, can provide you with a selection of apps to choose from.

One thing to keep in mind is that installing apps not specifically vetted by Google or Apple can be a risk, so proceed with caution.

Some alternative mobile OSes, like LibertOS, also give users more visibility, control, and awareness of third-party data usage and risks.

Here are some alternative mobile OSes you can consider:

If you're looking for an alternative to Android, there are several options to consider. Ubuntu Touch has a unique navigation scheme and design language that's similar to modern smartphones, but very different. It's rooted in desktop Linux, not Android, and can run on over 52 devices.

PureOS is a privacy-focused distro developed by Purism, which has the distinction of being listed by the FSF as a free Linux distribution. It's based on Debian and uses the GNOME desktop environment, and is available on Purism's Librem laptops and mini desktops.

postmarketOS is a free, open-source, privacy-respecting OS that aims to make your hardware usable for a decade. It can boot on over 250 devices, but features aren't supported on all handsets.

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If you're looking to try an alternative mobile OS, start with open-source options. These operating systems are free to use and modify, making them a great way to dip your toes into the world of alternative mobile experiences.

One popular open-source option is LineageOS, which is based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). It offers a non-traditional upgrade path for devices that may not be getting Android 11. LineageOS doesn't come with Google Apps or services installed, but you can still install them if you want.

Another option is postmarketOS, which aims to create a free, open-source, privacy-respecting OS that will make your hardware usable for a decade. It currently supports over 250 devices, although not all features are available on all handsets.

If you're willing to put in the work, you can try installing alternative OSes on your device. Some popular options include Ubuntu Touch, PureOS, and postmarketOS. Just be aware that these OSes may have different navigation schemes and design languages, and you may need to be careful when installing apps.

Here are some popular open-source mobile OSes, listed in descending order of convenience:

Keep in mind that these OSes may not have access to all the apps you're used to, and you may need to be careful when installing apps from alternative stores. But if you're looking for a more private and customizable mobile experience, open-source options are definitely worth exploring.

The Light Phone is a game-changer for those looking to break free from the constant stream of notifications and distractions.

It's an unlocked, 4G LTE premium phone that's designed to be minimal and anxiety-inducing-free.

The phone has a customizable menu of simple tools, including an alarm, calculator, direction, and music player.

It also features a dashboard website to manage everything, ensuring a private user experience.

The Light Phone uses a unique electronic paper screen that doesn't emit blue light like traditional backlit screens.

This screen is visible in direct sunlight and is limited to black and white, which is actually a thoughtful design choice.

The phone can be used as a personal hotspot and has a headphone jack and Bluetooth connectivity.

Most users actually use the Light Phone as their primary phone, ditching their smartphones for good.

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The Apostrophy OS software has a dedicated phone, the Punkt MC02, which is a fairly standard Android phone. It's got a 6.67-inch IPS screen with a 2400 x 1080 resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate.

You can expect a MediaTek Dimensity 900 processor, 6GB of RAM, and 128GB of expandable storage. The phone also features a 64MP main camera, an 8MP ultrawide camera, and a 2MP macro camera.

The Punkt MC02 will set you back $749, which might be a tough sell considering the specs. But the good news is that more Apostrophy OS phones are coming, with another OEM already on board and a third one expected by the end of the year.

Apostrophy OS is an Android alternative that's gained attention for its heavy focus on privacy and unique subscription model. It's a decidedly niche option, but it's definitely worth considering.

Apostrophy has made its software surprisingly easy to operate and understand, which is no small feat. The company has done a great job of making it intuitive and user-friendly.

One of the biggest advantages of Apostrophy OS is that it allows you to use any app you're already familiar with on your Android phone. This means you can keep using your favorite apps without having to switch to a new platform.

However, Apostrophy OS is still a relatively new player in the market, and it faces significant challenges in terms of getting its operating system running on more devices and convincing people to buy a phone with a monthly subscription.

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