cross-posted from: https://slrpnk.net/post/32733945

housemate and I are sick of smartphone AI and spyware!! looking for cheap, refurbished cellphones from the 00s

  • the problem: all models we have found run on 2G, which is rapidly being phased out by all US carriers
  • desired features: basic call and text functionality, durability, physical buttons, fits in pocket
  • als@lemmy.blahaj.zoneEnglish
    2·
    2 days ago

    I’ve been using a fairphone 4 with lineage for a bit now and have had minimal issues. It’s basically android if google got out of the way. I fully understand if you want something lower tech than that though

  • A_norny_mousse@feddit.org
    2·
    3 days ago

    FWIW (for the US American market), Nokia* are still making such phones. And there’s Doro phones. For seniors, but some of the models look fairly normal.

    But be aware: under the hood they can be running a full Android or similar OS with all the trappings.

    * just the brand name nowadays, it’s not actually the same company anymore

    • fae@slrpnk.netOP
      1·
      2 days ago

      thanks for the heads up! I definitely want the option to swap the OS

          • KhantoBlackhand@lemmy.today
            2·
            2 days ago

            Yeah, I say run GrapheneOS for the best security on android on a pixel. The next best if you want an older device is to run DeGoogled LineageOS, I use a Pixel 4a 5G and it runs superb and it’s easier to repair. It also doesn’t have the extra BS most phones have now these days. Although I do use a few more apps, defaults should suffice. (Except for messaging use Molly a android fork of Signal or XMPP)