– Credit: Justin Duino/How-To-Geek
Published April 9, 2026 at 5:33 PM EST
Jon has been a journalist for over a decade and covered consumer technology in publications such as Engadget Android Authority and BetaKit. He is an expert in making technology accessible, from PCs and mobiles to new platforms such as wearables.
He loves to go on family adventures and take pictures. Sign into your How-To Geek Account
Since the end of 2020, Gmail has offered fully encrypted emails. Now it is available on mobile. Google now offers end-to-end (E2EE), or encryption from the source, for Gmail users on Android and iPhones via its official email application.
This move follows the same approach as Google’s recent efforts to simplify encryption on desktops for Workspace. The encrypted message will look like a normal email thread if both sender and receiver are using Gmail. Tap the lock icon, then select “additional encryption.” . Recipients that don’t have the Gmail app will be directed to a secure website to view and respond to the messages.
As was the case with earlier versions, access to end-to-end encrypted messages is only available for organizations that use Google Workspace. This includes those who have an Enterprise Plus subscription with Assured controls or Assured control Plus. Client-side encryption will need to be enabled on Android and iOS by your administrator.
Why is end-to-end security important for Gmail?
Google was quick to point out that end-to-end encryption of email had historically been difficult. Traditionally, companies have had to use Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions to send emails. They do this by issuing certificates of security to each user. It may be necessary to utilize separate web portals and apps.
Related:
End-to end encryption – what is it and why does it matter? What is the best way to protect your data from prying eye? Google’s method is not seamless for some users, as they still rely on browsers. It streamlines both the IT manager at your company and you.
It is not necessary to understand or obtain certificates. As long as the technology has been enabled on both ends, you can start using it with a simple toggle. This move will make it easier to use end-toend encryption and lockdown sensitive data, including attachments. It should reduce the chances that government agents or criminals will be able to intercept your conversation.
It’s not just about following company policies. It may be required by law in some instances.
The General Data Protection Regulation of the European Union (GDPR), for example, has strict rules that govern privacy and security in handling information. If your employer does not do enough to protect sensitive information, there may be legal consequences.
Some countries, such as the EU, have also passed laws and initiatives requiring that at least some of their data be stored within its borders.
The end-to-end encrypted messages reduce the chance that something sent through Gmail could land in a foreign country.