Encrypted messaging app Session will shut down in 90 days unless new funding are secured

Session, the privacy-centered encrypted messaging application, has announced it will permanently shut down in 90 days unless it secures major new funding. The Session Technology Foundation (STF), which maintains the platform, reports an annual operating cost of about $1 million. This amount covers necessary infrastructure, developer salaries, and overhead expenses for legal and operational support.

While Session has distinguished itself from other messaging apps like Signal with a decentralized architecture, zero metadata storage, and no requirement for phone numbers, the team warns these privacy features are at risk if the shutdown proceeds. According to the announcement, Session currently serves 1.7 million monthly active users, suggesting that user donations could have a meaningful impact if participation increases.

Reflecting current financial realities, all paid staff and developers will end their formal employment with Session by April 9, 2026. Some members will continue as volunteers until the planned closure date of July 8, 2026 to maintain critical systems. If funding cannot be secured, the Foundation commits to publicly donating unused funds to the Electronic Frontier Foundation, ensuring transparency and responsible stewardship of community contributions.