As of last month, the Pixel 4a is no longer getting software updates, and will be missing out on Android 14.

It was a really great phone, mine still runs very well. It has a smooth, stock Android install, a headphone jack, and a perfectly positioned fingerprint scanner. My battery is still at 2/3 capacity compared to when I bought it 3 years ago.

Really wanted to try a custom ROM like Lineage, but it seems that Google Apps are a must for me. So, what should I replace my 4a with?

Currently leaning towards the Pixel 8 or 7a, especially with the rumor that Pixel 8 will have 7 years of software updates. Still, I will miss my headphone jack. But at least I’ll have quick software updates and call screening.

Edit: Pixel 4a did NOT receive the September 2023 security update, so it seems updates are definitely over.

Edit: I specifically need Google Pay since my university uses it instead of physical ID cards. Unfortunately, it has spotty support on custom ROMs, Id rather just get a new phone.

  • random65837@lemmy.worldEnglish
    13·
    1 year ago

    They’re sandboxed either way in either setting, the difference is the Play Services has privileged access normally, that doesn’t negate the sandboxing that’s happening either way. Even with GrapheneOS apps can be allowed to communicate out, all depends on their permissions. Also, Play Services aside, Google’s apps are typically userland only apps, without any special privilege. Apps have multiple ways to communicate with each other.