Kontalk

Free#33 of 36 in Secure Messaging AppsEncrypted Messaging Apps

Kontalk: A free, open-source XMPP messenger with phone-number identity, now discontinued. Ranked #33 of 36 in Secure Messaging Apps by our editors (5.8/10); pricing: Free plan; best for simple open-source XMPP messaging.

5.8/10★★★☆☆Editor score

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Kontalk5.8 View Kontalk

At a glance

• Editor score
  5.8 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Simple open-source XMPP messaging
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Facts checked
  21 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • End-to-end encrypted messaging is enabled by default
  • Open-source client and server software
  • Community-operated, distributed XMPP network

• Where it doesn't

  • Kontalk is discontinued
  • The published platform support centers on Android and desktop
  • Its verified feature set is narrower than broader messaging apps

Our verdict on Kontalk

Kontalk is a free, open-source messaging network for people who want encrypted communication built around phone-number identification. It supports end-to-end encrypted messaging through an XMPP-based network, with an Android client and desktop client listed. Its community-operated structure and open client and server software make it a fit for users who value inspectable software and a distributed service model over a broad consumer feature set.

The product’s strongest technical identity comes from its combination of default encryption, XMPP, and phone-number-based user identification. XMPP gives Kontalk a standards-based messaging foundation, while the community-operated network distinguishes it from services centered on a single commercial operator. The open-source model also covers both client and server software, which matters to users evaluating how the service is built and operated. This focused design suits straightforward text messaging across supported clients rather than a wide communications suite.

The decisive consideration is service status: Kontalk entered an end-of-life period, and the service was expected to shut down before the end of 2024. It is therefore a discontinued product rather than a current choice for dependable messaging. Users researching open-source XMPP software may still find its architecture relevant, but anyone choosing a service for ongoing communication should select an active alternative instead. Kontalk fits historical or project-focused evaluation better than present-day deployment, especially for buyers who need continued availability, a larger feature range, or a currently maintained messaging platform.

Your product? Our editors can test Kontalk in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

Kontalk pricing

Kontalk fact sheet

Alternatives to Kontalk

• SignalFree, open-source messaging with encrypted calls, groups, and optional paid backups.9.4
• WWhatsAppA broadly available free messenger with strong everyday privacy features and wide platform support.9.3
• ElementA secure, extensible collaboration app for teams that need control and interoperability.9.1

See all Kontalk alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

Kontalk is listed in our Secure Messaging Apps directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.

Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update