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element.io
Screenshot of Element (Matrix Client)
Hidden Gem

Edited by Alex Surfaced·Social·2 min read
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Element is a powerful, end-to-end encrypted messaging and collaboration client built on the open Matrix protocol. Developed by Element, it offers secure communication for individuals and teams, acting as a gateway to the decentralized Matrix network. You can chat, voice/video call, share files, and collaborate on projects with unparalleled privacy and control over your data, as it allows you to host your own server or join public ones.

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Surfaced take

Why It’s Useful

Element, and the Matrix protocol it's built upon, offers a refreshing alternative to centralized messaging apps by prioritizing decentralization and end-to-end encryption. This means no single company controls your conversations, and you can communicate with users on different Matrix servers, fostering true interoperability. Its strength lies in its commitment to privacy and open standards, making it a favorite among privacy-conscious users and organizations. The ability to bridge to other chat networks (like Slack or Discord) adds significant utility, allowing you to manage multiple conversations from one app. For those frustrated by platform lock-in and data harvesting, Element provides a robust and secure haven.

In everyday life

When you’d actually reach for this

Need to coordinate a sensitive project with colleagues across different organizations? Use Element for secure, encrypted group chats and file sharing. Want to keep in touch with friends without relying on a single app's servers? Create a private Matrix room and invite them, knowing your conversations are protected.

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