Google has enabled full encryption in Gmail for Android and iOS, but it is available only to a limited group of users

Google launches end‑to‑end encryption for Gmail on mobile devices

*The company announced that the E2EE (end‑to‑end encryption) feature is now available in Gmail apps for Android and iOS.*

What changed
Item Current state New solution Availability Only on desktop (web version). All mobile devices – Android and iOS.
Users Corporate clients using Gmail Enterprise. Any user with an Enterprise Plus + Assured Controls/Plus license.
Sending messages Requires a separate app or portal. Can create and read encrypted emails directly in the standard Gmail app.
Recipients Only Gmail users. Any address, even non‑Gmail (via web browser).

How it works
1. Encryption keys are controlled by the organization and stored outside Google’s servers.

2. Messages and attachments are encrypted on the client before sending, ensuring compliance with HIPAA, export control, and data sovereignty requirements.

3. To enable encryption, the user clicks the “Additional encryption” lock icon when composing a message.

Technical history
Year Event
2022 Gmail web version received CSE (client‑side encryption).
Feb 2023 CSE extended to Enterprise Plus, Education Plus, and Education Standard.
Oct 2023 Ability to send encrypted emails to any mail service announced for Gmail Enterprise.
Apr 2025 Beta E2EE launched for corporate Gmail users.
Now Full release on Android and iOS.

What it means for business
- Convenience: users don’t download extra apps – everything works in the familiar Gmail interface.

- Security: messages remain encrypted until they reach the sender and recipient.

- Flexibility: corporate clients can protect emails regardless of where they are sent.

Bottom line: Google makes end‑to‑end encryption for Gmail available on mobile devices without extra steps, combining a high level of privacy with ease of use for all types of organizations.