RIOT for Web

Quick overview

Element is an open-source chat application developed by New Vector Limited. Previously called Riot (and Vector before that), it’s a messaging platform built around privacy and interoperability. Element supports end-to-end encrypted conversations, one-to-one and group voice and video calls, and both public and private group rooms.

Core capabilities

• Advanced collaboration features geared toward teams and organizations
• Secure file and media sharing inside chats
• Real-time voice and video calling for individuals and groups
• Flexible room types: private direct messages or open public communities
• End-to-end encryption for message confidentiality
• Federation via the Matrix standard, allowing communication across different providers
• The option to run your own server to keep full control over your data

Decentralization and control

Element is built on the Matrix protocol, which is an open standard for federated messaging. That means conversations can be routed through many independently-operated servers rather than being locked inside a single company’s infrastructure. You can use public servers, subscribe to hosted/premium offerings, or deploy a personal homeserver at home or on a cloud provider to retain ownership of your information.

If you want to exchange messages with people on other networks (for example, bridging to services like WhatsApp or Signal), Matrix bridges make that possible — but bridging usually requires additional configuration and, in many cases, a private server to manage the connection reliably.

Usability and potential improvements

Element provides most features expected from contemporary messaging platforms and is generally straightforward to use. That said, the interface can feel less polished and offers fewer visual customization options compared with some mainstream competitors. New users may also encounter extra setup steps when self-hosting or enabling advanced federation and bridge functionality.

Final assessment

Overall, Element is a robust, privacy-focused messaging option that balances strong security with useful collaboration tools. It’s a good fit if you want decentralized control and interoperability across networks, and you’re willing to tolerate a bit more configuration and a less flashy UI in exchange for greater data ownership. Give it a try to see if it matches your needs.