Briar, the secure messaging app known for offline communication, announced on July 9 that it has entered maintenance mode, focusing only on essential security updates and bug fixes. The project remains active but will no longer pursue major feature development or redesigns, according to briarproject.org.
The Briar team cited persistent challenges such as high battery consumption, unreliable background operation on Android, lack of account backup, missing file attachment features, and a complicated user experience for offline contact management. After years of attempting to address these issues without dedicated funding or a long-term plan, the developers decided last year to cease active development and instead released a final update for Android and desktop platforms.
Briar’s decision reflects the difficulties faced by decentralized and privacy-focused communication tools in sustaining development without financial support. The app’s offline messaging capability and focus on security had distinguished it in a crowded market, but unresolved technical limitations and resource constraints hindered its growth. The move to maintenance mode aligns with similar projects that have struggled to balance innovation with operational viability.
The Briar team confirmed that while no new features will be added, critical security patches and bug fixes will continue to be provided. Users can still download the latest versions for Android and desktop from the official Briar website, ensuring continued access to the app’s core secure messaging functions.