GRAPHENEOS
Banking Apps on GrapheneOS in Australia
It's the question almost everyone asks before switching: will my bank's app work? For most people the answer is yes, but not for every bank. Here's why, and how to find out for yours.
Why most banking apps work
GrapheneOS runs ordinary Android apps. Many banking apps rely on Google Play services, and on GrapheneOS Google Play can be installed as an ordinary app in a sandbox, with no special access to the system. That lets those apps run normally while Google stays walled off from the rest of your phone.
Why some don't
Some banks add a check that only allows their app on phones certified by Google, such as Google's Play Integrity “strong” check. GrapheneOS is more secure than a standard phone, but it isn't Google-certified, so those apps may refuse to open or block some features. Whether an app works can also change when the bank updates it.
How to check your bank before you switch
- Search the GrapheneOS community's app compatibility reports for your bank's app. Users regularly report which apps work.
- Ask your bank whether its app requires Google Play certification.
- Ask us. Contact us before you buy and tell us which apps you rely on.
If your banking app won't run
- Use your bank's website in the browser; most banking can be done there.
- Carry a physical card for payments, since Google Wallet tap-to-pay isn't available on GrapheneOS.
- Consider an Encrypted iPhone instead. Banking apps work normally on it, with MDM-level security enforced on the phone itself. See our Encrypted iPhone guide.
Keep your banking safe on any phone
Move banking logins off SMS codes where you can, and protect your mobile account with a PIN. Read SIM swap scams in Australia.
Thinking of switching? Read switching from iPhone to GrapheneOS, or see all our encrypted phones in Australia.
Privacy First is not affiliated with the GrapheneOS project or any bank. App compatibility can change at any time.