Element

Element (formerly Riot and Vector) is a free and open-source software instant messaging client implementing the Matrix protocol. Element supports end-to-end encryption, private and public groups, sharing of files between users, voice and video calls, and other collaborative features with help of bots and widgets. It is available as a web application that can be accessed through any modern web browser, as desktop apps for Windows, Mac, and Linux, and as a mobile app for Android and iOS. History Element was originally known as Vector when it was released from beta in 2016. The app was renamed to Riot in September of the same year. In 2016 the first implementation of the Matrix end-to-end encryption was implemented and rolled out as a beta to users. In May 2020, the developers announced enabling end-to-end encryption by default in Riot for new non-public conversations.