Question 1

Can I use Proton without creating an account, like how phone apps work with guest access?

Accepted Answer

No, Proton does not allow guest access or use without creating an account. All core features require account creation and login, and users report significant difficulties with registration, login, and account recovery.

Account Required: Reviewers consistently report that Proton requires an account to access any functionality. Multiple users describe being unable to log in, register, or recover accounts, with some stating they were logged out immediately after registration.

Login Problems: Common issues include login loops, account creation failures, and inability to verify phone numbers or recovery emails. These problems suggest the system is not designed for anonymous or temporary use.

No Guest Mode: Even when users manage to create an account, they often face confusion around subscription access and feature availability, reinforcing that the platform is not built for guest or temporary use.

Question 2

Why can't I add my phone number during Proton app setup? I keep getting a 'number not recognized' error.?

Accepted Answer

The 'number not recognized' error during Proton app setup may stem from regional restrictions, incorrect formatting, or server-side issues, with users reporting persistent problems despite correct input and location settings.

Recognition Issues: Reviewers report that the app fails to recognize valid phone numbers during setup, even when the number is correctly formatted and the user's location matches the expected region. One user specifically noted receiving a response stating their location was correct, yet the error persisted.

Regional Restrictions: Some users suspect the problem is tied to regional or server-side restrictions, especially when trying to use numbers from specific countries. One reviewer mentioned being unable to access a Singapore server despite the option being available, suggesting broader infrastructure limitations may affect number verification.

Workarounds & Frustration: A few users suggest trying alternative methods, such as using a different device or checking the app’s version, though these fixes were not consistently effective. The lack of clear error messages or troubleshooting guidance adds to the frustration.

Question 3

Why can’t I upload files in the Proton app? The upload speed is extremely slow and sometimes it forgets I’m uploading.?

Accepted Answer

The Proton app has been reported to have significant issues with file uploads, including extremely slow speeds, failed uploads, and the app forgetting ongoing upload processes. Users also face broader problems with syncing, app stability, and missing core features like file search and folder details.

Upload Failures: Reviewers report that file uploads in the Proton app are unreliable, with uploads frequently failing or being forgotten mid-process. Some users describe the upload speed as extremely slow, especially when organizing photos, which are uploaded one by one in random order only when the app is open.

Sync Problems: Sync issues are a common complaint, with users stating that even after updates, the app fails to maintain consistent synchronization. This leads to frustration when trying to manage files, as changes are not reliably reflected across devices.

Missing Features: Many users find the app's interface limiting and lacking essential features like file search, folder size display, and item counts. These missing tools make it difficult to navigate and manage files effectively, contributing to a poor overall experience.

Question 4

How do I recover my Proton account if my saved password is rejected and I can't log in?

Accepted Answer

If you're locked out of your Proton account because your saved password is rejected, reviewers report that the password reset process is frustrating and unclear, and some users have been unable to recover their accounts after being locked out.

Reset Process Frustrating: Reviewers report that the password reset process is confusing and difficult to complete, with one user describing it as 'most frustrating' and noting that remembering a complex password set months ago is unreasonable. The recovery steps are not intuitive, and users often struggle to move forward.

Account Recovery Failed: Several users have reported being completely locked out of their accounts, with messages saying the account doesn't exist or is already taken, and no way to recover access. One user stated they 'can't log in, can't recover,' indicating serious issues with account recovery functionality.

Poor Support & Guidance: The lack of clear instructions and support during login issues makes it hard to resolve problems. Some users mention that support does not respond promptly, and the app or website does not guide users through recovery steps effectively.

Question 5

Why doesn’t Proton have a search function, and why is it frustrating users?

Accepted Answer

The Proton app currently lacks a file search function, which reviewers have repeatedly criticized as a major usability flaw. Many users find the absence of search functionality frustrating, especially when managing large numbers of files or emails.

Missing Search Function: Reviewers report that the lack of a file search system is a persistent and serious shortcoming. One user explicitly states, 'There is no file search system. Please add a file search system,' highlighting the demand for this feature.

User Frustration: The absence of search makes organizing and retrieving files extremely difficult, especially when syncing or managing content across devices. Users describe the experience as 'agonizing' and 'frustrating,' particularly when files are uploaded in random order and cannot be easily located.

Workarounds Needed: Despite repeated complaints, Proton has not implemented a search feature, leaving users to rely on browser-based versions or workarounds. Some reviewers note they prefer the web version for full functionality, indicating the app's limitations are significant.

Proton: Setup & configuration (Ordering & website)

What customers praise

Common complaints

How it has changed over time

Practical takeaways

Customer voices