I was also confused for a moment due to the way my Lemmy client shows it, but op has actually linked two articles, one from 2022 and one more recent.

“outside those that are blocked”. There’s a set of apps which are blocked, the “inside” apps. Apps outside that set can be sideloaded.

I am using the OwnTracks app on Graphene OS via http and it’s working well so far, but I only set it up very recently.

I installed with obtanium and it doesn’t need any play services, Graphene’s location service works fine.

I am using a different back end though, GeoPulse not Reitti. Still evaluating the different choices, I will probably try Reitti as well.

I love mine, I’ve had it since around 2013 and it’s been used daily the entire time. I’ve only had to replace the seal once. Really a perfect bottle.