We’re thrilled to share some big news with you! We're preparing to roll out MLS (Messaging Layer Security), a game-changing update to enhance your Wire experience with stronger security and enhanced support for larger groups.
Here’s everything you need to know about our MLS rollout, its benefits, and how this rollout will affect you.
Why Are We Rolling Out MLS?
We know how vital secure and reliable communication is, especially for large teams and organizations. That's why MLS is here!
- Support for Larger Groups: With MLS, we can now support up to 2000 users in a single group chat! Plus, the good news is that even with such large groups, there will be very minimal delays in sending messages.
- Introducing Channels for Wire Teams: We’re also introducing Channels for Wire Teams, which will make collaboration even easier. While we’re not ready to reveal everything just yet, trust us—these channels will be a game-changer for how teams communicate within Wire.
The Security Benefits of MLS
Your privacy and security are our top priority. MLS brings several key benefits that ensure your communications are as safe as possible.
- Stronger Encryption: MLS uses very strong end-to-end encryption. This means your messages are secure from start to finish, and only the intended recipient can access them. Want to know more? Check out this video on YouTube explaining how MLS encryption works.
- Per Conversation Encryption: Unlike the old Proteus system, which used per-device encryption, MLS uses per-conversation encryption. This means each chat has its own unique encryption key, adding an extra layer of security for your conversations.
What Does the MLS Rollout Mean for You?
The transition to MLS will bring many benefits, but there are a few things to keep in mind during the rollout:
- Incompatible Older Clients:
MLS requires updated Wire clients. Older app versions will no longer be able to connect to Wire Cloud. So, it’s time to update your app!
-
Impact on Older Devices:
Apple devices that cannot upgrade to iOS 16 (like the iPhone 7 and below) will no longer be able to use Wire. Similarly, Android devices running version 7 and below will also lose compatibility with the app.
This is a security measure. Apple no longer updates iOS 15 and below, and Android 7 devices are also outdated. To keep everyone safe, we’re discontinuing support for these platforms.
How Will We Roll Out MLS? Here’s the Timeline:
We’re rolling out MLS in waves to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s the plan:
- First Wave (March 5th, 2025):
- iOS: Version 3.112.2 and below (released May 2024)
- Android: Version 4.6.0 and below (released March 2024). Users with these versions will be denied access to Wire Cloud.
- Second Wave (March 30th, 2025):
- iOS: Version 3.113.1 and below (released October 2024)
- Android: Version 4.9.0 and below (released October 2024)
- Third Wave (April 30th, 2025):
- iOS: Version 3.115.0 (released January 2025)
- Android: Version 4.10.0 and below (released January 2025)
During this time, both MLS and Proteus will co-exist on the platform. But don’t worry—all group conversations will be migrated from Proteus to MLS within 24 to 48 hours after the final wave.
Once the migration is complete, we’ll officially retire Proteus. We’ll update you with a more specific date as soon as possible.
What About Very Old Mobile Devices?
Devices no longer supported by their manufacturers will be unable to use Wire after the update.
- Apple Devices: If you’re using an iPhone 7 or below or can’t upgrade to iOS 16 or higher, you’ll need to upgrade your device or app to continue using Wire.
- Android Devices: If your device runs Android version 7 or below, it will no longer be compatible with Wire.
These platforms no longer receive updates, which poses a security risk. For the safety of all our users, Wire will no longer support them.
Update Your App Today!
To stay secure and enjoy all the new features MLS brings, make sure to update your Wire app now!
We’re really excited about the new possibilities MLS brings to Wire and can’t wait for you to experience the benefits firsthand. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue rolling out MLS to improve your communication security and experience!
