I am new to the Pixel 3a and used to TWRP installations and custom ROMs and started to understand the special situation with pixel, root etc. I would like to keep the Pixel stock, but want to get rid of all google apps. Is there a way - without using a custom ROM (the boot.img-way) - to degoogle this phone?
Thank you in advance!
Guttergorm said:
I am new to the Pixel 3a and used to TWRP installations and custom ROMs and started to understand the special situation with pixel, root etc. I would like to keep the Pixel stock, but want to get rid of all google apps. Is there a way - without using a custom ROM (the boot.img-way) - to degoogle this phone?
Thank you in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The best way that I know to debloat with or without root is to use ADB. See the XDA tutorial here.
If you have root there's also the debloat magisk module.
For the ADB route, there's even a preset script to remove all the google from your phone.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...g/script-universal-android-debloater-t4069209
I use System App Remover myself. Through trial and error, I was able to remove about 40 different apps and programs from the factory system.
I now just use microg for a few of the things I need, and then sideload all the apps I use.
Prior to that, I used a couple of magisk modules to minimize the battery use of the google services. I also froze and disabled what I could.
Related
Ive found a few for CM/Lineage versions, and COS12 but not one for COS 13 Official.
Does anyone happen to have a twrp flashable one? Or perhaps a list of safely removed items for the purposes of below usage.
And could all messaging and telephone/SIM services/apps & cyanogen phone home stuff, be removed as well? Making mine into a PokemonGo tablet for my kid. Doesn't need anything except for Play Services GPS/Wifi functionality, & ability to install from play store. I know it can all be removed through root however, everytime I root, and eventually full unroot, I get the incompatible OS screen that Niandicks setup to deter cheating... Have not found a way around it and do not want to deal with magisk, pph SU, suhide and so on, thus TiBU is not an option. Would like to just flash stock COS13 f/w, flash a debloat script and setup for my kid. That's all.
OK, I’ve ordered and am awaiting arrival of my unlocked Pixel 2 from Google. I am on Verizon GFUDP and I plan on unlocking, rooting with Magisk and installing the tethering module. Then I plan on enjoying the phone and pretty much don’t plan on fussing around much with it.
I plan on unlocking before I do anything, including installing my Verizon sim. But do I have to allow the phone to do any upgrading prior to the rooting process? Also, can I (should I)hold off installing my sim until everything is rooted and up and running?
I was also thinking of using the Skipsoft toolset, but not sure if it is necessary. What are your thoughts on that?
Also, regarding lockscreen security on the phone, is fingerprint or password required? Can you use one or the other? I never use a passcode in general so wondering how it works.
Any "must have" apps to take advantage of Pixel 2?
Any help or advice is much appreciated!
Thanks in advance!
I purchased two Pixel 2 phones, and did the same thing you're planning on doing. I also have Verizon.
1) Unlocking the bootloader will wipe the device; Do this first. If you set up the phone prior to OEM unlocking, you will lose everything you set up.
2) Installing the SIM at anytime won't affect anything. When you install the Verizon SIM, some verizon apps will download. You can delete them if you want.
3) I did not use skipsoft. If you have a basic knowledge of ADB/Fastboot you will be fine without it.
4) The finger print reader is crazy fast. Also, setting up the phone it asks for a pin. Try it with the security of both to start. If you dislike it you can disable it in the future.
5) Apps I like/use: Tasker, Magisk, Titanium Backup, Custom Navigation Bar, Hide "using battery" notification, AdAway, Nova Launcher, Swipepad (where I put the "reboot" shortcuts), Reboot (Material Design) [ I made shortcuts to enter recovery, bootloader, etc], 1weather, Digilux (screen brightness control from the fingerprint reader), and Naptime (Have seen some battery length increase, though slows down notifications)
6) Not really apps, though @Tulsadiver made mods via Aroma from here: Various Mods for 8.1 December Update (Added Screen shots to show black notifications, battery icon removal, and clock w/day & ampm)
7) I like the Snoke kernel found here: [KERNEL]Snoke Kernel by @DespairFactor
There is a guide here: [GUIDE] Unlock/Flash/Root for the Pixel 2 (walleye) by @nathanchance
I laid out steps in this post here: [GUIDE] Unlock/Flash/Root for the Pixel 2 (walleye) - Post 127
Here are links because sometimes they can be tiresome to find:
SDK Platform Tools
(Follow the steps in the linked Post 127 to make cmd and SDK tools easier)
Factory Images for Nexus and Pixel Devices
Full OTA Images for Nexus and Pixel Devices
amajamar said:
Do I have to allow the phone to do any upgrading prior to the rooting process?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should.
amajamar said:
Also, can I (should I)hold off installing my sim until everything is rooted and up and running?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't make a difference.
amajamar said:
I was also thinking of using the Skipsoft toolset, but not sure if it is necessary. What are your thoughts on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd do it manually via the command line with fastboot and adb - knowing how to use these tools is very important in case something ever goes wrong.
amajamar said:
Also, regarding lockscreen security on the phone, is fingerprint or password required? Can you use one or the other? I never use a passcode in general so wondering how it works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can use both.
Diesel_Jeremiah said:
I purchased two Pixel 2 phones, and did the same thing you're planning on doing. I also have Verizon.
1) Unlocking the bootloader will wipe the device; Do this first. If you set up the phone prior to OEM unlocking, you will lose everything you set up.
2) Installing the SIM at anytime won't affect anything. When you install the Verizon SIM, some verizon apps will download. You can delete them if you want.
3) I did not use skipsoft. If you have a basic knowledge of ADB/Fastboot you will be fine without it.
4) The finger print reader is crazy fast. Also, setting up the phone it asks for a pin. Try it with the security of both to start. If you dislike it you can disable it in the future.
5) Apps I like/use: Tasker, Magisk, Titanium Backup, Custom Navigation Bar, Hide "using battery" notification, AdAway, Nova Launcher, Swipepad (where I put the "reboot" shortcuts), Reboot (Material Design) [ I made shortcuts to enter recovery, bootloader, etc], 1weather, Digilux (screen brightness control from the fingerprint reader), and Naptime (Have seen some battery length increase, though slows down notifications)
6) Not really apps, though @Tulsadiver made mods via Aroma from here: Various Mods for 8.1 December Update (Added Screen shots to show black notifications, battery icon removal, and clock w/day & ampm)
7) I like the Snoke kernel found here: [KERNEL]Snoke Kernel by @DespairFactor
There is a guide here: [GUIDE] Unlock/Flash/Root for the Pixel 2 (walleye) by @nathanchance
I laid out steps in this post here: [GUIDE] Unlock/Flash/Root for the Pixel 2 (walleye) - Post 127
Here are links because sometimes they can be tiresome to find:
SDK Platform Tools
(Follow the steps in the linked Post 127 to make cmd and SDK tools easier)
Factory Images for Nexus and Pixel Devices
Full OTA Images for Nexus and Pixel Devices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice! Thanks! No need for TWRP? I was going to install it.
Was there a "thing" regarding which version of Magisk to install? I thought I read something somewhere about issues with the newest version.
amajamar said:
Nice! Thanks! No need for TWRP? I was going to install it.
Was there a "thing" regarding which version of Magisk to install? I thought I read something somewhere about issues with the newest version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have TWRP installed as well. I didn't comment on it since you didn't ask about it.
NOTE: You have to boot TWRP img, then install TWRP ZIP. Search threads, you'll find the info.
NOTE 2: You cannot install TWRP, Magisk and Kernel at the same time. Best way is to install everything is: TWRP ZIP, reboot. Flash Kernel, reboot. Flash Magisk, reboot.
As for Magisk, I'm on v5.5.3 and V15.2 without issues.
I've been upgrading through Magisk direct install without issues.
NOTE: You will get a pop up that your system has an issue and contact the manufacturer after Magisk. Do not panic, it'd because Magisk is modifying the DTBO img. It does not harm anything.
I also installed Viper4Android from Magisk.
Version 2.5.0.4 = works normal and processes correctly.
Diesel_Jeremiah said:
I have TWRP installed as well. I didn't comment on it since you didn't ask about it.
NOTE: You have to boot TWRP img, then install TWRP ZIP. Search threads, you'll find the info.
NOTE 2: You cannot install TWRP, Magisk and Kernel at the same time. Best way is to install everything is: TWRP ZIP, reboot. Flash Kernel, reboot. Flash Magisk, reboot.
As for Magisk, I'm on v5.5.3 and V15.2 without issues.
I've been upgrading through Magisk direct install without issues.
NOTE: You will get a pop up that your system has an issue and contact the manufacturer after Magisk. Do not panic, it'd because Magisk is modifying the DTBO img. It does not harm anything.
I also installed Viper4Android from Magisk.
Version 2.5.0.4 = works normal and processes correctly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome! What features does the Snoke kernel give? Any issues with it? Do you need to flash the factory kernel to take an OTA?
I never used Viper4Android before. What does it do?
Thanks.
amajamar said:
Awesome! What features does the Snoke kernel give? Any issues with it? Do you need to flash the factory kernel to take an OTA?
I never used Viper4Android before. What does it do?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Custom Kernel: Android Basics 101: Understanding Kernels – XDA Developer TV
I feel a bit snappier response and better battery life. There is Snoke, Flash, and ElementalX to name a few.
If you've loaded TWRP at all or mounted system rw; OTAs will not work. You'll have to use the factory images.
I've had no issues with the Snoke kernel. Just ensure you use the proper one for 8.0 or 8.1.
Viper4Android: Get the Sound you Deserve with ViPER4Android -- Android App Review
Viper4Android and Pizel 2 front facing speakers work very well together.
Diesel_Jeremiah said:
Custom Kernel: Android Basics 101: Understanding Kernels – XDA Developer TV
I feel a bit snappier response and better battery life. There is Snoke, Flash, and ElementalX to name a few.
If you've loaded TWRP at all or mounted system rw; OTAs will not work. You'll have to use the factory images.
I've had no issues with the Snoke kernel. Just ensure you use the proper one for 8.0 or 8.1.
Viper4Android: Get the Sound you Deserve with ViPER4Android -- Android App Review
Viper4Android and Pizel 2 front facing speakers work very well together.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent information! Thanks!
Hello!
I have a question about ROM, is there any that is without the unnecessary applications of Samsung, Google etc, example: Samsung Members, Samsung Connect, VR Gear, Samsung Health etc, a clean but non-root rom, why use bank applications and cards.
Sorry for the question, I always used cell phones with root, but I did not use banking applications. Is there a solution?
The touchwiz based ROMs like SuperMan let you choose what Samsung apps and Google apps to install during the flash process, so you can just untick the ones you don't want. There's also a debloat script floating around somewhere which removes unnecessary apps.
You can also use root, and a ROM with Magisk which hides root and passes safetynet so long as you don't use Xposed. That'll let you use bank apps.
Beanvee7 said:
The touchwiz based ROMs like SuperMan let you choose what Samsung apps and Google apps to install during the flash process, so you can just untick the ones you don't want. There's also a debloat script floating around somewhere which removes unnecessary apps.
You can also use root, and a ROM with Magisk which hides root and passes safetynet so long as you don't use Xposed. That'll let you use bank apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the answer, I was an old user of my old and good Xperia Z2, rooted but now with the S7 I'm lost, I just wanted to have a way to not have unnecessary applications.
I'm finally not needing something that needs root, just like it used to.
Hey folks,
Firstly my question is not from noob point of view but right now I'm sensing there is no great reason to flash custom rom or root. Am i wrong?
I know that we can get ad blocking benefits. But except that can you guys tell your reasons for going beyond the comfort of living with op6 with:
stock os
Good enough & Needed options
Updates via otas and
a complete all feature working rom.
Use block this app to block ads, this is the first phone in 9 years I have had no reason to root. Just enjoy it ?
AdAway
Firewall to restrict curious/annoying apps
Full backup via TiBackup
Automization with Tasker on Screenlock
Backup of App Data to NAS
Access to Logcat
And it's easy to keep on OTA... Apply OTA, before rebooting reinstall Magisk, reboot
So why not?
AdBlock via VPN does not help me as I use VPN permanently already and only one VPN is supported.
harigavara said:
Hey folks,
Firstly my question is not from noob point of view but right now I'm sensing there is no great reason to flash custom rom or root. Am i wrong?
I know that we can get ad blocking benefits. But except that can you guys tell your reasons for going beyond the comfort of living with op6 with:
stock os
Good enough & Needed options
Updates via otas and
a complete all feature working rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The custom roms have added back a few things OP took out like always on display and better do not disturb settings.
Root and custom roms don't break OTA updates. I rooted on day 1 and I've successfully taken every OTA.
Custom kernels also add a few things that matter to some people, like Wireguard VPN integration.
For me i need root because of themes, diffrent emoji's, adblocker, doze for google play services, diffrent font and for a custom kernel so i get the most out of my device and get it to my liking.
Titanium backup.. Some good modules in Magisk,... Custom kernels.. Some reasons to root
harigavara said:
Hey folks,
Firstly my question is not from noob point of view but right now I'm sensing there is no great reason to flash custom rom or root. Am i wrong?
I know that we can get ad blocking benefits. But except that can you guys tell your reasons for going beyond the comfort of living with op6 with:
stock os
Good enough & Needed options
Updates via otas and
a complete all feature working rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you root and use a custom rom then you can make a backup and I notice a MASSIVE speed increase, I've put xxNoLimitxx on my op6 and its just not compareble to stock...soooooo faast!!
Also I haven't come across any bugs at all yet!! Also you have Viper4Android and can increase the sound dramatically which helps big time. I find it in stock alittle soft.
Trust me you'll be so flabbergasted with the speed its crazy when the op6 is rooted. I had a op5 before this for a year and didn't notice such a increase in speed. Aps are sooo quick its nutz.
Anyways tootally up to you but if you do your homework you'll be fine, For me it went super quick rooting and chucking the custom rom on, was already done in 30min after all my shizzle was move over from my op5.
Anyways goodluck with deciding whatch gonna do.
oem android os must be root that you can turn on/off in developers settings !!
Root rights is extremely important feature on my phone and I do not even need a new phone that does not have it.
For now I have to use third party mod to be able to get right rights.
Shame on Google and Oneplus for it !!
I haven't needed to put a Custom ROM on my OP5 or again with my OP6 but I have to have root and recovery. EX Kernel is a must with Blocking Wakelocks, Titanium Backup for backups and freezing apps I don't want, Magisk Modules like YouTube Vanced, AOD, eventually Google Camera, Changing system sounds, adding more fonts, and for Nova Launcher Prime to be fully working needs root for things like double tap to sleep gestures and pull down notification from anywhere on screen.
I may not really need a custom ROM these days but I want the option, but I will never buy a phone I can't get ROOT and TWRP on.
djrocks said:
Titanium backup.. Some good modules in Magisk,... Custom kernels.. Some reasons to root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good modules are?
Eric214 said:
I haven't needed to put a Custom ROM on my OP5 or again with my OP6 but I have to have root and recovery. EX Kernel is a must with Blocking Wakelocks, Titanium Backup for backups and freezing apps I don't want, Magisk Modules like YouTube Vanced, AOD, eventually Google Camera, Changing system sounds, adding more fonts, and for Nova Launcher Prime to be fully working needs root for things like double tap to sleep gestures and pull down notification from anywhere on screen.
I may not really need a custom ROM these days but I want the option, but I will never buy a phone I can't get ROOT and TWRP on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cheers!
Returned the lg v30+for the standalone reason that i can't unlock the bootloader and root it in my entire life.
harigavara said:
Good modules are?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google framework if needed for Google dialer, YouTube Vanced, always on display just to name a few I'm using.
---------- Post added at 03:28 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:27 PM ----------
harigavara said:
Cheers!
Returned the lg v30+for the standalone reason that i can't unlock the bootloader and root it in my entire life.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ha ha, amen brotha! Root is a way of life!
In my honest opinion if you need to ask users to give yourself reasons why you should root then you maybe shouldn't *I don't mean to sound sarcastic or a ***** but in this case anyway a few pointers to root would be modules with magisk for many things stock cant provide, titanium or root explorer etc for backups freezing apps and getting access to system files if need be, custom roms *as many have great mods added that stock cant do for example Reno rom has many features unique that stock and other roms can't provide*, kernels *can be tweaked to your liking and also modded for many other things to do that stock can't*, you can still get the official updates rooted so basically if they are allowing you to access it unlike many companies that don't why not take advantage?
harigavara said:
Good modules are?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sysconfig patcher, youtube Vanced, xxx no limits rom (which is a module), google dialer, etc
Flash twrp, magisk, a custom kernel, xposed, xposed gravitybox, YouTube Vanced and Adaway and you'll have tons of mods on the stock ROM and you won't have to flash those stock based custom Roms that will make you want to pull your hair out.
Would I be better off just doing that instead of custom rom? I know how to do this. With root I use debloat app which you can already get on the f droid. I don't always feel like using a PC to get rid of debloated apps. You can even remove anything google not recommended the keyboard you can remove photos replace it with a third party gallery app like lineage or even get rid of Google camera for something else or just install it as a regular app.
You can remove bloat from the stock OS, i think most people just pick a custom OS and use something like opengapps to add specific google services they want to keep.
Hi,
If you want to stay on Stock Rom I recommend Universal Debloater
[2022-07-03] [v0.5.1] Universal Android Debloater
Universal Android Debloater This is a complete rewrite in Rust of the UAD bash script. DISCLAIMER : Use this software at your own risk. I am not responsible for anything that could happen to your phone. Summary I try to maintain a...
forum.xda-developers.com