# Databag — Decentralized Web Messenger

> Decentralized, federated, end-to-end encrypted messaging service with topic-based threads. (iPhone/iPad app by Roland Osborne.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/databag/id6443741428 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Roland Osborne](https://appshunter.io/developer/1492503923)
- Category: Productivity, Photo & Video
- Price: Free
- Rating: 5.00/5 from 1 App Store ratings · 1 written reviews indexed
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 13.4 · 45 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2022-10-28
- Data updated: 2026-08-08
- Monetization: free
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/databag/id6443741428/reviews.md

## What is Databag?

Databag is a selfhosted messaging service. Notable features include:
- Decentralized (direct communication between app and server node)
- Federated (accounts on different nodes can communicate)
- Public-Private key based identity (not bound to any blockchain or hosting domain)
- End-to-End encryption (the hosting admin cannot view sealed topics, default unsealed)
- Audio and Video Calls (nat traversal requires separate relay server)
- Topic based threads (messages organized by topic not contacts)
- Lightweight (server can run on a raspberry pi zero v1.3)
- Low latency (use of websockets for push events to avoid polling)
- Unlimited accounts per node (host for your whole family)
- Mobile alerts for new contacts, messages, and calls (supports APN)

## Key features

- Decentralized communication
- Federated accounts
- End-to-end encryption
- Topic-based threads
- Audio and video calls
- Mobile alerts

## Recent user reviews (1 of 1)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/databag/id6443741428/reviews.md

### 5/5 — I can finally share family photos again!

*2022-11-03*

Had to learn to self host, but so worth it. I can communicate with privacy, and don’t need to wonder about who or what has access to the photos I share with family.

## Frequently asked questions about Databag

### What makes Databag decentralized?

Databag is decentralized because it facilitates direct communication between the app and a server node. This means your messages do not necessarily pass through a central third-party server, enhancing privacy and control.

### How does Databag handle encryption?

Databag uses public-private key-based identity and offers end-to-end encryption for topics. This ensures that even the hosting administrator cannot view sealed topics, providing a high level of message security.

### Can I host Databag on a low-power device?

Yes, Databag is designed to be lightweight. The server can run on devices like a Raspberry Pi Zero v1.3, making it accessible for home use and small-scale deployments.

### How does Databag organize conversations?

Instead of organizing messages by contacts, Databag uses topic-based threads. This allows users to group conversations by subject matter, making it easier to manage and follow discussions.

### Does Databag support audio and video calls?

Yes, Databag supports audio and video calls. Please note that for these features to work seamlessly, a separate relay server may be required for NAT traversal.

### What devices does Databag support?

Databag is available for iPhone, iPad, and iPod devices. It is designed to provide a consistent experience across Apple's mobile ecosystem.

### How often is Databag updated?

The latest version of Databag is 1.31, and it was last updated on September 16, 2025. This indicates a recent update, suggesting ongoing development and support.

### Is Databag suitable for families?

Yes, Databag can host unlimited accounts per node, making it an excellent option for families. You can host a secure messaging service for your entire family from a single node.

## Version history (last 5 releases)

### 1.31 — 2025-09-16

Redesign of App UI/UX from @cozats
UI/UX rework of audio and video calls from @mhbdesignr
App refactor with Client-SDK

### 1.30 — 2024-10-26

Fix for slow identification of clickable URL

### 1.29 — 2024-06-20

Fix for error encountered when accepting contact requests.

### 1.28 — 2024-06-12

improved save/share attachment support
cloudflare turn service configuration on supported servers

### 1.27 — 2024-05-26

- Support for TOTP Multi-Factor Authentication, feature won't be visible until corresponding server release.

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## More apps by Roland Osborne

- [IndiView](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/indiview/id1569089072)

All apps by Roland Osborne: https://appshunter.io/developer/1492503923

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-08.*