Delta Chat

Sato SatsSato Sats
Jan 2, 2026
Jan 2, 2026

Introduction - Chat Control and Privacy

In recent years there has been increasing talk of Chat Control, a regulatory proposal that aims to introduce automatic scanning of private messages on major communication platforms. The stated goal is to combat illegal content, the problem is that this mechanism would in fact involve mass surveillance, going to undermine end-to-end encryption and thus the privacy of all users, not just offenders.
The real risk is that chats become controlled environments, where every message, image, or attachment could be scrutinized before it even reaches the recipient. And this is where one possible solution comes in: move away from centralized platforms and toward decentralized messaging systems, which are not dependent on a single provider and cannot easily be subjected to this kind of scrutiny.
One such solution will be presented in this tutorial: Delta Chat. A mature and already usable tool.

Why Delta Chat and how it works

Delta Chat is an already very good messaging solution for everyday use: very useful for talking to friends, family and other people, just like a true equivalent of WhatsApp.
It is a decentralized messaging system based entirely on email. It basically leverages the infrastructure of traditional email, but building a modern instant messenger interface and experience on top of it. At first glance this may seem a bit improvisational, but it actually works very well and is surprisingly robust. You can use dedicated mail servers called ChatMail, but it can also work seamlessly with regular email servers. This means that you can log in with an existing account if you want, without having to create anything new.
Another highlight is support for WebXDCs, which are small Web applications that can be used directly inside chats, similar to the mini-apps in Telegram. The important difference is that these apps do not have Internet access, so they cannot track the user or send data externally.
From a security perspective, Delta Chat uses verified end-to-end encryption, based on PGP but with modern extensions that make it comparable in level of protection to Signal. The only current lack is Perfect Forward Secrecy, but that is an evolving aspect.
Being based solely on email, Delta Chat avoids it altogether:
  • mandatory phone numbers
  • Centralized IDs
  • registrations linked to a single service
And that is what makes this tool very resistant to invasive regulations such as Chat Control.

Installation

From the official website of Delta Chat you can go to the Download section. On Linux it is conveniently available through Flathub, but there are also packages for Arch, NixOS, Snap and standalone versions.
It is also available for:
If you are looking for a guide to install F-Droid, this tutorial might help you:
f-droid
F-DroidThe catalog of free and open-source applications.
One very important thing: desktop versions do not require a phone. Unlike WhatsApp or SimpleX Chat, you do not need to register from mobile first. You can create your profile directly on PC or transfer it from another device.

Profile creation

Once the app is open, Delta Chat asks whether to create a new profile or use an existing one.
By creating a new profile you can enter:
  • a name
  • an image (optional)
A ChatMail server is proposed by default, but it is possible:
  • choose another ChatMail server
  • use a classic email account
  • manually configure IMAP and SMTP
  • register using another user's invitation code
After a few seconds, the profile is ready and you can start using the app.

Interface and chat

The interface is very simple and straightforward:
  • Device messages, which are local communications
  • Saved messages, similar to those in Telegram and synchronizable between devices
To add a contact simply:
  • Showing your QR code
  • Scan the other person's
  • Invite via link (share invitation link).
Once the connection is established, end-to-end encryption is automatically configured. The chat user interface is very similar to that of WhatsApp:
  • text and voice messages
  • photos, videos and files
  • responses to messages
  • reactions
  • pop-up messages
  • customizable notifications.

WebXDC: apps in chats:

Delta Chat allows the use of WebXDC, i.e., small applications embedded in conversations. Here is a short list of the most useful ones identified:
  • surveys
  • drawing boards
  • temporary private chats
  • games with shared chat scores
More complex games can also be started, which demonstrates the flexibility of this tool.

Groups, channels and advanced features

You can create groups, use stickers (especially on desktops) and, by activating the experimental options, even channels, similar to those in Telegram.
In the advanced settings you can turn on:
  • voice calls (still experimental)
  • advanced email profile management
  • full backups.

Multidevice and backup

Delta Chat fully supports multidevice:
  • you can add a second device via QR code
  • you can perform a full transfer via backup.
In seconds you will find your chats, groups and complete history again, without depending on a central server.

Conclusion

At a time when there is increasing talk of controlling private communications, Delta Chat represents a concrete answer: decentralized, encrypted messaging that is truly usable every day.
It is the solution that, of all the ones I have tried, has convinced me the most for simplicity, privacy and freedom. If you want, you can also contact me on Delta Chat via the following invitation link
If you enjoyed this guide, you can support me by donating and leaving a thumbs up. And remember: only by using and exploring Delta Chat from both mobile and desktop will you really discover its full functionality.
Until next time.
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Author

This tutorial has been written by Sato Sats

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