Overview

Briar is a peer-to-peer encrypted messaging app designed for activists, journalists, and anyone who needs a safe and robust way to communicate without relying on a central server. Messages are synchronised directly between users devices, and when the internet is down Briar can still sync via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, keeping information flowing in a crisis. When online it routes through the Tor network, protecting users and their relationships from surveillance.

Key Features

• Peer-to-Peer: no central server; direct device synchronisation
• Tor Integration: anonymous messaging with censorship resistance
• Offline Sync: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi transport when internet is unavailable
• End-to-End Encryption: private conversations and forums
• No Phone Number Required: identity is a peer key

Why Use It

Briar is built specifically for high-risk environments where central chat servers are unreliable, blocked, or monitored. Because messages never touch a server, there is no third party that can be compelled to hand over metadata.

Use Cases

• Activist and journalist communication in hostile environments
• Offline group chat during network outages or disasters
• Private encrypted forums and group discussions
• Censorship-resistant messaging under restrictive regimes

Platforms

Android (Google Play, F-Droid, direct APK). Development of an iOS client is planned.

Licence

Open source. GNU General Public License (GPL).

Website

https://briarproject.org/