[tinybear1]

The market for these must be incredibility niche. The average Joe would probably just switch to an iPhone if they want to de-google, and those who don't can probably find step-by-step instructions on how to install LineageOS without Google Services. I understand these are made for people for don't have a solid understanding of technology, but in the long run, running Android without GMS would probably require just as much troubleshooting as flashing a custom ROM.

Also, looking at the /e/ Foundation, I see that they provide a custom ROM, and I don't understand why anyone would use /e/ vs. LineageOS for microG. It appears the only thing added by forking Lineage was to preload apps, all of which are already available on F-droid.

When I saw the title, I had hoped a phone manufacturer had created a Google-free device, one that could be sold directly, without relying on a refurbished supply of three-year-old Samsung phones. The phone being sold doesn't have anything that could already be achieved via a combination of a used s9 + lineageOS.

[gremlinsinc]

Sure, as soon as I can de-apple my iPhone, and side-load apps. Apple is even worse than Google.

[LordDragonfang]

Worse for some things, inarguably better for privacy. And I say that as someone who generally shills for Google (less and less, though.