Frequently Asked Questions

Apps & Usability

Will my Banking Apps work?

Yes. This is the most common question we get.

Thanks to the Sandboxed Google Play compatibility layer, roughly 99% of Australian banking apps (CommBank, NAB, Westpac, ANZ, Up, etc.) work perfectly.

Note: Some banks require you to enable "Exploit Protection Compatibility Mode" in the app settings, which takes 5 seconds. We include a guide in the box.

Do I need a Google Account to use the phone?

No. That is the beauty of GhostPixel. You can download apps anonymously using the Aurora Store.

However, if you want to use a Google Account for specific apps, you can log in safely knowing that Google is "Sandboxed" (trapped) and cannot see the rest of your phone data.

Can I still use WhatsApp, Spotify, Uber, and Instagram?

Yes. A GhostPixel is still an Android phone. It runs almost every app that a standard Samsung or Pixel runs. The difference is that on a GhostPixel, you decide what data those apps can access, not them.

Does "Tap to Pay" (NFC) work?

No.

 Because the operating system is unlocked to give you control, Google Pay / Google Wallet will not allow NFC payments for security reasons.

You will need to use your physical bank card for tap payments.Note: Your banking apps themselves still work for transfers/checking balances.

Does it work with Android Auto?Yes, Android Auto is now supported on GrapheneOS, but it requires the installation of the Sandboxed Google Play Services (which we guide you through).

Do Maps and GPS work?

Yes. GPS works perfectly. You can use:

  • Google Maps / Waze: (Logged out/Sandboxed) for traffic and navigation.
  • Organic Maps / OsmAnd: For completely offline, private navigation.

Does it work with Smart Watches?

  • Garmin / Withings: Yes, these usually work perfectly via the companion app (Gadgetbridge or official apps).
  • Galaxy Watch / Pixel Watch: These are harder to set up as they require deep Google integration. They can work with tinkering, but we recommend Garmin for the best privacy experience.

How do I update the software? Is it hard?

It is automatic. You do not need to plug it into a computer ever again. GrapheneOS receives Over-The-Air (OTA) security updates faster than standard Android. When an update is ready, the phone will tell you. You just tap "Reboot," and it’s done.

Security & Privacy

What is GrapheneOS?

GrapheneOS is a hardened mobile operating system focused on privacy and security.

It is used by cybersecurity experts, journalists, and high-risk individuals worldwide. It takes the Android base and strips out all the Google surveillance code, then hardens the security against hacking.

Do I need Antivirus or a Firewall?

No. Traditional antivirus is not needed on GrapheneOS. The system uses "Sandboxing," meaning if an app contains malware, it is trapped in a virtual box and cannot touch your photos, messages, or location. The Firewall is built-in—you can block internet access for any app with a single toggle.

Is this legal in Australia?

100%.

 Privacy is a right, not a crime. Using a secure device to protect your personal data, banking information, and location history is completely legal.

Shipping & Warranty

Where do you ship from?

We are based in Sydney, NSW.

We hold physical stock locally.

We do not dropship from China. We ship next day via Australia Post Express.

What is the Warranty?

All GhostPixel devices come with a 24-Month Australian Warranty against hardware defects. Google's warranty stays intact.

What if I can't figure out how to use it?

We offer Priority Email Support for all customers. Every phone also comes with a physical "Mission Brief" card in the box with a QR code linking to our Quick Start video guide. We walk you through installing the App Store, setting up the VPN, and migrating your data.

Partnerships

Tell me about the Mullvad VPN Bundle.

We are an Official Mullvad VPN reseller.

Depending on the promotion at the time of your purchase, your device may come with a pre-paid Mullvad VPN subscription. This secures your internet connection (network layer), while the GhostPixel secures your device (hardware layer). It is the ultimate privacy stack.