[proud American in Canada]

May be some privacy issues with people who log in to Pokemon Go via their Google accounts

That's what I've read as well.

However, I also read that Nintendo is coming out with some other device that doesn't require a smart phone, and doesn't give up all your personal info. I may be wrong, though.

[Drago]

You may be thinking of the “Pokemon Go Plus” device...alerts you to Pokemon & “waypoints”, etc. without having your phone in your face...still, it is a Bluetooth device connected to your phone, and would require you to “log-in” as normal. You can also just sign up at “Pokemon.com” w/your e-mail to be a “trainer” and use that account for Pokemon Go and SKIP the whole Google account sign up stuff.

Pokemon Go Plus: http://www.pokemongo.com/en-us/pokemon-go-plus/