Monal review
A free Apple-focused XMPP client with OMEMO encryption, calls, and media sharing.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Monal is a free, open-source XMPP messaging client for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. It is designed for Apple users who want private and group conversations through decentralized, federated XMPP servers. Users choose their own XMPP account provider instead of relying on a Monal-hosted messaging network. The app supports OMEMO-encrypted chats, message history, file and media uploads, push notifications, voice messaging, and audio and video calls.
The product’s strongest fit is its combination of XMPP interoperability and private communication features. OMEMO encryption applies to private and group chats, while multi-user chat support extends beyond one-to-one conversations. Message auto-deletion adds a disposable-message option, and users can also archive message history. File, video, and image uploads, along with push notifications, make Monal suitable for everyday messaging as well as more privacy-focused conversations. XMPP remains the central integration and ecosystem choice, so the account provider and server environment matter to the overall experience.
Monal keeps its pricing simple: the Free plan includes an open-source XMPP messenger with iOS and macOS availability. There are no paid tiers to compare. The main limitation is platform coverage; Monal is built for Apple devices rather than a broad set of desktop and mobile operating systems. It also requires users to select an XMPP account provider, which adds a setup decision compared with services that provide a single hosted network. Choose Monal if you use Apple devices and want free XMPP messaging with OMEMO, calls, media sharing, and auto-deletion. Choose another app if cross-platform availability or a provider-managed account is more important.
Monal pros and cons
- Where it wins
- OMEMO encryption for private and group chats
- Audio, video, and voice messaging support
- Free, open-source apps for iOS and macOS
- Where it doesn't
- Limited to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS
- Requires an XMPP account provider
- Apple-focused rather than cross-platform
Monal fact sheet, pricing and score →
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