Briar is a free open-source messenger for people who want private conversations, including when internet access fails.1 It connects devices directly instead of depending on a central messaging server.2 It is worth considering as a spare communication channel for a trip, a community group, or friends preparing for disruption.
Last checked October 28, 2026.
At a glance
- What it is: A messenger with end-to-end encryption and local message storage.1
- Works on: Android 5.0 or newer; a separate desktop beta supports Linux, Windows and macOS.45
- Price: Free.1
- Licence: Android app: GNU GPL v3.0 or later.4
- Best for: People willing to prepare a private backup channel together.
- Official site: briarproject.org
What Briar does and how it protects your privacy
Briar synchronizes messages between users’ devices over Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or, online, the Tor network.2 Tor routes internet connections through a network designed to protect privacy.3 For background on that network, see the Academy’s Orbot guide. A conversation starts only after the people using it have added each other as contacts.3
Offline messaging means nearby communication, not unlimited reach without infrastructure.1 Before travelling, arrange a practice session and a meeting point if messages stop arriving. Try the same phones and connection method you intend to use later. Pair that preparation with downloaded offline maps so your travel plan does not depend entirely on a connection.
The official site lists Briar 1.5.23, released October 27, 2026.1 In its July 9, 2026 announcement, the Briar team said the project remains active in maintenance mode, concentrating on essential security updates and bug fixes.6 Choose it for the features it has now.
Key Briar features
- Private messages: End-to-end encryption protects message contents between devices.2
- Nearby connections: Android supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi communication.5
- Tor connections: Online communication uses Tor to help hide who talks to whom.2
- Local storage: Messages stay on devices rather than in a cloud message store.1
- Shared discussions: Private groups, forums and blogs are available on Android and desktop.5
- Optional Mailbox: Linking another device running Briar Mailbox lets contacts send encrypted messages while Briar is offline.4
Briar pros and cons
Pros
- Free software makes it easy to invite a friend to try it.1
- Direct synchronization removes dependence on a central messaging server.2
- Local wireless connections provide another option during internet outages.2
- The privacy policy says routine information about app usage is not collected.7
Cons
- The team acknowledges high battery use and unreliable background operation on Android.6
- Account backup and file attachments remain missing features identified by the team.6
- Desktop remains a beta and lacks Android’s Bluetooth connection option.5
- Without Mailbox, a message to an offline contact waits until both users are connected.34
- Development currently prioritizes essential fixes rather than new features.6
Is Briar safe and private?
End-to-end encryption means message contents are protected between the communicating devices. Briar also encrypts the contact list stored on your device.2 Keep that phone protected: use a strong device passcode, install updates and think carefully about whom you add. A private conversation still depends on trusting the person receiving it.
According to Briar’s privacy policy, the project does not have access to communication content or metadata, meaning information about the communication.7 The policy lists voluntary feedback and crash reports as exceptions to its no-usage-data collection policy.7 Those submissions are encrypted before sending, but the team stores them and any email address or device information you choose to include.7 Read the submission carefully before sending it.
On 21 July 2017, the Briar team said Cure53 had performed an independent security audit. Six testers spent thirteen days looking for flaws in the protocols and code.8 That audit is historical evidence, not a guarantee about every later version. Keep the app current and judge privacy by its design, its limits and your own situation rather than the word “encrypted” alone.
How to get started with Briar
- Download together. Use Google Play or the F-Droid route linked in the official manual.3 Arrange for one trusted person to join your practice session.
- Create your account. Choose a nickname and password.3 Store the password somewhere safe before continuing.
- Add a contact. Meet and scan each other’s QR codes, or exchange Briar links remotely.3 Prefer meeting for your first practice session so you can help each other.
- Send a message. Tap the contact’s name to open the conversation.3 Ask them to reply and confirm receipt aloud.
- Practise offline. On two Android phones, turn off mobile data and internet access while leaving your chosen local wireless connection enabled. Send a fresh message in each direction. Repeat at your intended meeting place.
- Check everyday reliability. Lock the phones, wait a while and try again. Observe battery use over a normal day. Agree when to check messages and what to do if a reply never comes.
Who should use Briar and who might prefer something else?
Briar is a useful choice for a small group willing to rehearse a backup communication plan. Start with a simple goal: exchange a meeting-place update without internet access. Only build a larger plan once everyone understands the basics. Keep a written meeting arrangement as well, especially for travel or events where a missed message would matter.
If your priority is a different everyday messaging arrangement, consider Delta Chat alongside Briar. Read its setup guide with the people you actually want to reach, compare the experience and choose together. For Briar, make local communication the reason to try it, then decide whether its everyday habits suit you.
Frequently asked questions about Briar
Is Briar free?
Yes. Briar is free and open source.1 Start with a two-person trial before deciding how widely to introduce it.
Does Briar work without internet?
Yes, nearby Android users can communicate using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.2 Test your intended setup in advance; do not assume a successful internet chat proves offline delivery.
Can I use Briar on a computer?
Yes. The official desktop release is 0.6.5-beta, dated 20 February 2026, for Linux, Windows and macOS.5 Check the desktop feature comparison before planning an offline setup.
Can I recover a forgotten Briar password?
No. The manual says forgetting the password or uninstalling Briar leaves no way to recover the account.3 Treat the password as something to safeguard before an emergency.
