However, Litan added, the capability remains opt-in, requires premium licensing and administrative configuration, and disables several Gmail functions, including AI features and comprehensive search, on encrypted content. But, she pointed out, the limitations are consistent with those in Gmail web and desktop implementations.
It’s also a capability that Microsoft doesn’t provide. A Microsoft spokesperson said in an email that the company doesn’t currently offer end-to-end Outlook encryption on mobile, although messages can be digitally signed and encrypted.
In its April 9 announcement, Google said Workspace users can compose and read end-to-end encrypted messages natively within the Gmail app on Android and iOS without the 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 their email address. If the recipient uses the Gmail app, the encrypted message will be delivered as a normal message thread to their inbox, but if not, they can seamlessly and securely read and reply in their own native browser. This, Google said, ensures that all users have a simple and secure interface, regardless of their email service or device.