Converse

Converse is an open-source XMPP chat application that operates entirely on the client side. It functions as a web application accessible through a browser, but it is also available as a desktop application via Converse Desktop or Converse Tauri. The software allows users to communicate via the XMPP protocol and can be deployed as a standalone single-page application, integrated into existing websites as an overlay, or embedded as a component within a page's DOM. It supports both registered accounts and anonymous login if the connected server permits it.

Users can set up their own instance by cloning the repository and building the project with npm. Once deployed, the application provides a comprehensive interface for real-time messaging without requiring a native client installation. The software is designed to be responsive, ensuring that the user interface adapts to both desktop and mobile devices. It provides a variety of display modes to suit different integration needs, from a full-page experience to a small chat box that sits on top of other web content.

Key features

• End-to-end encryption using OMEMO
• Multiple UI modes including full-page, overlay, and embedded
• Support for HTTP File Upload for sharing files
• Message styling, corrections, reactions, and URL previews
• Desktop notifications for incoming messages
• Plugin architecture based on pluggable.js
• Internationalization support for over 40 languages
• Custom status messages and availability indicators

Converse is designed for users who require a protocol-compliant XMPP client that operates within a web environment. It implements over 45 XMPP Extension Protocols (XEPs), ensuring broad compatibility with various XMPP servers. Key protocol supports include Multi-user Chat (XEP-0045), Message Archive Management (XEP-0313), and Stream Management (XEP-0198). For security, the application delegates OMEMO encryption to the libomemo.js library. The architecture is extensible, allowing for additional functionality through its plugin system.

This tool serves as a flexible interface for the XMPP ecosystem, providing a browser-based entry point for encrypted communication.