Setting Up Manual Encryption Mode on iOS

Manage your existing PGP keys with Canary’s Key Manager

You must use the Manual encryption mode (PGP) in Canary if:

1) You plan on using your existing PGP keys generated via other apps / tools such as GPGTools, Symantec Encryption Desktop etc

2) You prefer to manage your encryption manually, using your existing PGP keys instead of SecureSend.

Importing PGP Keys to Canary:

On iOS, you can select Manual mode during app onboarding or by navigating to:
Canary > Settings > Security > Encryption Mode > PGP.

To import your keys to Canary, you must first export them from your current app / tool as a .asc file. For example, you can do this via GPG Keychain as follows:

1) Select keys you’d like to transfer to Canary

2) Click Export (doing this will only save a copy, your keys will still remain in GPG Keychain)

3) Check the box to include private keys (required for sending emails via Canary).

4) Click Save to export the .asc file.

Transferring PGP Keys to your iPhone/iPad:

You can transfer the .asc file to your device using Finder on macOS or by sending the file via traditional methods (e.g., email, cloud storage, etc.). If using Finder:

1. Connect your device to your computer.
2. Open Finder and select your device.
3. Go to Files > Canary.
4. Drag and drop the .asc file into Canary.
5. Click Done.

Alternatively, you can send the .asc file to your device via email or a cloud service, then open it directly in Canary.

For users who still use iTunes:

Since iTunes was previously an option, we’ve retained support for it in Canary. If you’re using iTunes, you can transfer your keys from macOS to iTunes as before. On your iOS device, select Transferred via iTunes (if your keys have already been exported to iTunes).

Important Update:
Currently, even if you’ve transferred your keys via Finder, the import option on iOS will still appear as ‘Transferred via iTunes’. We are fixing this in the upcoming release of Canary Mail, where this will be updated to accurately reflect Finder. Stay tuned – it’s coming soon!

Importing Keys in Canary:

Once the file is on your device, follow these steps:

1) Open Canary and go to Settings > Security > Encryption Mode > PGP > Manage Keys.

2) In the Key Manager, tap the + icon (top-right corner).

3) Select Transferred via iTunes (for now, whether you’ve used iTunes or Finder) or open the .asc file from other storage options (via Browse).

4) Review and import your keys.

Key Manager in Canary for iOS:

Through the Key Manager, you can:

1. Import existing keys.
2. Search for and add public keys for your contacts.
3. Swipe left to delete keys.
4. Generate new keys.

Now, you’re all set to send and receive encrypted emails using your PGP keys via Canary!