According to the available data, at the initial stage of the deployment of the new feature, the developers will collect user feedback within 30 days. In the future, the testing process will take place in three phases, after which end-to-end encryption will become available to a wide range of Zoom users. Within the framework of the mentioned event, a new integrated platform for training and events was also presented, as well as the Zapps platform, which allows using third-party applications directly in video calls.

Zoom end-to-end encryption relies on GCM block cipher mode. Zoom does not have access to the encryption keys that are required to decrypt the content of video chats. This is achieved due to the fact that the keys necessary for decryption are stored on local devices of users, and not on the company’s servers. When the connection is end-to-end encrypted, a green shield icon will appear in the upper left corner of the screen.   

To start using end-to-end encryption during the testing phase of the function, the meeting organizer must activate it in their account settings. In addition, all meeting participants in this case will need to activate E2EE on their devices on their own to join the conversation. During the first stage of testing, some functions, such as recording with saving to the cloud, online transcription, individual chats, reactions, and other tools, will not be available for calls with the encryption function activated.

Zoom did not specify a specific timeline for the next stages of testing. However, it was said that the second phase is tentatively scheduled for 2021. It will likely launch with more features for Zoom users who protect their video chats with end-to-end encryption.