Siskin IM
Siskin IM: A free, open-source iOS XMPP client with calls, rooms, files, and optional OMEMO. Ranked #26 of 44 in Encrypted Messaging Apps by our editors (6.6/10); pricing: Free plan; best for iOS users needing a simple XMPP client.
At a glance
- Editor score6.6 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best foriOS users needing a simple XMPP client
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Encryption coverageMixed
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source with no paid tier
- Supports messaging, rooms, files, voice, and video calls
- Multiple accounts and archive sync across iPhone and iPad
Where it doesn't
- Available only on iOS
- OMEMO encryption is optional rather than enabled by default
- Requires an XMPP account or supported-server registration
Our verdict on Siskin IM
Siskin IM is a free, open-source XMPP messaging client for iPhone and iPad from Tigase, Inc. It is intended for iOS users who already have an XMPP account or want to register one with a supported server. The app covers one-to-one and group messaging, chatroom creation and joining, photo and file sharing, voice and video calls, push notifications, and multiple XMPP accounts. Message archives can be accessed and synchronized across iPhone and iPad.
Its main advantage is breadth within the XMPP ecosystem. Siskin IM combines everyday messaging with chatrooms, media sharing, calls, and archive synchronization instead of focusing only on text conversations. In-band account registration can help users begin from the app, while support for multiple accounts suits people who maintain more than one XMPP identity. XMPP compatibility also makes the client relevant to users choosing services based on that protocol rather than a single closed messaging network.
Privacy-conscious buyers should pay attention to the encryption model. OMEMO end-to-end encryption is available for supported conversations, but it is optional rather than enabled by default for all chats, so encryption settings matter when choosing how to communicate. Siskin IM is also limited to iOS, with no desktop app. Pick it if you want a free XMPP client on iPhone or iPad with calls, rooms, files, and account flexibility. Choose another option if you need a desktop client or want encryption to be the default experience.
Your product? Our editors can test Siskin IM in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $99/mo →
Siskin IM pricing
Siskin IM fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Encryption coverage | Mixed |
| Maximum group size | Not verified |
| Linked device limit | Not verified |
| Desktop app | Yes |
| Voice and video calls | Yes |
| Disappearing messages | Not verified |
| Encrypted backups | Not verified |
| Deployment | Mobile, Desktop |
| Platforms | iOS, macOS |
| Support | Community |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | siskin.im |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Siskin IM
- SignalA free, private messaging app with broad calling, sharing, and platform support.9.4
- WhatsAppA free, feature-rich choice for encrypted everyday messaging and calls.9.3
- ElementEncrypted collaboration with flexible deployment, open source foundations, and broad platform support.9.1
See all Siskin IM alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Siskin IM is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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