Take Back Your Control - Android

If you use Android, it likely comes with bloatware — pre-installed apps that you do not use nor need. Worse, there are applications running in the background that constantly degrade battery life — in particular, almost all of Google services. Worst, the Android that you paid for will not be supported nor last as much as you may want it to.

In search for making my cellphone battery last longer hours, and the phone itself to last more years, I began the journey of ‘De-Googling’ my phone. This does not mean removing all Google components. To me, it means utilizing as little closed-source and power-hungry applications as possible, which apps made by big tech tend to be. My process was as follows:

Switching to an open-source OS that does not contain bloatware and major Google backends by default.
Utilizing open-source or minimal applications.
Regaining ability to use Google applications.

Here is a comparison of some of the major open-source OS that does not have tracking, and is Google free. If you use a Pixel device, it is best to use GrapheneOS. Otherwise, \/e\/ is an option that is ready to use upon installations. I personally use LineageOS for MicroG since it allows me to utilize some required Google Apps.

The very first installation is expected to be the hardest. The process should be the same regardless of what Android you use:

Backup all files: the easiest method is to directly connect your phone to your computer, and copy all files that you have. I additionally recommend going to each app and exporting any configurations that you may have (e.g. contacts, text messages, authenticator codes, etc.). I also recommend having a list of a list of apps you realistically use so that you can re-download them later.
Unlocking the bootloader: There are several existing online tutorials for unlocking the bootloader. Here is an example; despite being over 6 years old, the methodology is applicable today. You can use the developer's page to download platform tools which will be needed as you follow along any bootloader unlock video.
Once unlocked, you can follow your specific device's instructions on how to install LineageOS . However, if you want LineageOS for MicroG, which allows better 'De-Googling' while still being able to use Google applications, you should use the image file (.iso file) from MicroG's website instead of Lineage's .iso file. You will not have to install any additional files using this method.
After completing the reboot, check out F-Droid and all the interesting things LineageOS for MicroG comes with! You will find many better and ad-free alternatives to certain applications you used to use. Or you can use your backup to regain all your past files and re-download your past apps through Aurora Store (which can be downloaded through F-Droid).

It is possible to go even further and root your phone with Magisk which allows even greater customization such as significantly improved camera quality, access to call recording, and controlling how much your phone charges (e.g., to increase longevity of your battery).

In terms of alternative applications, here are a couple that I enjoy:

Aegies Authenticator : An open source two-factor authentication application.
Goodtime - Pomodoro Timer : The F-Droid version has premium services.
Joplin : Open source note-taking application that you can sync between computers and upload to the cloud.
KDE Connect : Links your phone to any other computer or phone to perform things such as: file sharing, controlling the other device, sending messages through the other device, audio play/pause depending on phone calls, and more.
KISS Launcher : Search based launcher to maximize start-ups and increase the rate by which you use your phone
Organic Maps : Maps that is better than Google Maps for jogging and biking.
OsmAnd : Google Maps alternative, especially for driving.
ProtonVPN : Free and one of the top rated VPNs.
More applications that you can find in AAA's website