https://itsfoss.com/open-source-alternatives-android/

So how does that work with say the pixel camera software?

It's unfortunate that until PostMarketOS gets better support for phones like OnePlus 6, you really only have the original PinePhone. The PinePhone shares it's GPU with the Galaxy S2 (released 12 years ago). However, that OnePlus 6 support really is coming along. I still use my OnePlus7 as a bedside multimedia device and it works just fine.

I do like me some Google maps. Wait, dammit. Well I do know about openmaps.

People who really care send encrypted messages hidden in needlepoint pieces.

I did once on a nexus 5. It was a pain in the ass, but it can be done. What phones are easier to get root access (is that the proper term? Idk. I think in Canada they can't be carrier locked.)