Replace WhatsApp – Why matrix is a great alternative

WhatsApp has become the standard messenger app for many people. Whether it’s family, friends, sports clubs, or dance groups, important information is often shared exclusively via WhatsApp groups. But this is also where a growing problem lies: those who don’t use WhatsApp are quickly excluded. This is particularly critical for minors, as WhatsApp is officially only allowed for those aged 16 and over, but is still used by many younger children.

At the same time, the app is becoming overloaded with more and more features that have little to do with a simple messenger service. A current example of this is the so-called “channels.”

The problem with WhatsApp’s channels

WhatsApp was originally a streamlined messenger app for private communication. Now, the app is increasingly evolving into a content platform. Channels give users access to content from influencers, brands, and public figures—including questionable challenges, unrealistic beauty ideals, and content that is simply not suitable for children and young people.

This is particularly problematic for minors:

• WhatsApp is used intensively despite age restrictions.
• Peer pressure (“Everyone is there”) plays a major role.
• Clubs and groups often communicate exclusively via WhatsApp.
• With its channels, WhatsApp is now opening up additional worlds of content that parents can hardly control.

Completely avoiding WhatsApp is often unrealistic in practice. This is exactly where Matrix can be an interesting solution.

Matrix as an alternative to the WhatsApp client app

Matrix is not a single messenger, but an open communication protocol. Based on this, there are various client apps, for example:

• Element (desktop)
• Element X (iOS & Android)

These apps completely replace the original WhatsApp client – without channels, without advertising, and without data-hungry meta infrastructure.

The big advantage:
Matrix can be connected to other messengers via so-called bridges.

The compromise: Matrix + WhatsApp Bridge

Since it is hardly possible to move all contacts away from WhatsApp immediately, a WhatsApp bridge is a sensible compromise.

With such a bridge:

• WhatsApp chats remain accessible.
• Messages are displayed directly in the Matrix app.
• You can use WhatsApp without installing the original WhatsApp app.

In addition, other networks can be connected, e.g.:

• Telegram
• Signal
• Slack
• Discord (and many more)

In the end, all chats end up in a single app. In the long term, direct communication should take place via Matrix – the bridges are intended more as a temporary solution.

More than just a replacement: flexibility through plugins

Matrix is extremely flexible. In addition to the open clients, there is a plugin system on the server side that allows missing functions to be retrofitted.

A personal example:
I hate voice messages. Since Element X does not currently offer an integrated transcription function, I installed the gladia-transcribebot plugin on my Matrix server with maubot. I forward a voice message to the bot, and it responds with the text content. Problem solved.

Other “missing” functions can often be circumvented as well:

• Sending GIFs, for example, via the Tenor GIF keyboard on your smartphone.
• Automation, moderation bots, and translations are also possible.
• You still have to tinker a bit at the moment, but there are almost always solutions.

The biggest disadvantage: Matrix is not “ready off the shelf.”

Unfortunately, the biggest drawback of Matrix is not the technology, but the availability of simple offerings for private users.

• Public servers such as matrix.org do not offer a WhatsApp bridge.
• For full control, you need your own Matrix server.

For tech-savvy users, this is easily achievable thanks to the excellent matrix-docker-ansible-deploy playbook (which can even install several bridges and bots) but for laypeople, it’s a real hurdle.

Solution for beginners: etke.cc

For users who are less tech-savvy, there are providers such as https://etke.cc:

• Setting up your own Matrix server
• Usable with multiple accounts and therefore one server can be used with friends or family
• Any bridges (including WhatsApp)
• Optional: Rent a server at the same time

A small VServer is sufficient as a server, e.g.:
approx. €3.99/month (e.g., at Netcup.de)

The service and maintenance of your server by etke.cc costs additionally about 10€/month. This is of course not nothing – but don’t forget:

Nothing is free. With WhatsApp, you pay with your data.
And as mentioned you can share the server and the costs with friends or family.

Conclusion: More control, less coercion

Matrix is a very good option for:

• getting rid of the original WhatsApp client (and its channels)
• making WhatsApp significantly safer for minors
• combining multiple messengers in a single app
• switching to open, privacy-friendly communication in the long term

It would be desirable (besides public institutions not using WhatsApp…) to see more affordable complete packages for private Matrix accounts including WhatsApp Bridge in the future. Until then, Matrix is not a plug-and-play product—but it is a powerful, flexible, and future-proof alternative for anyone who wants more control over their communications.

I am personally in the process of gathering experience with matrix. I am actively using my own matrix server and Element(X) as a replacement for WhatsApp. If you have problems or questions, you’re welcome to ask me.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)