Element 1.12.13

Element: Secure, Open-Source Messaging Built on Matrix

Element is a polished, open-source chat and collaboration client that runs on the decentralized Matrix protocol. Designed for privacy-first users and organizations, Element combines end-to-end encrypted messaging, voice and video calls, file and screen sharing, and cross-platform clients (web, desktop, Android, iOS) into a single interoperable workspace. Element targets personal users, developers, businesses and public-sector deployments that require digital sovereignty and vendor-neutral federation.

Key features and capabilities

• End-to-end encryption: Strong E2EE using Matrix’s Olm and Megolm cryptographic ratchets, device cross-signing and key verification to protect conversations and prevent impersonation.
• Federation and interoperability: Matrix federation lets organizations run their own servers while communicating with any other Matrix homeserver. Bridges connect Element to Slack, IRC, XMPP and legacy systems for smooth migration and hybrid workflows.
• Voice, video and screen sharing: One-on-one and group voice/video calls with group call optimization and built-in screen sharing for remote meetings and support sessions.
• Rich messaging and collaboration: Persistent rooms, threads, replies, reactions, message editing, markdown support, file attachments, and pinned messages for organized conversations.
• Apps, widgets and integrations: Integrate bots, calendars, automation, and web apps inside rooms via widgets and the Element Apps ecosystem to surface tools where teams already chat.
• Self-hosting and cloud options: Deploy a self-hosted Synapse homeserver for full control or use Element-hosted services (Element Cloud) for fast onboarding and managed hosting with enterprise features.
• Enterprise administration: SSO support, account provisioning, audit logs, room policies and admin controls designed for compliance and secure deployments in business and government settings.
• Cross-platform clients: Official clients include web/desktop (Electron), Element Android (Play Store) and Element iOS / Element X on the App Store, with feature parity and responsive mobile UX for on-the-go collaboration.

Security and privacy highlights

• Open-source transparency: Client and server implementations are open source, enabling independent audits, community review and the ability to modify or self-host code.
• Device verification & key management: Device cross-signing and secure key storage reduce the UX friction of verifying devices and managing encryption keys across multiple endpoints.
• Data residency and control: Self-hosting and Element’s managed hosting allow organizations to meet regulatory requirements and keep data within chosen jurisdictions.

Apps, platform support and mobile experience

• Web & desktop: Fully featured web client and native desktop apps for Windows, macOS and Linux with large-screen collaboration features.
• Android: Official Element apps available on Google Play, optimized for messaging, calls and push notifications with support for low-bandwidth conditions.
• iOS & Element X: Apple App Store hosts Element and Element X with modern UI updates, secure call handling and privacy-respecting background behavior for mobile users.
• Sync and continuity: Messages, read receipts and E2EE keys sync across devices so conversations continue seamlessly between phone, desktop and web sessions.

Getting started and onboarding

1. Create an account on a public Element server or choose a managed Element Cloud account for faster setup and enterprise features.
2. Install the web, desktop or mobile client (links available on element.io/get-started) or register with your organization’s homeserver using SSO.
3. Verify devices and enable E2EE in rooms where confidentiality is required; invite teammates, create rooms, add widgets and configure integrations.

Who should choose Element

• Privacy-conscious individuals: People who want strong encryption, open-source code and control over their data.
• Enterprises and teams: Organizations needing federated communication, SSO, admin tooling and optional hosted services for faster rollout.
• Public sector and regulated industries: Bodies that require data residency, auditability, and hardened deployment options such as air-gapped servers.
• Developers and integrators: Teams building custom bots, bridges or apps that benefit from Matrix’s extensible federation and open APIs.

Performance, support and roadmap

• Continuous development: Active upstream Matrix and Element releases add features like improved group calls, thread semantics and performance optimizations.
• Community and commercial support: Community channels, documentation and commercial support from Element.io help with migration, custom integrations and enterprise SLAs.
• Scalability: Synapse and alternative homeserver implementations support small teams to large federated deployments; managed hosting simplifies scaling.