Element (Matrix)

Element is an open-source, federated messaging app based on the Matrix protocol.

Open Source Privacy Friendly Ad-Free No Third-Party Trackers Decentralised Self-Hostable Free of Charge
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Description

Element is a messaging and collaboration platform developed by Element (formerly New Vector), built on the Matrix open standard. Matrix is a decentralized protocol that enables secure, interoperable communication across different servers and services, giving users full control over their data and avoiding vendor lock-in. Element supports end-to-end encryption for all communications, including messages, voice, and video calls, and is designed to be fully open-source, with both client and server code available for public review and contribution.

Element is widely adopted by governments and public sector organizations, particularly in Europe, due to its strong privacy protections and compliance with digital sovereignty requirements. The app’s funding model includes venture capital, revenue from enterprise products like the Element Server Suite (ESS), and community donations. ESS is a self-hostable solution that provides advanced features for large organizations, while the open-source Synapse server remains free for community use. Element’s commitment to open standards and interoperability makes it a leading choice for secure, decentralized communication.

Element has faced some controversies, such as a temporary suspension from the Google Play Store in 2021 due to abusive content on its default server. Additionally, the project has navigated challenges in sustaining open-source development, balancing the need for revenue with the goal of remaining independent and privacy-focused. Despite these issues, Element continues to innovate, with recent updates like Element X (a faster, Rust-based client) and ongoing improvements to the Matrix protocol.

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Sustainability Features of Element (Matrix)

Open Source - Free and Open-Source Software

Element is fully open-source, including both client and server code, allowing for independent audits and community contributions.

Privacy Friendly - It does not track users unnecessarily.

Element uses end-to-end encryption by default for all communications, ensuring user privacy.

Ad-Free - Services that do not display advertisements to users, ensuring a cleaner and more private experience.

Element is ad-free and does not engage in data mining or targeted advertising.

No Third-Party Trackers - Services that do not use third-party cookies or trackers, ensuring user privacy.

Element does not use third-party trackers, ensuring user data is not shared with external parties.

Decentralised - Services or platforms that reduce reliance on single points of control, enhancing user privacy and control.

Element operates on a decentralized network (Matrix), reducing reliance on single points of control and enhancing user privacy.

Self-Hostable - Services that can be hosted by users, giving full control over data and enhancing privacy.

Element can be self-hosted, giving users full control over their data and communication infrastructure.

Free of Charge - The services provided can be used for free.

Element offers a free tier, though there are optional paid features for organisations.

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Summary

Element is a secure, open-source messaging and collaboration app built on the Matrix protocol, which is a decentralized and interoperable communication standard. Element emphasizes end-to-end encryption, user privacy, and digital sovereignty, allowing users to choose their own servers and avoid vendor lock-in. The app is fully open-source, including both client and server code, and is widely used by governments, public sector organizations, and privacy-conscious individuals. Element’s funding model combines venture capital, enterprise sales (such as the Element Server Suite), and community contributions, ensuring sustainability while maintaining independence from ads or data mining. However, Element has faced challenges, including a brief suspension from the Google Play Store due to user-submitted abusive content, and ongoing debates about the sustainability of open-source funding models.

Sustainability Score
84

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