Proton Mail

What is Proton Mail?

Proton Mail is an email application developed by Proton AG, which aims to provide encrypted email services. It is available for download on both Google Play and the App Store. The application is designed to protect communications and assist users in managing their inboxes efficiently.

The developer, Proton AG, states that the service is used by millions globally. The app allows users to create a @proton.me or @protonmail.com email address and facilitates sending and receiving encrypted emails and attachments. It also supports managing multiple Proton Mail accounts within the application.

The core of Proton Mail's offering revolves around rigorous encryption, ensuring that email content is protected across all user devices. The developer asserts that no one, not even Proton AG, can access user emails due to its zero-access encryption and end-to-end encryption between Proton users or with password protection for external recipients.

Is this the real Proton Mail app?

Key features

• Users can create a @proton.me or @protonmail.com email address.
• The application enables sending and receiving encrypted emails and attachments with ease.
• It supports switching between multiple Proton Mail accounts within the app.
• Password-protected emails can be sent to any recipient, even those not using Proton Mail.
• The inbox can be kept tidy with folders, labels, and simple swipe-gestures.
• New email notifications are provided to keep users updated.
• Important emails can be kept in focus with automatic, private categories.
• The application offers a dark mode for the inbox interface.

Privacy and permissions

Regarding privacy, the Proton Mail application on Google Play requests access to Contacts and Camera. The developer emphasizes a 'zero access architecture,' meaning data is encrypted on the client side using a key that Proton AG does not possess, theoretically preventing them from decrypting messages.

Proton Mail utilizes open-source cryptography, stating that its software has been reviewed by security experts. It employs implementations of AES, RSA, and OpenPGP, with all cryptographic libraries being open source. This approach is intended to guarantee that encryption algorithms are free from hidden back doors, contributing to the overall privacy posture of the service.

Proton AG publishes its privacy policy at proton.me.

Proton Mail permissions in plain English

Proton Mail at a glance

What changed in the latest Proton Mail version

Pricing

The Proton Mail application is available at no cost on both Google Play and the App Store. The Google Play listing indicates a price of $0, while the App Store lists it as 'Free.'

However, the Google Play listing also mentions 'in-app purchases.' The developer states that while the service is initially free, users can upgrade to a paid plan to 'get more done and support our mission,' implying that certain advanced features or expanded capacities may be offered through these in-app purchases.

Proton Mail compared with similar apps

App	Rating	Installs	Price
Proton Mail	4.5	–	Free
Microsoft OneDrive	4.6	–	Free
Zoom Workplace for Chromebook	3.9	–	Free
Google Meet	4.4	–	Free

How to get Proton Mail safely

To acquire the Proton Mail application safely, users should download it exclusively from reputable application marketplaces, such as Google Play or the App Store. It is crucial to verify that the developer listed is 'Proton AG' on either platform to ensure authenticity.

Users should avoid downloading the application from unofficial sources, third-party websites, or APK mirror sites, as these versions may be compromised or modified. Reviewing the permissions requested by the app, such as access to 'Contacts' and 'Camera' on Android devices, is also advisable to understand its operational requirements before installation.

How to install Proton Mail

Proton Mail version and app details

Who Proton Mail is for

Proton Mail is intended for individuals and organizations that prioritize the privacy and protection of their email communications. Its robust encryption features, including end-to-end and zero-access encryption, cater to users who are concerned about unauthorized access to their messages.

The app is also suitable for those who wish to manage multiple email accounts in a protected environment, send password-protected emails, and benefit from features like phishing, spam, and tracking protection. Users migrating from other email services like Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, iCloud Mail, or AOL may also find the 'Proton Easy Switch' and 'Gmail Auto-forwarding' features beneficial for a seamless transition.

Proton Mail for kids and families

Proton Mail ratings breakdown