I tried to go Google-free once. Uber and Maps were a pain to live without but not impossible. Hangouts with Voice integration has me absolutely hooked. If someone could tell me where I could get a replacement that:

- Works on all devices (web, desktop, phone)

- Supports IM but also traditional SMS/MMS

- Supports video calls but also traditional voice calls

- Is free to use

- Is a single app

I could probably do it but until then I just take my hat off to those that manage it.

Skype.

The easiest way: Buy a Chinese phone

But then you're just trading one surveillance state for another.

I can't wait for open-source devices.