PGP on iPhone and iPad, what matters most
When you use PGP on iOS, the biggest differences between apps are not the encryption itself. It is how keys are created, stored, and used day to day.
A secure, practical PGP workflow on iPhone and iPad should include:
- Standard PGP compatibility so you can work with other PGP tools and providers
- Local key generation and encrypted key storage on your device
- Clear key import and key lookup options when you need them
- App-level protection such as FaceID or TouchID
- A setup flow that feels simple enough to use consistently
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Email often contains financial details, legal documents, client conversations, and personal information. On iPhone and iPad, the risk is not just interception. It is also accidental exposure through forwarded threads, lost devices, or weak account practices.
PGP helps by encrypting message content so only the intended recipient can read it. For iOS users, the simplest path is using an email client with built-in PGP support so you do not need separate tools, plugins, or complicated key handling.
What Is PGP Encryption?
PGP encryption, which stands for Pretty Good Privacy, is a method for encrypting and decrypting digital communications, such as emails. At its core, PGP uses a combination of symmetric-key cryptography and public-key cryptography. This sounds very technical, but let’s try to explain it as simply as possible: In PGP encryption, the "key" refers to a piece of digital information used to encrypt and decrypt messages. In other words, it's a unique code used to lock and unlock messages. In symmetric-key cryptography, the same code is used to lock and unlock messages. This means the sender and receiver must have the same code to keep their communication safe.In public-key cryptography, there are two codes: a public one and a private one. The public code is for locking messages, while the private code is for unlocking them. This way, people can communicate securely without having to share their private codes.To illustrate how PGP encryption works in practice, picture this example. When Alice wants to send a secure message to Bob using PGP encryption, she encrypts the message with Bob's public key, ensuring that only Bob, with his corresponding private key, can decrypt and access the message.
How to Use PGP to Encrypt and Decrypt an Email?
Using PGP to encrypt and decrypt an email is like putting your message in a lockbox that the recipient can unlock using a special code. Although it sounds very technical and complex, email clients that support built-in PGP and PGP encryption tools make it easy to encrypt and decrypt emails with a few clicks. Here's how to use PGP to encrypt and decrypt emails explained as simply as possible.
How to Encrypt an Email Using PGP
Before encrypting an email for a specific recipient, you need their public key. This key is typically provided by the recipient. They may share it with you directly, or you can find it on a public key server if they have uploaded it there. Essentially, you acquire their public key from a trusted source.Once you have the recipient's public key, you use encryption software (like Canary Mail) to encode your email with this key. This process ensures that only the recipient with the corresponding private key can decode and read the message. After encrypting the email, you send it through your email provider as you normally would.
How to Decrypt an Email Using PGP
When the recipient receives the encrypted email, they use their private key (which they keep secret) to decode the message. Decrypting the email reveals the original, unscrambled content, allowing the recipient to read the message.
How to Set Up PGP on iPhone and Mac
If you want to be able to send and receive PGP-encrypted emails on your Apple devices, you’ll need to set up PGP encryption on your iPhone and Mac. Keep in mind that this will often involve installing an add-on or a separate PGP encryption software since not all email providers use PGP by default. You can use PGP on iOS and Mac with many email services by installing compatible software or plugins, like GPGTools for Apple Mail or Enigmail for Thunderbird. Some email providers, like ProtonMail, Tutanota, and Canary Mail, offer built-in support for PGP encryption.
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How to Use Canary Mail for PGP Encryption on iOS and Mac
Canary Mail supports built-in PGP on iOS so you can encrypt and decrypt emails without installing extra plugins. It uses standard PGP compatibility, so you can work with contacts and tools that already support PGP.
You can generate new PGP keys on iPhone or iPad, or import and manage existing keys. Secret keys stay stored on your device in encrypted form, and you can add an extra layer of protection by locking the app with FaceID or TouchID.
🛠️ Canary Mail PGP Encryption Features
Here’s a quick summary of what Canary Mail offers in terms of PGP encryption.
- Works with PGP encryption on iOS, including iPhone & iPad
- Compatible with standard PGP encryption
- Integrates with key servers like SKS, Keybase, OpenPGP.org & ProtonMail
- Offers extra security with FaceID or TouchID authentication
- Uses the open-source Bouncy Castle encryption library
- Includes a fully automated encryption mode for new users
Integrates with key servers like SKS, Keybase, OpenPGP.org & ProtonMail
PGP on iOS and Mac, the Bottom Line
If you send sensitive email from iPhone or iPad, PGP is still one of the most effective ways to protect message content. The best setup is the one you can use consistently, with clear key handling and a workflow that does not slow you down.
If you want built-in PGP on iOS without extra plugins, Canary Mail is a straightforward option. Before switching your daily workflow, review pricing and device coverage so everything stays consistent across your devices.
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PGP for macOS, iPhone & iPad, the FAQs
What’s the best way to use PGP on iPhone or iPad?
Choose apps with native PGP support, local key generation, clear UX, secure backup, and cross-platform compatibility. A good starting point is Canary Mail, which combines encryption with ease of use.
Does PGP slow down email?
It can if the app handles keys poorly. The best apps minimize delay and provide encrypted sending templates. Compare performance against other iOS email alternatives to choose the right fit.
Do all recipients support PGP?
No. Many don’t use it. Always test and provide non-encrypted fallback. For more guidance, see our guide on email read receipts and how to confirm engagement securely.
What happens if I lose my private key?
Without backup, you lose access to encrypted emails tied to that key. Always keep secure copies and enable revocation. To avoid mistakes, learn more in Can you delete an email you sent.
Does PGP still make sense if I send mostly normal email?
Yes. Having PGP active provides privacy in critical cases and adds protection even if not used daily. For broader recommendations, explore our Apple Mail alternatives list.