Siskin IM review
A free, open-source iOS XMPP client with calls, rooms, files, and optional OMEMO.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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.
Siskin IM pros and cons
- 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
Siskin IM fact sheet, pricing and score →
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