Messenger’s end-to-end encrypted conversations and calls are now available to the general public

Messenger is a Facebook-developed (now Meta) instant chat software and platform. The business updated its messaging service in 2010, issued independent iOS and Android applications in 2011, and offered standalone Facebook Portal hardware for Messenger calls in 2018.

The messaging platform has come a long way since its initial release. It recently enabled end-to-end encrypted conversations and calls for everyone.

End-to-End Encrypted

When Messenger was still named Facebook Messenger and Meta was still Facebook, it enabled end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) messaging in 2016. Many things have changed since then, but the optional functionality is now available to everyone, complete with toggles to encrypt text messages, group chats, and phone conversations. Meta has explored making E2EE the default, but this is unlikely to happen until next year at the earliest, as some regulators believe it would jeopardize public safety.

Users may join the secret conversations in one of two ways: either by swiping up on an existing chat to enter one where messages disappear when the window is closed or by using the original version, known as Secret Conversations, which was released in 2016. Toggle the lock symbol when starting a new conversation to enable this feature.

Messenger has several more features to enable in addition to the complete launch of the functionality. You may also preserve data transferred in conversations, such as duplicate images, and a Snapchat-style screenshot notification will be available in the coming weeks.

GIFs, stickers, responses, and long-press may now be used to reply to or forward messages in end-to-end encrypted conversations. Verified badges are now available in encrypted conversations, allowing users to recognize genuine accounts.