Briar

What Briar is

Briar is a free messaging app for activists, journalists, and others who need communication that does not depend on a central server. Messages synchronize directly between users’ devices. Without an Internet connection, Briar can sync over Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or memory cards; with Internet access, it can synchronize through the Tor network. The app includes private messaging, public forums, and blogs. Communications between devices are end-to-end encrypted by default, contact lists are encrypted on each device, and messages are stored securely on the device rather than in the cloud. Briar Mailbox can deliver messages securely when users are online at different times. Briar runs on Android, Linux, macOS, and Windows. Android installation is available through Google Play, F-Droid, or a direct APK, while Briar Desktop supports Linux, Windows, and macOS. The desktop client has fewer functions than Android: it lacks RSS feeds, disappearing messages, nearby contact adding, Bluetooth, removable-drive connections, and Tor bridges. The maker’s July 9, 2026 update places Briar in maintenance mode, with essential security updates and bug fixes planned. The maker also identifies longstanding issues involving high battery use, unreliable Android background operation, no account backup or file attachments, and difficult contact adding and offline communication. Briar is free software under the GNU General Public License.

Who it suits

Briar suits activists, journalists, and other users who need encrypted communication that can operate without a central server. It is also useful for people who need offline synchronization options and device-local message storage across Android or desktop platforms.

Limits

Briar Desktop omits RSS feeds, disappearing messages, nearby contact adding, Bluetooth, removable-drive connections, and Tor bridges found on Android. The maker also reports no account backup or file attachments and ongoing battery and background-operation issues.

Getting started

1. Install Briar for Android through Google Play, F-Droid, or a direct APK
2. Install Briar Desktop on Linux, Windows, or macOS
3. Add contacts using an available connection method
4. Use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, memory cards, or Tor to synchronize
5. Use Briar Mailbox when contacts are online at different times

Verdict

Pick Briar for free, open-source messaging with device-to-device synchronization, offline connections, and default end-to-end encryption. Consider another tool if you need full feature parity on desktop, account backup, file attachments, or dependable Android background operation.