Google rolls out Gmail end-to-end encryption on mobile devices

Source: Bleeping Computer

Google says Gmail end‑to‑end encryption (E2EE) is now available on all Android and iOS devices, allowing enterprise users to read and compose encrypted emails without additional tools.

Starting this week, encrypted messages will be delivered as regular emails to Gmail recipients’ inboxes if they use the Gmail app. Recipients who don’t have the Gmail mobile app and use other email services can read them in a web browser, regardless of the device and service they’re using.

“For the first time, users can compose and read these E2EE messages natively within the Gmail app on Android and iOS. No need to download extra apps or use mail portals. Users with a Gmail E2EE license can send an encrypted message to any recipient, regardless of what email address the recipient has,” Google announced on Thursday.

“This launch combines the highest level of privacy and data encryption with a user‑friendly experience for all users, enabling simple encrypted email for all customers from small businesses to enterprises and public sector.”

Availability

• The feature is now available for all client‑side encryption (CSE) users with Enterprise Plus licenses and the Assured Controls or Assured Controls Plus add‑on.
• Admins must enable the Android and iOS clients in the CSE admin interface via the Admin Console.

Sending an Encrypted Message

1. Compose a new email in the Gmail mobile app.
2. Click the Lock icon to turn on the “Additional encryption” option.
3. Send the message as usual.

Background

• In October, Google announced that Gmail enterprise users can send E2EE emails to recipients on any email service or platform.
• Gmail’s E2EE feature is powered by client‑side encryption (CSE), which lets organizations use encryption keys they control and store outside Google’s servers. This helps meet regulatory requirements such as data sovereignty, HIPAA, and export controls by ensuring Google and third parties cannot read the data.
• CSE was introduced on Gmail web in December 2022 as a beta test, following an earlier beta rollout to Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Meet, and Calendar. It reached general availability for Workspace Enterprise Plus, Education Plus, and Education Standard customers in February 2023.
• A beta for Gmail enterprise users began rolling out in April 2025.