Diode Introduces Encrypted Chat and Storage with ICP vetKeys

The team at Diode has announced new production canisters on the Internet Computer, extending their focus on privacy by integrating end-to-end encryption powered by vetKeys. The update makes it possible for users to exchange fully encrypted chat messages along with embedded images, documents and other files directly within conversations.

Alongside messaging, the new features add encrypted metadata and file system storage on canisters. This creates what Diode describes as “always on peers” for Zones, removing the previous need for at least two team members to be online for data synchronisation while keeping privacy standards in place.

The encryption model ensures that only the owner and authorised team members can access stored content. Neither the Diode team, the Dfinity Foundation, nor node operators are able to decrypt data secured through vetKeys. For users, the approach aims to provide strong privacy guarantees within a decentralised environment.

Diode says the canisters are managed entirely by Zone owners through the Diode app, giving users direct control over their data. The company is currently running beta tests with early adopters and expects to roll out the updated canisters more broadly in the near future.

The release also incorporates Enhanced Orthogonal Persistence with reduced reliance on Motoko regions, a step expected to optimise resource use. Future adoption of low-cost blob storage for Motoko is anticipated to help bring down costs further.

For Diode, the move reflects a wider ambition to combine decentralised infrastructure with practical tools that meet enterprise and user expectations around privacy. With end-to-end encrypted communication and storage available on ICP canisters, the update points to how blockchain-based services are continuing to address long-standing concerns about data security.