Alt Text:
Google photos on ios is literally a hostage situation. Remove key functionalities like copying an image or editing an image unless you give them full unrestricted access to your entire photo library. (The holy grail of surveillance capitalism data). Data extortion masquerading as a service.
LineageOS has android TV builds, KDE has "Plasma Big screen" and theres a lot of cheap Android TV boxes that can be rooted and have their bloat uninstalled. Raspberry Pi's look like the go to right now, seeing you can get a Pi4 for under $40, and a cheap USB remote off eBay or aliexpress for less than $5
Also, Immich and ente
Thank you!! I didn't even consider RPi, and I'll look into LineageOS TV
Youre welcome! Another thing to consider is if you have any old desktops or (soft moddable) consoles kicking around. I have found that the Nintendo Switch makes a wonderful portable Android TV after getting homebrew on it. An old laptop or desktop could be used similarly :p
There was an LTT video last year that recommended a $20 'Onn.' (Walmart store brand) Android TV for its ability to be rooted/hacked. I bought a couple to replace my Roku, but haven't actually gotten around to messing with them yet.
If it hasn't changed/been locked down since then, I think it's a better option than a Raspberry Pi at over twice the price (you forgot the cost of the case and power supply, BTW).
The Onn. boxes have been patched and bootloader locked (see 2nd bullet point from this xda thread) unless you got one manufactured before 2024 and it was never updated past 2024. The current ones are boot loader locked and full of ad-ware
also, the Pi doesnt need a case on a budget, and you can use a spare phone charger if its got enough watts :p