Session

You exchange messages with a Session ID without giving a phone number or email address for registration.

Version 1.18.1 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux

Looking for an alternative to Session?Compare Element, SimpleX Chat, Jami.Compare alternatives

Session is a message app that uses accounts with a Session ID. You add contacts via that identity and can use conversations and groups. The network is set up differently from a regular central chat service.

This set-up does not mean that all data in every situation is invisible. The content you share, group forms and any call functions have their own characteristics. Keep recovery data carefully if you want to continue using your identity on another device.

Which software suits you?

Compare Session with alternatives

If you want a different setup than an ordinary central chat service, compare accounts, network architecture and contact exchange. Self-contained or without a phone number does not mean that each app offers the same level of anonymity. Your partners must use the same solution or a compatible network.

Differences between Session and Element, SimpleX Chat, Jami
Software	What can it do?	Platform and licence
SessionYou are viewing this app	You chat without a phone number as an account identity and use Sessions network for message exchange. Please take into account your own contact and network setup.	Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
ElementView this alternative	You use Matrix for calls and groups, with the possibility of your own server. Encryption and management also depend on the rooms and server facilities.	Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
SimpleX ChatView this alternative	You exchange messages without a central user ID and connect contacts via invitations. That differs from searching on a public account or phone number.	Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
JamiView this alternative	You chat and call via a distributed setup without a mandatory central service for your calls. The connection between your devices and conversational partners is part of the operation.	Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source

Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.

Who is it for?

You want to chat without using your phone number as an account identity and your contacts want to install the same app.

Getting started

Install the official app, create a Session ID and save the recovery data. Check the identity of your first contact through another channel.

Privacy

Registration does not require a phone number. Your message content and shared files can still identify you; also check the properties of group and call functions.

Good to know

Other participants need a Session client. Not all functions are similar to those of regular telephone number-related messengers.

Please note

Save recovery data outside the app. A Session ID is sensitive to switching; check with whom you make contact.

Advantages

No phone number required for registration Own Session ID Messages and Groups

Things to consider

Contacts must use Session Save recovery data yourself Functions differ from common chat services

Download Session

The download page opens in a new tab.

Official download page

Provider’s website · getsession.org

Download Session

Version history

1.18.1 10 Jul 2026

You will see a custom donation call in the desktop app.

Session 1.18.1 adjusts the text of the donation call. This small release does not introduce an announced new chat function or security feature. Your existing conversations will remain accessible in the same way.

Report a new version

Our verdict

Session is especially relevant when you do not want to use your phone number as a chat identity. That is a concrete reason to choose this app. It works best if you agree with a small group in advance how to add each other and what functions you use.

Do not let the choice depend solely on general privacy claims. Check recovery, notifications and accessibility on your group's devices. The content of a message can still make you recognizable. For users who want to find all the contacts in their directory automatically, this approach is less self-evident. For conscious, separate communication, that separation may be desirable.