So, whats [Matrix]? It’s an open network providing a secure and customisable platform for chat, based on the idea that communication should be decentralised. Before we get into the specifics there, lets just touch on what decentralisation actually means here..

Decentralisation?

Decentralisation in technology broadly refers to shifting control and decision-making from a single, centralised entity to a distributed network. This concept has gained traction in recent years, you might have come across decentralised platforms like Mastodon or Bluesky.

Take Mastodon as an example; it functions similarly to Twitter but consists of thousands of independent servers. When you join, you choose one of these servers as your ‘home.’ From there, you can follow, post, and engage with any user on the Mastodon network, regardless of their server.

This structure is the polar opposite of how platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or WhatsApp operate. These companies own, moderate, and control everything on their platforms.

Not convinced? Here’s some reasons why decentralised platforms are becoming popular:

Better privacy & control since you aren’t subjected to aggressive data collection practices or limited privacy options typically found on commercial platforms.

Most decentralised platforms do not have ads, which many users appreciate, and their code and development processes are open-source, ensuring transparency.

The open-source nature and decentralised nature of these networks allows for customisation that you wouldn’t otherwise expect. Interoperability, for example, brings the ability to bridge different communication platforms with Matrix, like Telegram, WhatsApp, and iMessage. Exchanging messages all in one app.

Introducing

Matrix is a (decentralised) network for communication; ie sending & receiving messages, or voice and video calling. You typically start by choosing a ‘home’ server for your account to live on, which could be based on where you live or perhaps a home your tech-savvy family member has set-up. In a professional context, you might join your company’s server to connect with coworkers and company chats.

What’s unusual at first glance is the variety of apps available for use with Matrix. Since Matrix operates as a non-profit and free-to-use network, developers can create and offer apps for it. Think of these apps as different windows into the same Matrix chat space.

You can find several Matrix-compatible apps in an app store, with Element being a particularly popular choice 😉.

I’ve been communicating on Matrix for several months and I’m pleased with my decision. I especially like that end-to-end encryption means my conversations are private and secure, not stored on a server somewhere in the US, which is the case with many other apps.

It’s also very cool that it’s so open to customisation. I’ve developed a chat room where I can talk with ChatGPT, and another one that notifies me when a holiday I booked has become cheaper than I originally paid. Got to love those holiday price-match promises.

I’m not the only one it seems.. Matrix has around 111 million users and 64,256 homes hosting conversations — and those are just the ones we know about! Of course you retain control over who can contact you, based on the rooms or home you join.

Hopefully thats given you a flavour of decentralisation and what Matrix is, I’m looking forward to seeing how it evolves and being a part of the journey 🚀

In my next article, I’ll provide a guide on how to set up your own Matrix (Synapse) home server.

Until then, feel free to chat with me on Matrix!

Links

Find out more about [Matrix] at Matrix.org .

Learn more about Element - the founders of Matrix & builders of popular Matrix apps.