Enigma

Introduction to the Enigma Project

Enigma is a minimalist, one-to-one chat application meticulously crafted for privacy and simplicity. This locked-down chat app offers a secure environment for users to communicate intimately without the clutter and unwanted noise typical of many chat platforms. Here's a closer look at what makes Enigma stand out:

Getting Started

For those interested in using Enigma, it's important to know that this application is built on the Flutter framework. To begin using Enigma, follow these steps:

1. Set Up Flutter: Make sure you have Flutter installed. Follow the Flutter Getting Started Guide if required.
2. Firebase Configuration: Enigma leverages Firebase. Set up a Firebase project and enable the following features:
   • Firebase Phone Authentication for secure user authentication.
   • Cloud Firestore (note: not Realtime Database) for storing chat data.
   • Firebase Storage for image storage.
   • Firebase In-App Messaging for sending custom messages.
3. Configure Your Project: Download the google-services.json file from Firebase and place it in the android/app directory of your project.
4. Install Dependencies: Use flutter packages get to download necessary packages.
5. Run the Application: Use a device or emulator and execute flutter run to launch Enigma.

Notifications Setup

To ensure notifications are functioning, follow these steps:

1. Enable FCM: First, activate Firebase Cloud Messaging in the Firebase Console.
2. Configure Functions: Copy the functions directory to your project root.
3. Deploy Functions: Run firebase deploy --only functions (note: firebase-cli must be installed for this).

Security and Firebase Rules

The app uses a basic security rule for Firebase data storage that allows read/write if the user is authenticated (request.auth.uid != null). This can be adjusted for more restrictive access as needed. Detailed instructions for customizing rules can be found here.

Features

Enigma is designed with several key features:

• Authentication: Access hidden and locked chats with passcode authentication, or use fingerprint recognition if available on your device.
• End-to-End Encryption: Enigma ensures messages are seen only by intended recipients through robust encryption.
• Hide and Lock Chats: Additional security is provided through 'hide' and 'lock' functions, controlled by user authorization.
• End Conversations: Tidy up after chats by swiftly deleting conversation history with a simple swipe.
• Save Messages: Important messages can be locally saved with a double tap for easy access later.
• Minimal Notifications: Users decide when to engage with the app; no nagging notifications ensure a peaceful experience.
• No Forwarding: Built for exclusive one-to-one communication, Enigma does not allow message forwarding.
• Elegant UI: Enjoy a sleek, gesture-friendly interface that maintains functionality without excess design.
• Compact Size: The app comes in at under 10 MB, keeping it light on device storage.

Acknowledgements

Enigma incorporates a passcode widget from an open-source project licensed under the Apache 2.0 License. You can explore the widget here.

Through these thoughtful features and careful integration, Enigma provides a private, clean, and efficient messaging experience. Whether you're seeking advanced security or simply a distraction-free chat app, Enigma has your needs covered.