Here’s a list of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) messaging applications, categorized by their unique features and user base:
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1. Popular Messaging Apps with E2EE
These apps are widely used and incorporate E2EE as a core feature.
- Signal
- iMessage
- Built into Apple devices, with E2EE enabled by default for messages between Apple users.
- Supports media sharing, location sharing, and reactions.
- Platforms: iOS, macOS.
- Telegram (Secret Chats)
- Viber
2. Privacy-Focused Messaging Apps
These apps are designed with privacy as their top priority.
- Threema
- Swiss-made app with E2EE for chats, calls, and group chats.
- Does not require a phone number or email to register.
- Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows (via Web).
- Wire
- Session
- Decentralized, open-source, and privacy-focused.
- Does not require phone numbers or emails to register.
- Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux.
3. Decentralized and Open-Source Messaging Apps
These apps use decentralized networks and open-source protocols.
- Element (Matrix Protocol)
- Briar
- Designed for activists and journalists, operating over Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or the Tor network.
- No central servers; completely decentralized.
- Platforms: Android.
4. Business and Professional Messaging Apps with E2EE
These apps focus on secure communication for teams and organizations.
- Microsoft Teams
- E2EE available for one-on-one calls (not yet for group calls or chats).
- Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Web.
- Zoom
- Cisco Webex
- Offers E2EE for meetings and messaging.
- Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Web.
5. Specialty and Niche Messaging Apps
These cater to specific communities or unique use cases.
- Dust
- Messages disappear after being read and cannot be recovered.
- E2EE ensures privacy, and data is not stored on servers.
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
- Wickr Me / Wickr Pro
- Keybase
6. Social Media Platforms with E2EE Features
Some social media platforms also offer E2EE messaging features.
- Facebook Messenger
- Offers E2EE for “Secret Conversations” (must be enabled per chat).
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
- Instagram (Direct Messages)
- Testing E2EE for direct messages (not universally available yet).
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
- Snapchat
- Implements E2EE for Snaps (photos and videos), but text chats are not fully encrypted.
- Platforms: Android, iOS.
How to Choose the Right App:
- Privacy First: Signal, Session, or Threema.
- Decentralization: Element or Briar.
- Ease of Use: WhatsApp or Viber.
- Professional Use: Microsoft Teams, Wire, or Zoom.