Gmail now lets you send encrypted emails on mobile
What's the story
Google has added a new feature to its Gmail app, allowing users to send and receive encrypted emails directly within the app. The move is especially beneficial for enterprise customers dealing with sensitive information. The feature was previously only available on desktops but can now be used by iOS and Android users without any additional downloads or mail portals.
Subscription details
Feature available for Enterprise Plus subscribers only
It is important to note that this new feature isn't available for all Gmail users, and is exclusively accessible to Enterprise Plus subscribers who have the Assured Controls or Assured Controls Plus add-on. The Enterprise Plus subscription plan is one of many in Google Workspace and offers enhanced data protection and client-side encryption, which are not available in the cheaper Enterprise Standard plan.
Enhanced security
Assured Controls and Assured Controls Plus add-ons
The Assured Controls and Assured Controls Plus add-ons are designed to boost digital sovereignty, data residency, and compliance. Google says this new feature will let users "engage with your organization's most sensitive data from anywhere on their mobile devices while ensuring data remains compliant." This way, businesses can ensure that their confidential information stays secure even when accessed remotely.
Cross-platform encryption
Send encrypted emails to non-Gmail users too
The new feature also lets Gmail app users send encrypted emails to anyone, even those not using Gmail. If the recipient is on the Gmail app, the encrypted email will show up like any other in their inbox. But if they're not using this service, they can still read and reply to the encrypted email via their own browser with the entire conversation remaining secure.
User guide
How to start using the new feature?
Enterprise Plus customers can start using this feature right away, whether they're on the Rapid Release or Scheduled Release domains. To encrypt an email, they just have to click on the lock icon and select additional encryption before composing their message. Business and organization administrators will have to enable this feature in the CSE admin interface in Admin Console for their Gmail users.