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After initial rejection, Cryptocat finally launches on iOS

After initial rejection, Cryptocat finally launches on iOS

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The encrypted chat app Cryptocat is launching today for iOS, after an initial rejection in December. Previously available as a desktop app and browser plugin, the program uses the OTR model to offer strong encryption and forward secrecy for text conversations, with servers held in a Swedish nuclear bunker to protect them from government intrusion. In December, Cryptocat's iOS app was rejected by the App store for what founder Nadim Kobeissi called "illegitimate" reasons, but it now seems the initial decision has been reversed.

Reached by The Verge, Kobeissi said the App Store difficulties had been fully ironed out, although his non-disclosure agreement as a developer prevented him from explaining exactly how. "There was some very important help given by the Electronic Frontier Foundation, and we ended up scheduling a conversation with Apple, and after a while Apple was very gracious and understanding," he said. "I couldn't be happier with Apple right now."