This brief update clarifies the status of Briar. The project remains active, but we are now in a maintenance mode, focusing solely on essential security updates and bug fixes. No new features or redesigns are planned at this time.

Over several years we struggled with issues such as high battery consumption, unreliable background operation on Android, missing account backup, file attachments, and a cumbersome offline contact addition. We considered a full rebuild or splitting into online/offline apps, but lack of funding and a clear long‑term roadmap limited progress.

Last year we announced a shutdown, but the community’s support and continued user growth persuaded us to keep the app alive. We released a final update for Android and desktop voluntarily, and now we will maintain core functionality while hoping to address long‑standing problems incrementally.

Funding comes from Small Media Foundation, Open Internet Tools Project, Access Now, Open Technology Fund, Prototype Fund, Internews, NLnet Foundation, Next Generation Internet programme, ISC Project, and e Qualit.ie. Contact Nico Alt ([email protected]), Torsten Grote ([email protected]), or Michael Rogers ([email protected]).