Valv review
A free, open-source Android vault for organizing sensitive files across multiple passwords.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Valv is an open-source Android app for protecting photos, GIFs, videos and text files in encrypted vaults. It is suited to Android users who want local storage, multiple password-protected vaults and basic organization without a paid plan. Content can be arranged into folders, annotated with notes or text, and viewed in day or night mode. Valv supports Android 9 and newer and is available through Google Play and downloadable APK releases.
Its main strength is a focused on-device security model. Valv encrypts files with ChaCha20 and stores them on the device rather than uploading them to a service. Multiple vaults can use different passwords, which helps separate collections or access contexts. The app also supports passwords or PIN codes for unlocking and can export decrypted photos to the device gallery. This makes it a practical fit for users who value open-source software and local control, while the lack of automatic cloud backup means device-to-device continuity requires backups or transfers.
Valv covers more than photos: GIFs, videos, text files, folders and notes are part of the same vault experience. Its limitations are important for buyers comparing broader privacy apps. It is Android-only and does not provide verified backup, decoy access, intruder features or a camera feature. Choose Valv if free local encryption and multiple vaults are the priorities. Users who need cloud backup, cross-platform availability or those additional privacy and capture tools should consider an alternative.
Valv pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free, open-source ChaCha20 encryption
- Multiple vaults with separate passwords or PIN codes
- Folders, notes and gallery export for supported files
- Where it doesn't
- Android-only availability
- No automatic cloud backup
- No decoy, intruder or camera features
Valv fact sheet, pricing and score →
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