Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

This is a consistently updated repository of all the most Basic Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Over the past 2+ years we have fielded and answered 100’s of questions about these devices.

Please check the Q’s and A’s below, and our other resources, before reaching out with questions via support@mark37.com.

About Ghost Phones and GrapheneOS

What is GrapheneOS?

GrapheneOS is the most stable, secure and private mobile open source operating system available at this time. Learn more about GrapheneOS from their website HERE.

Why do you focus on the Google Pixel Phone? Isn’t Google evil?

Ironically, Google Pixel devices (WHICH ARE DISTINCT AND DIFFERENT THAN THE GOOGLE ANDROID OPERATING SYSTEM) are among the most secure and private phones available. The Pixel was specifically designed to be optimized for the open source mobile operating system Android (essentially the equivalent to what Linux is for laptops/desktops) and has embedded within it specific security and privacy features that simply do not exist on other devices. As such, the Google Pixel, with the open source operating system GrapheneOS, which is based on the open source Android operating system, provides optimum security and privacy.

Note, “Google Android”… or “Droid” is also built off the open source Android operating system. Google simply added their own own software and spyware and made the new system they use and install on devices closed source.

There are a few other open source mobile operating systems built off open source Android such as LineageOS and CalyxOS, however, through our testing we have found GrapheneOS to be the most secure mobile operating system available. Unfortunately, it works specifically and only on Pixel devices at this time.

If you are concerned the device will be or can be exploited at the hardware level, please read our post HERE on this topic.

What’s the difference between GrapheneOS and LineageOS?

GrapheneOS vs LineageOS Differences:

1. Focus:

• GrapheneOS is primarily focused on privacy and security, with a goal of removing Google Play Services and replacing them with MicroG. It’s designed to provide a high level of security and privacy for users.
• LineageOS, on the other hand, focuses on providing up-to-date software for devices, with a broader range of device support. While it also prioritizes security, it’s not as heavily focused on privacy as GrapheneOS.

2. Device Support:

• GrapheneOS only supports a limited number of devices, specifically Google Pixels, due to its custom memory allocator and other modifications.
• LineageOS supports a much wider range of devices, including many non-Pixel devices.

3. Google Play Services:

• GrapheneOS replaces Google Play Services with MicroG, a free and open-source implementation. This reduces the amount of data exported from the device.
• LineageOS still uses the original Google Play Services, which can lead to data export and potential privacy concerns.

4. Hardening:

• GrapheneOS is a hardened operating system, with substantial privacy and security improvements, including a custom memory allocator and other security-focused features.
• LineageOS is not a hardened operating system, and while it has some security features, it’s not designed with the same level of security and privacy in mind as GrapheneOS.

5. Update Cycle:

• GrapheneOS receives updates with a delay of around 1-2 weeks compared to the original Android updates, ensuring that security patches and fixes are applied promptly.
• LineageOS updates are typically available shortly after the original Android updates, but may not receive all the same security patches and fixes as GrapheneOS.

6. Installation Process:

• GrapheneOS has a more streamlined installation process, thanks to its focus on a limited number of devices and its automated installation scripts.
• LineageOS installation can be more complex, especially for users who need to unlock bootloaders and install custom recovery images.

In summary, GrapheneOS is designed for users who prioritize privacy and security above all else, while LineageOS is a more general-purpose Android distribution with a broader focus on device support and up-to-date software.

What is the difference between GrapheneOS and /e/os?

GrapheneOS and /e/OS are both privacy-focused Android-based operating systems, but they have different design philosophies and target users. Here are the primary differences:

1. Security vs. Usability Focus

• GrapheneOS: Prioritizes security and privacy at the highest level, making it the most hardened Android-based OS available. It removes unnecessary attack surfaces, enhances app sandboxing, and strictly limits Google dependencies.
• /e/OS: Focuses more on privacy and usability, aiming to create a de-Googled, user-friendly experience. It replaces Google services with MicroG for compatibility while maintaining ease of use.

2. Google Services & MicroG

• GrapheneOS: Does not include Google services but allows users to install sandboxed Google Play Services in an isolated environment (if needed) without compromising security.
• /e/OS: Comes with MicroG preinstalled, allowing apps dependent on Google services to work seamlessly while reducing data tracking.

3. Security Enhancements

• GrapheneOS: Implements numerous security hardening features, such as:
  • Hardened memory allocator for better exploit mitigation.
  • Enhanced app sandboxing and runtime restrictions.
  • Secure boot with verified boot enforcement.
  • Stripped-down permissions and network restrictions.
  • Stronger default settings for maximum security.
• /e/OS: While more private than stock Android, it doesn’t have the same level of security hardening as GrapheneOS.

4. Default Apps & Ecosystem

• GrapheneOS: Stays close to AOSP (Android Open Source Project), providing minimal, privacy-respecting default apps without heavy modifications.
• /e/OS: Has a custom app ecosystem, including an “e Cloud” (email, calendar, storage) and a built-in “App Lounge” (alternative app store with privacy ratings).

5. Target Audience

• GrapheneOS: Best suited for security-conscious users, journalists, activists, and those who need a hardened, privacy-first mobile OS.
• /e/OS: Aimed at everyday users who want a Google-free, privacy-respecting phone but still need convenience and compatibility.

6. Device Support

• GrapheneOS: Officially supports only Google Pixel devices due to their security features (Titan M2 chip, verified boot, hardware-backed security).
• /e/OS: Supports a wider range of devices, including older phones, making it more accessible for users with non-Pixel devices.

Conclusion

• If you prioritize maximum security and privacy with strong exploit mitigations, GrapheneOS is the better choice.
• If you want a Google-free, user-friendly experience with some compromise on security, /e/OS is a good alternative.

What Applications are installed on the device?

See the complete list HERE.

Phone Hardware Information

Will I be receiving a brand new device?

No.

We exclusively sell mint condition refurbished devices. Here’s why:

1. We’ve been trained to think that every year or 2 years we need the “new new thing”, which is entirely unnecessary. There are billions of mint condition refurbished phones and laptops in the market today whose performance more than accomplishes the needs of 95% of the consumer market.
2. Did you know that within each device there is Gold, Silver, Palladium, Platinum, Copper, Neodymium, Cobalt, Lithium, Graphite, Yttrium, Dysprosium, and other precious metals? Often overlooked, the harsh reality is that buying a brand new device creates the incentive and demand for more slave labor (mostly children) in Asia and Africa for these various precious metals used within the device itself.
3. That fancy brand new processor that provides you an unrecognizable speed boost from the prior model a year ago really just allows for Apple, Google and Microsoft to offload the aggregation, processing and computation of YOUR data to YOUR device. This means these companies now pay less to spy on you and track you all day, every day. Brilliant strategy… that only serves to save THEM money.
4. Refurbished devices cost less. In many cases, A LOT less. Like driving a new car off the lot, the value of a new device plummets within months of being purchased. This means you can pick up an extremely powerful machine in excellent condition from 1 or 2 years ago for 50+% off the cost of a new one. Most refurbished devices now also come with 3-6-12 month warranties and support as well!

What is the camera quality on the phone relative to my iPhone or current phone?

Camera functions do not change at all, simply the application that utilizes and manages the camera on the device. You’ll find the vast majority of the functions that Google has on their camera app are also used for the GrapheneOS camera app.

There are also a variety of different camera applications you can download if, for whatever reason, you want to use a different one. The “Open Camera” app found on F-Droid, for example, has some features the stock app does not.

Simply search for “alternative FOSS camera apps for android” and you can dig through various options and reviews.

Is this device compatible with my smart watch?

Likely.

Please see details on this in our post HERE.

Are there any flip phone or dumb phone options?

Unfortunately, we do not offer any as we have not found any flip phone or dumb phone options that do not run a Google or Chinese-owned closed source operating system.

I’m concerned about the radiation and EMF generated by the phone/tablet. Is there a way to minimize my exposure?

The radiation that each device puts out is relatively small. See here for details -> https://mark37.com/sar-values-and-radiation-levels-from-smart-phones/

To reduce the radiation emitted by the device, turning off the wifi on the device can help, and using a physical USBC – Ethernet cable to connect to the internet. Putting the phone in airplane mode will also help.

The vast majority of our exposure to harmful radiation is when you carry the devices on or next to your body all day every day. The radiation in the air all around us from the various towers and satellites in use is also a major issue depending on where you live. We discuss this at length here -> https://mark37.com/the-truth-about-emf-5g/

There are also various devices sold that one can put on the devices, their person or in their home which claim to reduce the radiation exposure from anything/everything around us. As there are literally dozens of such devices, we unfortunately have not had the time or resources to vet if they work or not.

If anyone is selling such a device and would like for us to test it, please reach out to support@mark37.com as we would be happy to do so!

Do you offer de-googled Pixel models that are not available for sale here?

Yes. Fill out THIS FORM and we will be back to you shortly with a quote for the specific make/model you are interested in.

Network & SIM Cards

What network (phone/text/data) service providers work with the phone?

Each phone is “Carrier Unlocked” such that any provider using the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) standard (which is all US based providers) will work. This includes, but is not limited to, AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, US Cellular, Consumer Cellular, Cricket, Google Fi, Metro PCS, Net10, PatriotMobile, PureTalk, efani, Reach Mobile, Red Pocket, Simple Mobile, Spectrum, Straight Talk, Ting, Total by Verizon, TracFone, US Mobile, Visible, Sprint and Xfinity.

Do you provide network services?

MARK37 does not sell network services.

Please read Step 1) from our Getting Started Guide for complete details, options and recommendations related to getting your network service activated on the device.

What network service providers do you recommend?

Our customers are fans of the following Mobile Virtual Network Operator’s (MVNOs… aka resellers of AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon):

• PureTalk (inexpensive, nationwide coverage)
• efani (Great if you need advanced SIM card protection)
• Patriot Mobile (reseller of all 3 major carriers)

Please read Step 1) from our Getting Started Guide for complete details, options and recommendations related to getting your network service activated on the device.

Can I keep my current phone number?

The short answer is yes. You can simply swap your SIM (Subscriber Identification Module) card from your current device to the new device once it arrives and you spend the time to get it setup and become familiar with how to use it.

Please read Step 1) from our Getting Started Guide for complete details, options and recommendations related to getting your network service activated on the device.

Does The Ghost Phone come with a SIM card?

No.

Learn everything you need to know about SIM cards HERE.

Will the device work with a dual SIM?

Yes.

A physical SIM (Subscriber Identification Module) card can be installed along with using an eSIM.

One could also use a VoIP number on the device adding additional functionality, if needed.

Will the phone work in (name a country outside the USA)?

If you have a service plan with a US based network service provider, in most cases you will be able to work with them and purchase an international plan to establish a connection while traveling internationally.

If your goal is to do the initial activation of the phone on a network outside the USA, you will need to check if the specific network service provider you hope to work with is compatible with the device, as there are 2 different technologies phones and network providers use to connect: CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access) & GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications).

We know for sure that The Ghost Phones currently work in Canada and Mexico.

For everywhere else, a simple search online for “will a Pixel __ device from the USA work on (name of foreign network provider)?” should get you the answer you’re looking for.

Migration & Data Transfer

Can I migrate my contacts? How?

Yes.

Learn how HERE.

Can I migrate my phone logs and text messages? How?

Yes.

Learn how HERE.

How do I migrate my photos and other files?

We provide detailed instructions to migrate photos and files HERE.

Will (name any app) work on The Ghost Phone?

Short answer is most all apps will work just fine on the phone.

Learn more HERE.

De-Googling & Device Compatibility

Can my current phone be De-Googled?

iPhones cannot be De-Appled.

You’re stuck in the walled garden of Apple by using the iPhone and must migrate off the iPhone if you’re looking to remove Apple from your life.

Some Google Android smart phones can be De-Googled.

Devices such as (LG, Samsung, Pixel, etc.) do have the ability of having the Google Android operating system removed and a new one installed if they are specifically “OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Unlocked”. To learn how to check for this, please reference our post HERE.

LineageOS, CalyxOS and /e/OS are some examples of open source mobile operating systems that work across a variety of devices.

We focus exclusively on the GrapheneOS operating system, however, as it has proven to be the most stable, private and secure open source mobile operating system available in the market today.

Can YOU De-Google my current phone?

The short answer is no.

We no longer provide this service as we found most customers were sending us devices that could, in fact, NOT be De-Googled resulting in unnecessary frustration, time and expense for all involved.

If you have a device you think can be De-Googled, please reference our post on how to install the GrapheneOS operating system on your device HERE.

You will find the process is much easier than you think and there are numerous videos and other tutorials on how to do this install yourself!

Shipping & Returns

Can you sell / ship outside the USA?

We currently ship outside the USA to Canada and Mexico for a premium surcharge due to the logistic of dealing with customs and support outside the USA.

As much as we would like to ship internationally, we do not do so because:

1. The process of managing shipping and the customs process/paperwork is far outside our standard process, and as such we typically charge between $150 – $250 just to cover the cost of shipping and labor to get these orders fulfilled.
2. There is also no guarantee the device received overseas will work on your local carrier network.
3. Managing support and returns becomes a logistical and costly nightmare when needed with international orders.

This being said, all hope is not lost. You have a few options:

1. Use our partner at Ameridroid who is equipped to ship internationally.
2. There are similar “de-googled” options available closer to you, and at a more affordable shipping cost, if you live in Asia, Australia or Europe. Simply search online for “de-googled GrapheneOS phones for sale in name your country“.

Once you have your hands on a phone running GrapheneOS, you can follow the various Getting Started Guides and posts we have available in our Resources section of the website to get up and running quickly.

What is your return policy?

Refund or Replace Within 90 Days of Receipt ($ 75.00 restock fee may apply)

We offer a full refund or exchange for any order received in defective or damaged condition, or missing items, within 90 days of purchase. Please contact us at support@mark37.com and we will address the issue at hand and provide you with a return shipping label if needed.

If a return and refund is requested simply because you no longer feel you are willing and able to make use of the device or transition off BigTech at this time, once the item has been returned and received in the same physical working condition as it was sent, a refund will be issued minus a $75 restocking fee.

Do you offer insurance or protection plans for the device?

Unfortunately, no.

Should the device malfunction due to no fault of your own, we are happy to provide support and/or a replacement if required within a reasonable time frame of purchase. We have found that 90% of the “my phone stopped working” support requests are due to the user: dropping the phone, using the phone without a case and hitting it on something, dropping the phone in water or leaving the phone outside in the sun to bake for an extended period of time.

These are very complex and fragile mini-computers and pieces of hardware with 100’s of components. They need to be treated accordingly! At the very least, get a case for your phone to protect your investment ASAP.

Due to the nature of us stripping the Google Android operating system off the device we are in essence voiding the warranty on and of the device. Because of this, and the fact that there simply are not enough people purchasing these types of devices yet, there are not any insurance providers willing to consider offering some sort of policy related to these devices.

We also do not have the capital or logistics team available to support, service or offer such a plan at this time ourselves.

Additional Information

I have more questions!

Check out our Resources page to see if any of your questions have already been covered.

If not, feel free to reach out to us at support@mark37.com.