Element Classic

New Vector Limited

About this app

Element Classic is the previous-generation of Element mobile app. Friends, family and communities should use the free and open source Element X app which is faster, easier to use, and more powerful. New users of public sector organisations, enterprises and professional teams users should use the Element Pro app that is built for work and organisations. Element Classic is available at least until the end of 2025 and will receive critical security updates but no further enhancements or new features.

Ratings and reviews

Riot is an open, secure, and decentralized group communication app. I'd say it's kind of like an open source discord, minus the gamer focus. It's really easy to use while also being secure, as it supports end to end encryption. You can even run your own server and connect to everyone else, it's like email where everyone has their own address and some on different servers. Doesn't use much data and notifications work great. Overall, this is an excellent app and I would recommend.

Currently one of the best communications platforms available, however the UI could use a significant overhaul and I believe that alone may be the main reason why it hasn't won over the masses. Kind of a shame, although unsurprising, and in contrast, I actually prefer a small userbase anyway. Nowhere is safe, but RIOT is more secure than most to those who value privacy.

They seem to be improving the phone version of the app. When I first installed the phone apps on my two phones, I couldn't log in for some reason despite correct username & password. Another day, for a reason I don't know, I successfully logged in. I think they updated the app, which fixed it. I verified the second phone & got them both up & running. Improvements need to be in multi-user account environment; particularly verifying a device during its own setup.

What’s new

Main changes in this version: support room v12.
Full changelog: https://github.com/element-hq/element-android/releases