Google Messaging app issues

[berberloo]

I'm really bothered that Samsung is doing away with their messaging app and going to Google. I stay away from all things Google and am wondering what app I will be using. Any idea why this is happening?

[Robin621k]

My favorites!

[CEParsons]

Open source simply means anyone can view the source code. Yes, it is well established that AOSP is open source (it's literally in the name and you can go look at exactly what is in the Android source code.)

This is completely and utterly irrelevant when it comes to avoiding Google data collection if you are using an Android device with a permanently locked bootloader.

Unless you have unlocked your bootloader (tripping Knox) and flashed a de-googled ROM, there is absolutely no viable way around using Play Services which collects and transmits metadata/location data related to your various on-device activities, regardless of what non-Google apps you use.

Even if you use a "fake Google account," that is only used to download apps, that account will be used to collect and transmit your very real metadata.

Given your severe aversion to Google apps and services, I would highly recommend that you consider looking into de-googled devices.

[CEParsons]

While you can restrict various privacy settings, you cannot opt out of Google data collection (your primary concern) via GMS (Play Services) because your device requires it for core functionality.

To disable GMS, you must unlock the bootloader and flash a de-Googled custom ROM that disables GMS while making the necessary modifications to preserve core functionality.

Doing this trips Knox.

It is not possible to fully unroot a Samsung device because the Knox fuse physically blows when you unlock the bootlader/root it.

[-CROW-]

I have detailed several strategies to minimize Google's data collection, enabling individuals to select their preferred methodology.
Additionally, it is indeed feasible to disable Google Messages and opt for a third-party SMS application.
It is advisable to deactivate "Android System Intelligence" monitoring.
To prevent messages from being audibly read, adjust the accessibility settings.
Please disable automatic backup.
For communications of a sensitive nature, the implementation of End-to-End Encryption (E2EE) is recommended.
Device rooting is not a prerequisite.

[CEParsons]

Respectfully, you are engaging in goalpost shifting here.

Are you willing to concede that telling users they can 'simply unroot' a Samsung device without consequence is dangerous misinformation that could permanently trip the Knox fuse and damage their device's functionality?

[ShaydeAngel]

Knox wouldn't even let my kid root his older phone A15. The boot loader was locked down .

So how this person was able to do it with out tripping knox makes it not so believable.

[-CROW-]

Only on certain devices and software versions, not all Samsung devices. In older scenarios, some devices showed 0*0 in download mode despite the custom binary status, but for new devices, this is not applicable.
Since I gave an answer in general without talking about a certain device, please clarify exactly what we are talking about so we don't need to go back and forth on this matter.
Also, are you willing to concede that telling users they have to unlock the bootloader and flash a de-Googled custom ROM to disable Google Messages is dangerous misinformation that could permanently damage some devices, especially newer ones, when they don't really need to?

[CEParsons]

Respectfully, you have now pivoted to strawmanning.

At no point did I suggest that users must root their devices to disable the Google Messages app.

You don't genuinely believe that anyone here is talking about devices that are a decade past end-of-life. No currently supported Samsung phone lacks Knox hardware.


Yes or no: Are you willing to concede that telling a modern Samsung user they can 'simply unroot' is dangerous misinformation that causes permanent, physical damage to the Knox fuse?

[-CROW-]

I have provided a response to your inquiry. I kindly request that you address my question as well. Should I not receive a reply, this will conclude our correspondence. Thank you and have a productive day.

[CEParsons]

I will certainly oblige.

My official position is that rooting and/or unlocking the bootloaders of Samsung devices is NOT recommended.

Users who do not want to be tracked by GMS should not use Samsung devices.