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SimpleX Chat

You start private calls via invitations without a fixed, general username for the entire network.

Developer SimpleX Chat

Version 7.0.3 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux

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

SimpleX Chat uses invitation links and separate connections to establish contacts. You do not need to use a phone number or global user ID. The app provides messages and additional communication functions within that connection setup.

Sharing an invitation and managing backups is part of the process. Your contacts are not automatically recovered from a general user register. Therefore, check how you transfer calls and data to a new device.

Which software suits you?

Compare SimpleX Chat 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 SimpleX Chat and Session, Jami, Element
SoftwareWhat can it do?Platform and licence
SimpleX ChatYou are viewing this app 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
SessionView this alternative 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
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
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

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

Who is it for?

You want targeted communication without a telephone number or general network identity and accept an invitation mode.

Getting started

Install the official client and first connect to a controlled invitation. Set a suitable backup.

Privacy

The setup limits the use of a fixed general identifier. Servers still process traffic, and the content or files you share may contain personal data.

Good to know

Participants must use compatible SimpleX clients. App data and contact recovery work differently from phone number accounts.

Please note

Keep an appropriate backup and treat invitations carefully. Loss of local data may complicate recovery of calls.

Advantages

  • No general user ID required Contact via targeted call Encrypted communication

Things to consider

  • Add other way of contacts Backup and migration require attention Less obvious accessibility than an address book app

Download SimpleX Chat

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Official download page

Provider’s website · simplex.chat

Download SimpleX Chat (opens in a new tab)

Version history

7.0.3

You will get recovered link handling on Android and corrections for building the app.

  • Regular simplex.chat web page pop up on Android again in the browser; the recognition of real SimpleX links has been corrected.
  • The app uses a Java function that is compatible with older versions in an affected area.
  • The script for reproducible builds re-initiates the required submodules.
7.0.2

You get updated video parts in the desktop version.

SimpleX Chat 7.0.2 updates the used VLC desktop component to 3.0.23-2 and corrects building process components. The update focuses on maintaining the desktop app.
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Our verdict

SimpleX Chat is interesting when you don't want to use a fixed identity that comes back all over a chat network. The invitation approach makes contact conscious and targeted. This can fit well with individual conversations or small groups that make the same choice.

The downside is that you can rely less on automatic recovery of contacts. Therefore, not only test a message, but also backup, recovery and notifications. For a group that wants to quickly connect without explanation, the method may be more cumbersome. If the limitation of general identifiers is your goal, SimpleX offers a distinctly different setup to assess.

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