ChatSecure review
A focused iOS XMPP client for users who want open, encrypted messaging.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
ChatSecure is a free, open-source XMPP messaging client for iOS. It suits users who want encrypted conversations through public XMPP services, existing accounts, or their own server rather than a proprietary messaging network. Its ecosystem is built around compatibility: users can communicate with compatible XMPP clients, while XMPP and optional Tor provide the main connection options. The project is distributed under GPLv3+ and maintained through an open-source development model with optional user donations.
The published product model is straightforward: ChatSecure is free, with no paid tiers described. Its security feature set includes OMEMO end-to-end encrypted messaging, OTR with forward secrecy, optional Tor connectivity, TLS certificate pinning, SQLCipher encryption for local conversation logs, and encrypted file transfers for OMEMO or OTR sessions. This combination makes the app more specialized than a general-purpose messenger, particularly for users who already understand or operate within the XMPP ecosystem.
The trade-off is platform and feature scope. ChatSecure is iOS-only, with no official desktop app, and the listed product scope does not include calling, disappearing messages, or backups. The latest listed release is v4.3.6, dated December 11, 2018. Choose ChatSecure if you prioritize open-source iOS messaging, XMPP interoperability, and multiple encryption options. Choose another encrypted messaging app if you need desktop access, calling, disappearing messages, or backups.
ChatSecure pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free and open source under GPLv3+
- Supports OMEMO, OTR, Tor, and certificate pinning
- Encrypted local logs and file transfers
- Where it doesn't
- Available only on iOS
- No official desktop app
- No listed calling, disappearing messages, or backups
ChatSecure fact sheet, pricing and score →
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