Thanks! I was also looking at this guide linked from one of the privacy communities I follow. https://www.privacyguides.org/en/mobile-phones/
I went ahead and got a pixel phone since that's what I've gotten the last few years and it's recommend. Definitely going to look into GrapheneOS. I also use my phone for work and that might have to stop soon. There's a "wall" between my personal stuff and all the Microsoft related work apps. But I know there's no way that's secure.
I read a book last year on homelessness and one focus was on extended stay hotels. In my own ignorance, I hadn't thought about them being used in place of regular housing. Because people can't qualify for mortgages or pull together a deposit for an apartment, they end up spending so much more paying week to week while having less rights and a less stable community.
After finishing the book, I remember thinking how the US is just perfectly set up to profit from desperate people. I'm really lucky and escaped poverty, but I remember my mom taking payday loans, just the overwhelming worry that came from barely having enough, and the panic attacks I had each semester of college as I cobbled together a means to pay tuition.
I'm aware, thus my last sentence about the environmental and human impact. I try to go as long as possible between phones but issues pop up (I'm sure it's by design) and I have to upgrade. I bought my current phone in late 2023. It shouldn't need replacing so soon!
I need a new phone and am on Google Fi (I know....). I went to look at the phones for sale and they are touting their AI capabilities. I should find a new service and get a phone through them, but that's research I just don't want to spend time doing. Why are electronics so terrible when it covers to environmental and human impacts?!?
*Chairdrobe.
.... I'll just put this over here with the other fire...
I think pay day loans should be illegal. They are so predatory! But I also understand the desperation. If we had a better social support system, it wouldn't be an issue. But then people wouldn't be making as much money. Can't have that.