Database Info

Any way to get rid of or disable the U+ Convenience Feature thing on my Settings menu

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Probably a long shot, but is there any way to disable it on my Korean Snapdragon variant SM-N986N? Since I'm not in Korea (Philippines here, had to import because I didn't want an Exynos) the feature is useless to me. It's an eyesore on my settings menu and I'm wondering if there's a way to get rid of it.

PD MDM package blocker probably get it.
For an unrooted phone it's the easiest way to go especially if there's other bloatware or apks you want to kill.
Easy to undo if you need it latter.

blackhawk said:
PD MDM package blocker probably get it.
For an unrooted phone it's the easiest way to go especially if there's other bloatware or apks you want to kill.
Easy to undo if you need it latter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will it also get rid of the app being displayed in the Settings menu? That's actually the more annoying part for me, it would've been fine if it's just simple bloatware, but it has to be bloatware that's the 2nd topmost of my settings menu, my latent OCD is triggered.

DocLem said:
Will it also get rid of the app being displayed in the Settings menu? That's actually the more annoying part for me, it would've been fine if it's just simple bloatware, but it has to be bloatware that's the 2nd topmost of my settings menu, my latent OCD is triggered.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use it to block Samsung Device Care. It removes it removes it from the settings menu when blocked.
The block apk doesn't run at boot.
Use a little caution with it though because it's active even in safe mode as it is set as a system administrator.
It never cost me a hard reset in over 2 years of use.
It's the first app I install on the phone...

blackhawk said:
PD MDM package blocker probably get it.
For an unrooted phone it's the easiest way to go especially if there's other bloatware or apks you want to kill.
Easy to undo if you need it latter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
blackhawk said:
I use it to block Samsung Device Care. It removes it removes it from the settings menu when blocked.
The block apk doesn't run at boot.
Use a little caution with it though because it's active even in safe mode as it is set as a system administrator.
It never cost me a hard reset in over 2 years of use.
It's the first app I install on the phone...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome, thanks dude! Will give this a shot. It's called Package Disabler Pro (Samsung) on the Play Store right?

blackhawk said:
I use it to block Samsung Device Care. It removes it removes it from the settings menu when blocked.
The block apk doesn't run at boot.
Use a little caution with it though because it's active even in safe mode as it is set as a system administrator.
It never cost me a hard reset in over 2 years of use.
It's the first app I install on the phone...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude I just bought and installed it now and it worked beautifully! No more annoying convenience feature crap. Thanks!

DocLem said:
Will it also get rid of the app being displayed in the Settings menu? That's actually the more annoying part for me, it would've been fine if it's just simple bloatware, but it has to be bloatware that's the 2nd topmost of my settings menu, my latent OCD is triggered.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DocLem said:
Dude I just bought and installed it now and it worked beautifully! No more annoying convenience feature crap. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good
If it fails get PD MDM, you buy it directly from their website.

blackhawk said:
Good
If it fails get PD MDM, you buy it directly from their website.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah really? For future reference, what is their website? I tried googling but I'm feeling unsure since some of the hits I got look shady lol. The Play Store version works but I want to be ready in case I need the PD MDM version.

https://www.packagedisabler.com/
This is the only one I now trust.

You can use ADB app control to disabled or unistall it. I tried and my phone now like KOO CSC, U+ apps .

claiphenter said:
You can use ADB app control to disabled or unistall it. I tried and my phone now like KOO CSC, U+ apps .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's useful in many cases but some you want to run occasionally like Playstore.
I toggle that along with a couple other blocked apks on the PD MDM widget so I can turn them on and off without going opening PD.
You can also use this on the fly blocking to track down and fix issues with the phone... it's useful.

As advised above, use the ADB AppControl.
It is a handy application manager that will allow you to disable any applications and bloatware. This is a free program, but at the same time it has huge capabilities and works great with Samsung and any other devices.

Cyber.Cat said:
As advised above, use the ADB AppControl.
It is a handy application manager that will allow you to disable any applications and bloatware. This is a free program, but at the same time it has huge capabilities and works great with Samsung and any other devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use an app called CCSWE App Manager (Samsung) to disable apps and services.

airmaxx23 said:
I use an app called....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using ADB AppControl for ALL of my android devices right from my computer over the network. Not only for Samsung.
For example, I have disabled many applications on my two Android TVs and now they work much faster. In addition, it is much more convenient for me to use the application manager from my laptop, where I can delete / disable applications in some of mouse clicks.

Package disabler pro, disables anything you don't want running.

lennie said:
Package disabler pro, disables anything you don't want running.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's some apks it can't hit but it gets all the bloatware, crap like the infamous AT&T updates and hidden bloatware like the Amazon cookie that you normally can't touch.
Installation and use are simple. Create backups and store them on the SD card and/or as email attachments.
It's a valuble troubleshooting tool that has saved me from reloads. It also can completely clear app data that you can't clear in settings (presumably nulls) and thus can fix system apps that can't be fixed otherwise without a reload.
Learn where to deactivate it if need be. A flashing kernel crash warning is no joke and if you can't disable it you will be doing a reload. Haven't seen this ever happen on the 10+ though.
It's been rock solid stable using little resources and almost no battery.

Just do this
Another way is just do this ..

Question What are the non essential APKs to remove if i care about privacy or debloating?

After the fiasco of debloating so much my battery was permanently on energy saving mode and my GPS wasn't working correctly with some apps i decided to reset from factory and try again. Does anyone know more or less which apks are entirely non essential, spyware, bloat, or google stuff that can be removed?

FB, WhatsApp, Instagram, Twitter, etc are all trashware and major privacy threats.
If you insist on using them do so by browser login only.
Use Karma Firewall to lock apps down so they can't connect with the internet.
I prefer to use a package disabler as you can make changes on the fly, use it for troubleshooting and completely clear system app data with no nulls left behind.
Dependencies... many apks rely on other apks to be fully functional. Names can be misleading.
Many of the Samsung apks just sit there and do nothing unless called upon. Many smaller ones are used to modify the UI and will cripple it if removed.
I disable all cloud apks especially Google backup Transport (I don't use it for backup). I normally keep Google play Services disabled unless needed for Gmail or Playstore
Playstore disabled unless needed.
All OTA updates are always disabled to avoid rude surprises.
Bixby never runs. All MS junk never runs.
Google Firebase, all carrier, Samsung and app feedback disabled.
I have about 80 packages always disabled and about 7 that are sometimes used which include "problem" apps on my N10+'s. I have one running on Android 9, one on 10. Both are package disabled profiles are almost identical.
The Android 10 variant has over 100 more apks than the 9 variant, many of these are all essential system apks the modify the UI so it's compatible with Android 10. The result is both devices look and behave almost identically. Samsung went to a lot of trouble to make Android 10 functional, don't undermine this by blinding disabling apks as the results will be less than optimum
What's also interesting is the Android 10 variant gets near the same or better battery life as the 9 variant. Those additional Samsung system apps impact on battery life are not perceivable.
Play with it, each device, user needs and setup are unique. One size does not fit all. You need to learn what's best for you on that particular variant. Fun times...

blackhawk said:
FB, WhatsApp, Instagram, Twitter, etc are all trashware and major privacy threats.
If you insist on using them do so by browser login only.
Use Karma Firewall to lock apps down so they can't connect with the internet.
I prefer to use a package disabler as you can make changes on the fly, use it for troubleshooting and completely clear system app data with no nulls left behind.
Dependencies... many apks rely on other apks to be fully functional. Names can be misleading.
Many of the Samsung apks just sit there and do nothing unless called upon. Many smaller ones are used to modify the UI and will cripple it if removed.
I disable all cloud apks especially Google backup Transport (I don't use it for backup). I normally keep Google play Services disabled unless needed for Gmail or Playstore
Playstore disabled unless needed.
All OTA updates are always disabled to avoid rude surprises.
Bixby never runs. All MS junk never runs.
Google Firebase, all carrier, Samsung and app feedback disabled.
I have about 80 packages always disabled and about 7 that are sometimes used which include "problem" apps on my N10+'s. I have one running on Android 9, one on 10. Both are package disabled profiles are almost identical.
The Android 10 variant has over 100 more apks than the 9 variant, many of these are all essential system apks the modify the UI so it's compatible with Android 10. The result is both devices look and behave almost identically. Samsung went to a lot of trouble to make Android 10 functional, don't undermine this by blinding disabling apks as the results will be less than optimum
What's also interesting is the Android 10 variant gets near the same or better battery life as the 9 variant. Those additional Samsung system apps impact on battery life are not perceivable.
Play with it, each device, user needs and setup are unique. One size does not fit all. You need to learn what's best for you on that particular variant. Fun times...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The easy stuff to remove are those bloat crap, its the other background stuff that worries me, THAT is the stuff that you never know how important it is or it could be some background data collection i wanna get rid of. I removed all google services and some apps didn't want to update anymore (did some just use google services even without an account to update?)
From what i understand Bixby is security related, and a lot of it is required to keep the device functioning, however i never used its features and i believe them to be somewhat privacy intruding, same with find my devices and such. That's why any help on a list would be appreciated.
I dont suppose you would also happen to know what's a good browser for the phone? i was using Firefox then DuckDuckGo then Brave but from my understanding there's little difference between them.
At least now i learnt my lesson, next time im just buying a phone compatible with /e/OS or lineage.

hahaNSAgoBRRRR said:
The easy stuff to remove are those bloat crap, its the other background stuff that worries me, THAT is the stuff that you never know how important it is or it could be some background data collection i wanna get rid of. I removed all google services and some apps didn't want to update anymore (did some just use google services even without an account to update?)
From what i understand Bixby is security related, and a lot of it is required to keep the device functioning, however i never used its features and i believe them to be somewhat privacy intruding, same with find my devices and such. That's why any help on a list would be appreciated.
I dont suppose you would also happen to know what's a good browser for the phone? i was using Firefox then DuckDuckGo then Brave but from my understanding there's little difference between them.
At least now i learnt my lesson, next time im just buying a phone compatible with /e/OS or lineage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What OS version are you using?
Bixby can be wiped, however Bixby Vision and Bixby Vision Framework are used with the cam to read QR codes though. You have to test to see if more of Bixby is needed for QR codes. I don't use this feature. The Bixby eula is a *****.
Knox are the Samsung security apps. They ones I can disable cause no harm, not sure if that holds true with all of them though. I do not disable knox attestation com.
Knox is a default system Administrator on stock Samsung's. No idea what disabling that will do... be careful. Samsung Pass is also a default system Administrator. I leave these alone.
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blackhawk said:
What OS version are you using?
Bixby can be wiped, however Bixby Vision and Bixby Vision Framework are used with the cam to read QR codes though. You have to test to see if more of Bixby is needed for QR codes. I don't use this feature. The Bixby eula is a *****.
Knox are the Samsung security apps. They ones I can disable cause no harm, not sure if that holds true with all of them though. I do not disable knox attestation com.
Knox is a default system Administrator on stock Samsung's. No idea what disabling that will do... be careful. Samsung Pass is also a default system Administrator. I leave these alone.
View attachment 5475479
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SM-A325M. Dunno what the M stands for, its the southamerican market one. Sadly reading QR codes is something i will have to do. Although i dont know how intrusive or concerning Bixby might be regarding privacy. I know that Knox is all just security related but i always enjoyed to remove the features i wasn't gonna use. Sadly the harder parts to remove are the things that start with samsung and are necessary for some things to work.

OS version Android 9,10 or 11?
The goal is to remove only the trouble makers not damage the functionality or usability of your phone.
Even after 2 years I'm still exploring my N10+. If the feature has been arbitrary blocked you'll never know it was there and/or it may cause erratic behavior with other apps.

blackhawk said:
OS version Android 9,10 or 11?
The goal is to remove only the trouble makers not damage the functionality or usability of your phone.
Even after 2 years I'm still exploring my N10+. If the feature has been arbitrary blocked you'll never know it was there and/or it may cause erratic behavior with other apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
11. Yeah, i dont remember what you did say, its just that im a guy that really likes the simple things on a phone. Yeah im THAT kind of guy that sometimes wonders if there's an use to a phone to begin with.
To make things a lot simpler is there any way to check which apps use data or send info back to google or samsung or log my activity for example?

Im also noticing after setting back to factory settings that the phone keeps showing me a notification to copy and paste data from the previous phone using smart switch, OR log in to google. I do not want to log in to google at all and while this notification does not prevent me from doing anything is there a way to stop the phone from constantly asking me this?

Hi guys,
Anyone know what's the best package disabler to use?
Thanks

Jaysmith696 said:
Hi guys,
Anyone know what's the best package disabler to use?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally use ADB.

It is much easier to block Internet access of apps you don't trust than removing them with the risk of breaking your system. Use NetGuard if your not rooted, or AFWall if you are or need to use VPN.

Jaysmith696 said:
Hi guys,
Anyone know what's the best package disabler to use?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this.

appmanager.apk

How to stop Google from disabling already installed apps "for our protection"?

My Google Play Protect is turned OFF - yet Handcent Next SMS app was disabled from my phone as well as everyone else's recently. Why Google did it is a separate story [issue has apparently been resolved with a new version of app] - but let's talk about how Google does this?
I manually reinstall the old .apk which reactivates the app, but Google nukes it within 24 hours.
What can be done to stop Google from doing this?
If you feel that Google should do this 'for our protection,' I respect your opinion, but this thread isn't about that. What can be done in Settings to prevent / stop Google from disabling an already installed app on our phones? This is not about the Play Store. It's about already installed apps on our phones. Play Protect is OFF.
There are reasons people want older versions of apps - such as features no longer available on new versions of a given app.

Disable all Google apps that are set as System Administrator including Find my Device, etc.
Disable Google play Services when not needed.
If Google play Services in enabled on a reboot it will trigger that type of behavior.
This may or may not work on a non Samsung device. Google apks are drooling pigs... and only getting worse.

Thank your for your reply. Phone is unlocked Samsung Galaxy S10e.
It sounds like the suggestion is to disable a plethora of apps and services that would have the end result of transfroming the phone into more or less a device that doesn't use anythig Google, even services that we actually may need..
Is there an app that could accomplish this, I mean all that's needed is to block disabling one single app.
I don't need to password protect usage or anything else - just prevent anything from disabling the app / removing it. Thank you.
Can I do anything to lay a trap so that we could see the mechanism which Google uses to disable an already installed app on your phone - it's not Play protect, It's OFF on my phone.
I mean, I will eventually start looking for another app - it's not really about that - but I mean think about it, do you really want them to disable your apps, with *no warning*, no *hey we've discovered a security issue, you might want to be aware of* - instead they just nuke an app we've used for like a decade, no explanation, just because they feel it's good for us, I mean are we in China? Or worse yet, Russia?
Anyone else bothered by this? I'd just like to see if anyone knows a way for us to have a choice, that's all.

8
c627627 said:
Thank your for your reply. Phone is unlocked Samsung Galaxy S10e.
It sounds like the suggestion is to disable a plethora of apps and services that would have the end result of transfroming the phone into more or less a device that doesn't use anythig Google, even services that we actually may need..
Is there an app that could accomplish this, I mean all that's needed is to block disabling one single app.
I don't need to password protect usage or anything else - just prevent anything from disabling the app / removing it. Thank you.
Can I do anything to lay a trap so that we could see the mechanism which Google uses to disable an already installed app on your phone - it's not Play protect, It's OFF on my phone.
I mean, I will eventually start looking for another app - it's not really about that - but I mean think about it, do you really want them to disable your apps, with *no warning*, no *hey we've discovered a security issue, you might want to be aware of* - instead they just nuke an app we've used for like a decade, no explanation, just because they feel it's good for us, I mean are we in China? Or worse yet, Russia?
Anyone else bothered by this? I'd just like to see if anyone knows a way for us to have a choice, that's all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm also very much bothered by it. Like, on my older phone google just outright disabled the font manager app, that was a system/vendor app. What risk would that app would pose, if it was risky it surely wouldn't be pre-installed! Moreover it was just a font manager!!!

Gmh rafi said:
8
I'm also very much bothered by it. Like, on my older phone google just outright disabled the font manager app, that was a system/vendor app. What risk would that app would pose, if it was risky it surely wouldn't be pre-installed! Moreover it was just a font manager!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The app may have been compromised. Scan the apk with online Virustotal.
Google on the other hand has long been compromised
Blocking Playstore with Karma Firewall will stop this behavior.

blackhawk said:
The app may have been compromised. Scan the apk with online Virustotal.
Google on the other hand has long been compromised
Blocking Playstore with Karma Firewall will stop this behavior.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It isn't about if the app was compromised or not, it's just that google doesn't give us the choice. That's what iritates me. Just as @c627627 said, isn't it more like china or Russia? Dictating without our consent.

blackhawk said:
The app may have been compromised. Scan the apk with online Virustotal.
Google on the other hand has long been compromised
Blocking Playstore with Karma Firewall will stop this behavior.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anyway, karma is the best firewall after all

Gmh rafi said:
Anyway, karma is the best firewall after all
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's great. My one Note 10+ is still running on Pie. Karma's logging feature is fully active in that version. Even tags/time stamps each app that connects. That functionality was lost with Android 10☹ It still will block but it greatly reduces its use for fast troubleshooting.
One reason I still run Pie.
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I would still scan that app to be on the safe side. I use ApkExport to make installable copies of all my apps and updates and take Playstore out of the loop. This protects those apps is case of bad upgrades or deletion from Playstore. Makes reloading much faster and no guessing/searching.

I have discovered [the hard way] how to successfully deal with this.
Fact: Turning OFF Google Play Protect does not turn OFF Google Play Protect. Google *will* scan and disable anything it wants using Play Protect, *regardless* of whether your Play Protect is ON or OFF.
Play Protect OFF button is there as an illusion that you have a choice, you do not. Your phone may have any app disabled any time by Google... for your protection of course. For our protection.
Now here's the correct way to do this:
Google Play Store > [upper right corner] Tap your name icon > Play Protect >
You will see your disabled app listed, with two options:
Uninstall
and
Enable app
The *only* correct way to re-enable it, is to TAP on Enable App here > Enable [to confirm.]
Doing anything else, such as uninstalling/reinstalling/manually installing an .apk file will only _temporarily_ work.
Google will disable it again, 24 hours or so later...
So you must follow exact procedure above to Enable App if you wish to continue to use it, after it has been flagged by Google Play Protect.
Being able to re-enable it is a big deal. You don't get to do that in China or Russia so tank you Google for giving us this choice.

c627627 said:
I have discovered [the hard way] how to successfully deal with this.
Fact: Turning OFF Google Play Protect does not turn OFF Google Play Protect. Google *will* scan and disable anything it wants using Play Protect, *regardless* of whether your Play Protect is ON or OFF.
Play Protect OFF button is there as an illusion that you have a choice, you do not. Your phone may have any app disabled any time by Google... for your protection of course. For our protection.
Now here's the correct way to do this:
Google Play Store > [upper right corner] Tap your name icon > Play Protect >
You will see your disabled app listed, with two options:
Uninstall
and
Enable app
The *only* correct way to re-enable it, is to TAP on Enable App here > Enable [to confirm.]
Doing anything else, such as uninstalling/reinstalling/manually installing an .apk file will only _temporarily_ work.
Google will disable it again, 24 hours or so later...
So you must follow exact procedure above to Enable App if you wish to continue to use it, after it has been flagged by Google Play Protect.
Being able to re-enable it is a big deal. You don't get to do that in China or Russia so tank you Google for giving us this choice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Blocking Google Playstore with Karma Firewall will probably stop it.
I have some apps long gone from Playstore, it ignores them if it runs. I don't know... maybe time to scan those apps you have getting wacked off with Virustotal, again.
They may have been compromised.
I always keep backup installable copies of all my apps for reloads or in case something else goes south.

Thanks for this but, in my case, a certain app has parts of its features stop working and THEN play protect disables it all. If I enable it in play protect section then some features are missing, until I uninstall the app and reinstall. But then I face the same issue with play protect slowly dismantling my app and the finally disabling it.
I wondered, what if I enable it once I get the prompt in play protect section then just install the app again without uninstalling it. Would that work without play protect disabling it again?

Question Can I avoid forced Android 12 update from Samsung?

There are things I don't want about update, and things I don't want to lose with update. I have postponed every time it asks, but Samsung says I can only postpone 2 more times. Is there any way to avoid this?

Package disable this app.
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blackhawk said:
Package disable this app.
View attachment 5581443
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but a little concerned about the process, removing all accounts, control, etc. Any other way to do this?

kat3k said:
Thanks, but a little concerned about the process, removing all accounts, control, etc. Any other way to do this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Disabling just that app only stops the firmware updates. My stock N10+ is running on Pie for example.

blackhawk said:
Disabling just that app only stops the firmware updates. My stock N10+ is running on Pie for example.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For the setup process did you have to remove all google accounts (and then reinstall after), connect phone to pc, debug, etc? Description of app sounded a little daunting. Do you think there's anything risky? I really DO NOT want to install the next android version, and am running out of time. Can't believe they're going to force it on me, so definitely want a workaround. Thanks for your help.

I use Package Disabler.
A adb edit can also be used.
Neither require removing Google accounts!

My personal method for disabling apps is by using this code in ADB
(assuming ADB is already setup and you have USB debugging enabled):
adb shell pm disable-user **ENTER.PACKAGE.NAME.HERE**
I personally use MiXplorer app, open menu on the left side, choose App then
search update; tap on what looks like the correct app and see the package
name. Each carrier may use different packages.
For me on my Huawei P30 Pro the complete command would look like this:
adb shell pm disable-user com.huawei.android.hwouc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I think adb is a little beyond me. I will give Package Disabler a try. This is what it says on its app page about removing Google acct, etc:, which I wondered if you had to do:
** No Rooting required **
** You will have to remove all google accounts temporarily to activate this app then you can add back your accounts**
** You will need to connect your device to PC once and run a command as listed below**
** Uninstall within few hours to get automatic refund, if you are not happy with the app**

Enable developer options
Open developer options and disable auto update system
Open software update and disable auto download
No adb or paid garbage required.

twistedumbrella said:
Enable developer options
Open developer options and disable auto update system
Open software update and disable auto download
No adb or paid garbage required.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, that will disable the auto update, but what about the forced update after a certain number of postponements, different than auto?

kat3k said:
OK, that will disable the auto update, but what about the forced update after a certain number of postponements, different than auto?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not 100% sure it will stop the clock once it's already ticking. I've never gotten that far. I do know it will prevent it from trying to update, though. Any update with those settings has to be manually checked. I don't even get notice when they're available.

kat3k said:
OK, that will disable the auto update, but what about the forced update after a certain number of postponements, different than auto?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Disable the app I showed you that should hopefully kill it...
Clearing the system cache apparently does not clear the download.
If it loads and upgrades the bootloader, you're boned.

PROBLEM: When I try to buy in playstore, it says transaction declined. I did read in one of the reviews that google has some kind of problem with license, surely political., although it still appears in playstore - can't get it. Is there any other way to get/buy/install the app?

kat3k said:
PROBLEM: When I try to buy in playstore, it says transaction declined. I did read in one of the reviews that google has some kind of problem with license, surely political., although it still appears in playstore - can't get it. Is there any other way to get/buy/install the app?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A lot of apps get suspended for political reasons, but this one was legitimate. That said, if you are sure it's what you want, you can buy it on their website. It's the first Google result for "Package Disabler" but make sure to get what you want done as soon as you buy it. One of the big things that led to the app being removed was the developer revoking licenses to force additional purchases.

twistedumbrella said:
A lot of apps get suspended for political reasons, but this one was legitimate. That said, if you are sure it's what you want, you can buy it on their website. It's the first Google result for "Package Disabler" but make sure to get what you want done as soon as you buy it. One of the big things that led to the app being removed was the developer revoking licenses to force additional purchases.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. It's on my list of things to do today. I did go to the site, and am slightly reluctant to use credit card, no paypal option even. I feel a lot more comfortable buying through playstore, not to mention the price on developer site is 5 british pounds, over $7 US. Wouldn't mind the price if it does what I want. Looks like a very complicated process from buying through activating. We'll see. It's a good lead for sure and I appreciate the input.

Before going the package disabler route, I've gone into developer options and have disabled automatic software update and am at the point of "stopping" the software update active app, but get a message saying the app cannot be stopped safely, so I'm still undecided. While looking around, I triggered one more software update postponement, so am down to one. Do you think it's safe to stop the software update in spite of the warning? I think it might help, or it might just reload next time phone is started.

kat3k said:
Before going the package disabler route, I've gone into developer options and have disabled automatic software update and am at the point of "stopping" the software update active app, but get a message saying the app cannot be stopped safely, so I'm still undecided. While looking around, I triggered one more software update postponement, so am down to one. Do you think it's safe to stop the software update in spite of the warning? I think it might help, or it might just reload next time phone is started.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best stop screwing around or it will make the decision for you... that update app is insidious and acts more like malware. It has just about every permissions there is.
If you don't package block it, don't be surprised if it supersedes your settings

blackhawk said:
Best stop screwing around or it will make the decision for you... that update app is insidious and acts more like malware. It has just about every permissions there is.
If you don't package block it, don't be surprised if it supersedes your settings
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Agreed, just a little scared of package disabler/app site/credit card info, but getting close

kat3k said:
Agreed, just a little scared of package disabler/app site/credit card info, but getting close
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've used it at least 3 times over the years. MC and Visa purchases in the US are insured and for 5 bucks I don't sweat it.
That update app is a ball buster, I hate it. It's caused me more trouble than any Android malware has in the last 8 years

Question Anyone using the new Pixel 7/pro VPN? Thoughts? Input?

I thought about using this but I assumed it was going to destroy my battery life. Is this going to allow Google to spy on us anymore just the same amount while preventing others from spying on us?

I think it's useful to have it when you connect to open security WiFi networks like hotels, restaurants, airports, or whatsoever. Completely pointless at home or in a 4G network.
Privacy-wise, I'm not worried. I have a phone made by google, with all the google services installed on it. I have my photos, contacts, SMS, in a cloud hosted by google. I use a browser built by google. I know it's not the best decision, but it's comfortable for me. The point is, if google wants any information about me, they will have it, no matter if I use their VPN or not. If i don't want my personal data on google servers, I'd start by not purchasing a Pixel phone, or purchasing it to install GrapheneOS on it.

Schroeder09 said:
I thought about using this but I assumed it was going to destroy my battery life. Is this going to allow Google to spy on us anymore just the same amount while preventing others from spying on us?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It absolutely will allow them to track you more! Without their VPN they could only see network connections directed to THEIR servers. Now they get to know EVERYTHING you connect to.
By advice if you want to use a free VPN that is anonymous and secure, is to use TOR via Orbot. It is a little slower than you would normally see, but not unreasonably so.

allweknowisa said:
I think it's useful to have it when you connect to open security WiFi networks like hotels, restaurants, airports, or whatsoever. Completely pointless at home or in a 4G network.
Privacy-wise, I'm not worried. I have a phone made by google, with all the google services installed on it. I have my photos, contacts, SMS, in a cloud hosted by google. I use a browser built by google. I know it's not the best decision, but it's comfortable for me. The point is, if google wants any information about me, they will have it, no matter if I use their VPN or not. If i don't want my personal data on google servers, I'd start by not purchasing a Pixel phone, or purchasing it to install GrapheneOS on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, pretty much the only option for secure phones is Pixel + GrapheneOS. Every other vendor rams the same google crap down your throat, but worse, they don't let you delete it, and they add in THEIR OWN spyware.
Google has been engaging in some very questionable activities, politically, for quite a while now. I definitely wouldn't trust them with ANYTHING. The latest is a $13 million fund for phoney "fact checkers" (which as every intelligent person knows, are just propaganda pushers). Source: https://www.rebelnews.com/google_and_youtube_announce_13_million_grant_into_fact_checking_fund

The details of the VPN and logging policy are available here https://one.google.com/about/vpn/howitworks
The results of a 3rd part independent audit are here https://compliance.ioxtalliance.org/products/143
The reference implementation source code of the Google VPN is here https://github.com/google/vpn-libraries
I suggest you read the details and make an informed decision using the available data. I'm not advocating for/against this service, but I will say that it is a far better option than your ISP or mobile network or any public network.

craigacgomez said:
The details of the VPN and logging policy are available here https://one.google.com/about/vpn/howitworks
The results of a 3rd part independent audit are here https://compliance.ioxtalliance.org/products/143
The reference implementation source code of the Google VPN is here https://github.com/google/vpn-libraries
I suggest you read the details and make an informed decision using the available data. I'm not advocating for/against this service, but I will say that it is a far better option than your ISP or mobile network or any public network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with you. It's not about just going and making pointless arguments.

Actually
96carboard said:
It absolutely will allow them to track you more! Without their VPN they could only see network connections directed to THEIR servers. Now they get to know EVERYTHING you connect to.
By advice if you want to use a free VPN that is anonymous and secure, is to use TOR via Orbot. It is a little slower than you would normally see, but not unreasonably so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually allwenowisa is right. The Google apps track all kinds of stuff. Even if they don't track the information they can find if you use googled VPN, if they wanted to, they could simply add that too. And if they decide that they do want that information from 5he VPN, they most likely WILL add it to the information already collected by the Google apps. So if you buy Google's phone and run Google's operating system and all off Google's app, figure they know everything or at least everything that they care about and the only reason they don't care about the rest is because they have not yet figured out a way to monetize it.

Well I have comments for this. Some of people will say google and vpn no trust. But for me integrated free vpn feature which does job is big plus. I was waitting to try it. Yes no ads blocking but always you can use web browsing with addons. For security on open networks, caffee, hotels etc., well done Google. If I'm correct similar feature available for iPhone as well for while.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}

It is likely a better option than other free VPNs for those unable or unwilling to pay for a service. Still showing as a Premium Service on my P7P. At any rate, I will stay with Proton.

Would rather continue using my paid VPN. I know they have zero logs and no IP tracking. I wouldn't trust Google in the slightest to not be logging and tracking whatever you use a VPN for.

Tool Belt said:
It is likely a better option than other free VPNs for those unable or unwilling to pay for a service. Still showing as a Premium Service on my P7P. At any rate, I will stay with Proton.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had to go back to stable to get the VPN feature. Was on latest beta en my 7 was on stable got the VPN option right away. On my 7pro I was still not showing so decided to go back to stable and it showed up right away.

96carboard said:
Unfortunately, pretty much the only option for secure phones is Pixel + GrapheneOS. Every other vendor rams the same google crap down your throat, but worse, they don't let you delete it, and they add in THEIR OWN spyware.
Google has been engaging in some very questionable activities, politically, for quite a while now. I definitely wouldn't trust them with ANYTHING. The latest is a $13 million fund for phoney "fact checkers" (which as every intelligent person knows, are just propaganda pushers). Source: https://www.rebelnews.com/google_and_youtube_announce_13_million_grant_into_fact_checking_fund
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GrapheneOS is not the only Option, search for eOS

Is the vpn country restricted?
I'm using the phone in oman, basically an unsupported country. I get the option but when it connects it fails saying that "vpn is disabled. Sign in or check your subscription status"

hubono said:
Is the vpn country restricted?
I'm using the phone in oman, basically an unsupported country. I get the option but when it connects it fails saying that "vpn is disabled. Sign in or check your subscription status"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is restricted

Tool Belt said:
It is likely a better option than other free VPNs for those unable or unwilling to pay for a service. Still showing as a Premium Service on my P7P. At any rate, I will stay with Proton.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, sticking with VPN.ac

Beefheart said:
Would rather continue using my paid VPN. I know they have zero logs and no IP tracking. I would trust Google in the slightest to not be logging and tracking whatever you use a VPN for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. The one I’ve used for years on all my devices works just fine

pflatlyne said:
Actually
Actually allwenowisa is right. The Google apps track all kinds of stuff. Even if they don't track the information they can find if you use googled VPN, if they wanted to, they could simply add that too. And if they decide that they do want that information from 5he VPN, they most likely WILL add it to the information already collected by the Google apps. So if you buy Google's phone and run Google's operating system and all off Google's app, figure they know everything or at least everything that they care about and the only reason they don't care about the rest is because they have not yet figured out a way to monetize it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So run a google-free operating system on it.

Gerr1 said:
GrapheneOS is not the only Option, search for eOS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
eos is not an option. They're just replacing google with microg and swapping out a few of the default AOSP applications with their own. No hardening to speak of.

hubono said:
Is the vpn country restricted?
I'm using the phone in oman, basically an unsupported country. I get the option but when it connects it fails saying that "vpn is disabled. Sign in or check your subscription status"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am getting the same message, but I'm in the US.

hubono said:
Is the vpn country restricted?
I'm using the phone in oman, basically an unsupported country. I get the option but when it connects it fails saying that "vpn is disabled. Sign in or check your subscription status"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have anyone managed to find any workarounds for this?
Also:
*https://support.google.com/googleone/answer/7582172#vpn_countries