I have not any prior experience with installing custom ROMs, but after trying it out (and getting stuck, and googling and finding answers) I successfully did it. Below is my home screen if anybody is curious:

I use OpenBoard for my keyboard. Unfortunately I am still dependent on Play Store since some of the apps I need can only be found there. Sometimes it feels meaningless committing to this whole thing because I’m not perfectly private; then I think this is better than using a regular iPhone or Android phone.

So far I’m liking it. I am naturally inclined to feel hesitant about using this as my main phone and plugging in a SIM since it’s custom, but I’m slowly making the transition.

Feel free to share any beginners advice or your own experience using GOS for the first time. Cheers!

  • @[email protected]
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    372 months ago

    You can use the aurora store for most of your play store need’s.

    • @[email protected]
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      182 months ago

      Should be all, its simply a frontend. I have never seen an app be “missing” so to say.

      • @[email protected]
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        122 months ago

        I was referring to features, like adding money to your account. Not that they are needed in aurora.

      • @[email protected]
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        62 months ago

        Some apps are not available in my Google store due to geoblocking. Can aurora circumvent this? Or is it a front end of the “local” google play store?

        • @[email protected]
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          52 months ago

          A reputable VPN can block this. I’m not sure if the store can solely. I don’t believe so. If your blocked for any reason you need a good VPN. ****

          • @[email protected]
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            22 months ago

            You are correct, re-loading the aurora store after shifting my vpn to the target country (and anonymous login) seems to change the aurora storefront too :)

      • @[email protected]
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        32 months ago

        Nah, I prefer F-droid wherever I can. The mentioning when an app has anti-features is so helpful.

        But Aurora is a great second option.