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Briar — Secure messaging app for activists and journalists

Android Communication Briar Project
3.7 GP
2,430,008+
Google Play

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Description

Been using Briar for a couple months now. It’s basically a secure messaging app designed for activists, journalists, and anyone else who needs a safe way to communicate. Pretty solid app if you’re into that kinda thing.

Here’s what you do: you can send private messages, join groups, and even set up forums. There’s also built-in support for the Tor network, which keeps your info protected from surveillance. And you can sync messages even if the internet’s down – just use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or memory cards.

Look, if you’re into secure messaging and privacy, you’ll probably like this. It’s not perfect – there’s no ads but the interface is a little clunky – but overall it does the job. Worth checking out if that’s what you need.

Editor Opinion

So here's my honest take on Briar. I've tested a bunch of secure messaging apps and this one's pretty good. The no-server setup and Tor integration are big pluses if you value privacy. And the offline syncing is a really useful feature. But the UI feels a bit dated and takes some getting used to. Not a deal-breaker, but definitely room for improvement. Overall, though, it's a solid option if you need a secure way to chat.

Manya Lyalya
Author Manya Lyalya Editor, Grand Screen

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • No central server - messages sync directly between devices
  • Built-in Tor support to protect against surveillance
  • Can sync offline via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or memory cards
  • No ads or in-app purchases

Cons

  • Interface is a bit clunky and not the most intuitive
  • Syncing can be slow, especially over Bluetooth
  • Lacks some of the slick features of mainstream messaging apps

Specifications

Updated 05.03.2025
Category Communication
Age Rating Everyone
Developer Briar Project
Android Android 5.0++
Package Name org.briarproject.briar.android

Ratings

74
Google Play
3.7/5
3,753 reviews
Mixed or Average
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User Reviews

J B Oct 15, 2025

"Your Briar account is stored encrypted only on your device.." Well, I loved the idea. I installed the app and started using it, but then comes the bummer! First, I...

João Victor Oct 15, 2025

Highest security possible (no data stored in any central server, onion routing, open source code, self destructing messages, peer to peer conversation) but not for the lazy standard user, because...

Aaron Houser Oct 15, 2025

This app was developed a long time ago, it seems since then changes in Android OS have stopped this app from functioning properly. I want the app purely for offline...

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