Over recent years smartphones have become an essential part of our everyday lives. They provide users with instant access to the internet, social media, and countless other applications. While these devices have revolutionized the way we communicate and interact with the world, many argue that they also pose a significant threat to our privacy.
The evidence appears irrefutable. It’s an open secret that smartphones are constantly collecting data about their users, including their location, browsing history, and personal information. This data is often shared with third-party companies for marketing purposes or sold to data brokers who use it to build detailed profiles of individuals. For example, in 2018, it was revealed that the fitness tracking app Strava was collecting location data from its users and sharing it publicly, revealing the locations and routines of military personnel and other sensitive sites.
Let’s not forget that smartphone apps often request access to sensitive data such as contacts, messages, and camera and microphone access. While this may be necessary for certain applications, it also leaves users vulnerable to privacy breaches. For example, in 2019, it was revealed that the popular video-sharing app TikTok was collecting data from users’ clipboards, including sensitive information such as passwords and financial data.
And, if you’re still not convinced, privacy advocates have often pointed out that smartphone users (like you and I) are often unaware of the extent to which their data is being collected and shared. Many apps have complex privacy policies that are difficult to understand, and users often agree to them without fully comprehending the consequences. Heck, in many cases, we don’t even bother reading the policies before agreeing to them.
I could go on about the danger of hacking and cyberattacks etc., but I think the point has been made. However, despite the enormity of the problem, there are game changers offering a possible and practical solution.
A case in point is privacy advocate Gaël Duval. Gaël describes himself as a “software engineer by design, hacker in mind, Linux and open source advocate since 1996, entrepreneur by taste, and a musician.” Gaël is better known for creating /e/ – a “deGoogled mobile ecosystem” that focuses on privacy. That was back in 2017. Flash forward to late 2022 and Gaël has launched Murena One, an alternative smartphone for those who value their privacy and prefer not have their data auctioned off to big tech.
On the outside the Murena One appears to be like most other Android phones on the market. The Murena One comes packing an impressively crisp 6.5inch display, a dual sim for anyone who wants to use multiple numbers on the same device, a meaty 128GB expandable storage powered by 4GB RAM and three high spec rear cameras (48, 8 and 5mp) as well as a 25mp selfie camera. But its what’s under the hood that sets the Murena One apart. Once powered up you’re immediately presented with an advanced privacy setting. This includes the option to automatically block all tracking cookies, a setting to protect your location and also the option to shield your real IP address. Excellent. You can also monitor how much of your personal data is being leaked and which leaks to allow.
It’s natural to assume that, with these safeguards in place, the Murena One would struggle to download and use the many apps available on the Google App Store. Nothing could be further from the truth. During my seven day hands on test drive of the Murena One, I was able to download and use pretty much every app we wanted. The only difference was that I downloaded the apps knowing that my private details were locked in a cast iron (virtual) vault. During the test drive, I was pleased to find that the
the Advanced Privacy widget on Murena One was giving me the heads up on which apps were collecting details about me and also offering me the chance to opt out, should I choose. Similarly the Murena One’s built in browser came with ad blocking built in by default and, on investigating the settings option, I discovered an incognito mode that allowed me to browse the net in complete anonymity.
While the row over smartphones and privacy continues to shed more heat than light, it is encouraging that game changing products like the Murena One are offering a possible solution and a practical alternative to devices already on the market.
Priced at a reasonable 349€, the Murena One is a no brainer for anyone looking to protect their privacy while still enjoying all the benefits offered by smart phone technology. Go buy.
9 out of 10
