Summary
When we say Sidephone is de-Googled, we mean that it does not rely on Google’s services, tracking systems, or background data collection to operate. Your phone works without Google accounts, Google apps, or Google’s invisible infrastructure running in the background.
This is a deliberate design choice to keep your device simple, private, and predictable.
Overview
On a conventional smartphone, Google provides:
Google Play Services, a background system that many apps depend on for:
Location tracking
Notifications
Cloud syncing
App permissions
Advertising and analytics
Google apps, such as:
Google Play Store
Gmail
Chrome
Google Maps
Google Assistant
Data collection and profiling, including:
App usage
Location history
Search behavior
Device identifiers
Interaction patterns
Most users never see this directly, but it is always running behind the scenes.
On Sidephone, all of the above is removed or replaced.
Sidephone does not include Google’s background tracking and analytics framework. Your device is not constantly communicating with Google servers.
You do not need a Gmail address or any Google login to use your phone.
You won’t find:
Google Play Store
Google Chrome
Google Maps
YouTube
Google Assistant
Because Google services are not running, Sidephone:
Uses less battery
Runs more smoothly on simple hardware
Has fewer hidden processes you can’t control
With no Google tracking in place:
Your location is not logged unless you explicitly choose a feature that uses it
Your usage habits are not compiled into an advertising profile
Your data is not being synchronized to Google’s cloud without your consent
Even without Google, you can still:
Connect to Wi-Fi or cellular networks
Make and receive calls
Send and receive text messages
Use a variety of applications that do not require Google services to function
Access the internet through a lightweight browser (where supported)
Common Questions
Is de-Googled the same as ‘offline’?
No. Your Sidephone can still connect to networks. De-Googled means it doesn’t depend on Google’s ecosystem.
Will my phone feel different?
Yes, in a good way for many users:
Cleaner interface
Less clutter
Less distraction
More control
Less background processes
Why did Sidephone choose to be de-Googled?
We made the decision to become de-Googled and build a custom version of AOSP in order to have more control over what the hardware of Sidephone looks like, and create experiences better suited to be navigated by physical buttons.