I implore you not to advise me to ditch the phone for Pixel. That’s a topic for another day. This post is about how far I can push the limits on an inherently spyware riddled Samsung. I use the Play Store for USB Audio Player (paid) and an electronic ID app required to do most payment and government related tasks here. I am not logged into Google or Samsung. Here are my apps, which I manage with Obtainium:
I have blocked most internal trackers and “dangerous” permissions/app ops with the AppManager. I have also removed all the safe and some expert level stuff with Universal Android Debloater. Any and all constructive advice is welcome! :D
Get a NewPipe fork, like Bravepipe or PipePipe. They include sponsor block built it which will enhance the viewing experience.
I would suggest using Heliboard as it includes suggestions and more options in settings.
Lastly, albeit a bit more complex, if you use a VPN, then you can install a SearxNG instance on your phone with Termux. Have your own search engine straight out of your phone. I would not suggest to do this without a VPN since you should switch your location often enough as to not be profiled. You can likely find tutorials online on how to do this. Or you can wing it if you are a Linux power user and know your way around GitHub and Terminal.