CalyxOS is a de-Googled Android from the Calyx Institute. It uses microG so many normal apps still run. microG is an open stand-in, and pieces of it still talk to Google for push and similar jobs. You also get a firewall and a kinder installer than most custom ROMs. Pixels, Fairphones, and some Motorola phones are on the list.
The project paused in 2025 and resumed official releases on 1 July 2026 with version 7.2.2.0. If you were not already on their test build, they say you need a fresh install to keep getting updates. Check the device page before you buy a phone for it. It is a reasonable daily system if you need more apps than GrapheneOS is comfortable giving Google. It is not the same sandbox.
Use it after you confirm the phone is on the current release, not a 2025 image. calyxos.org
On CalyxOS, assume microG can reach Google for push unless you disable that. That is why some apps work and why it is not GrapheneOS. After the 2026 return, a phone still on the old image is not getting patches. Flash the current release. Fairphones are the non-Pixel path people mean. Confirm the exact model on the device list. A Motorola that is not listed will not grow support because you hoped.
