Description

Briar is a messaging app designed for activists, journalists, and anyone else who needs a safe, easy and robust way to communicate.

Unlike traditional messaging apps, Briar doesn't rely on a central server - messages are synchronized directly between the users' devices.

If the Internet's down, Briar can sync via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, keeping the information flowing in a crisis. If the Internet's up, Briar can sync via the Tor network, protecting users and their relationships from surveillance.

You can link Briar with a device running Briar Mailbox (even on Android: https://f-droid.org/packages/org.briarproject.mailbox/) to receive encrypted messages from your contacts while Briar is offline.

Versions

Version Date Size Requires Android Download
1.5.19 current
4b0ad16aac912abe…
2026-07-15 48 MB API 21
1.5.17
8cc8f18d0c603f9e…
2026-03-15 48 MB API 21
1.5.15
4f92a1dd7c5a84f6…
2025-12-12 47 MB API 21

Permissions

What the app asks the system for. Android only grants sensitive access after you confirm it.

  • Network stateCheck whether and how the device is connected.
  • Wi-Fi stateRead information about the Wi-Fi connection.
  • Change Wi-FiTurn Wi-Fi on and off or switch networks.
  • NEARBY_WIFI_DEVICES
  • CameraTake photos and videos.
  • Internet accessSend and receive data over the internet.
  • Run at startupStart automatically after the device is switched on.
  • FingerprintUnlock with a fingerprint.
Show 11 more permissions
  • VibrationControl the vibration alert.
  • Prevent sleepingKeep the device from going to sleep.
  • Write storageCreate and change files on the device storage.
  • NotificationsShow notifications.
  • HIDE_OVERLAY_WINDOWS
  • BluetoothConnect to Bluetooth devices.
  • BLUETOOTH_ADMIN
  • Bluetooth scanSearch for nearby Bluetooth devices.
  • Bluetooth connectionConnect to paired Bluetooth devices.
  • BLUETOOTH_ADVERTISE
  • Read storageRead files on the device storage.

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