Furthermore it’s not clear if this is hitting the app for both users on Android and iOS. Since it isn’t specifically mentioned though, presumably it’s both platforms. But that still leaves the possibility that some users may not see this feature right away. Facebook also plans to bring the encrypted calls feature to Messenger group calls and group chats. The plan is to start testing the new feature for group calls in the weeks ahead. Facebook doesn’t give a time frame for a full feature rollout, but it does say that some uses may notice they have access to the feature in the near future.
The Facebook Messenger encrypted calls feature is opt-in
Facebook isn’t requiring users to take part in this new security feature. So you can avoid if you really want to, as it’s an opt-in feature that’s being added to the app. That being said, better security is better security. With the E2EE calls enabled, only the user and the recipient of the call can hear what’s going on in the call. So your conversations are safe from anyone that shouldn’t be listening. While the option is off by default, enabling it should be easy enough. Facebook also notes that E2EE calls and chats can still be reported if the need to do so arises.
Instagram direct messages will get E2EE soon as well
There’s one more feature that Facebook announced today and it’s end-to-end encrypted chats for Instagram direct messages. This will be opt-in as well, and you’ll need to be following each other to take part in an existing E2EE chat. Or have an existing chat already going. Testing will be limited to adult users and in certain countries at first. Facebook doesn’t say which countries, or when it would officially roll out to all users.
