Briar 1.2: A New Release of the Private and Decentralized Messenger
Briar is a messaging app designed for activists, journalists, and anyone who needs a secure, simple, and reliable way to communicate. Unlike traditional messaging platforms like email, Twitter, or Telegram, Briar does not rely on a central server—messages are synchronized directly between users’ devices.
If the internet is down, Briar can synchronize messages via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, ensuring continuous operation during crises. When the internet is available, Briar can synchronize through the Tor network, protecting users and their contacts from surveillance.
What’s New in This Release
This release allows users to safely add each other as contacts by exchanging links. Previously, users had to meet in person or ask a mutual contact for an introduction.
Most messengers upload your contact list to a server to help you find friends. Since Briar is designed to protect metadata, it uses the Tor network to connect directly and securely to the person you’re adding, without revealing your contact list to anyone.
For technical details, see the Bramble Rendezvous protocol documentation.
Design and Support
The design and testing of this feature were carried out by Ura Design. Development was supported by the Open Technology Fund.
Briar has received funding from organizations including Small Media, Open Internet Tools Project, Access, Open Technology Fund, Prototype Fund, and Internews.
Official Resources
- Official website: https://briarproject.org/
- Download from Google Play
- Download from F-Droid
- Channel: @DrHerbertWest