§2024-08-28

• Comparable software like "Line"

  • Matrix: Matrix is an open standard for decentralized communication. Clients like Element (formerly Riot) allow you to use Matrix for secure and private messaging. Matrix can also be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data.
  • XMPP (Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol): XMPP is another open standard for messaging. Various XMPP clients like Conversations (for Android) and Pidgin (for desktop) support this protocol. XMPP also allows for self-hosting.
  • Jitsi: For video calls and conferencing, Jitsi is a great open-source option. It supports messaging and can be self-hosted as well.
  • Zulip: Zulip is an open-source team chat application with unique threading features. It’s designed to handle large volumes of messages efficiently and can be self-hosted.

Matrix (Element): Available on iOS and Android. Zimbra: No dedicated mobile apps; use standard email/calendar apps. Jitsi: Available on iOS and Android. Zulip: Available on iOS and Android. Rocket.Chat: Available on iOS and Android.

Summary of Other Platforms

Matrix: Typically runs on Synapse (the reference implementation) which is written in Python. The backend database options include PostgreSQL or SQLite, rather than MongoDB. Zimbra: Uses Java for its server components and MySQL/MariaDB for its database. It does not use Node.js or MongoDB. Jitsi: Jitsi Meet (the video conferencing component) is built with JavaScript and React, but it uses XMPP for messaging and does not use Node.js or MongoDB for its core functionality. It relies on other databases depending on the component (e.g., PostgreSQL). Zulip: Built with Python and uses PostgreSQL as its database. It does not utilize Node.js or MongoDB.

To enable and configure telecommunication features in Rocket.Chat, such as video conferencing, voice calls, and screen sharing, you'll need to follow these steps:

1. Ensure Proper Installation Before enabling telecommunication features, make sure you have a working Rocket.Chat installation. This can be either self-hosted or using Rocket.Chat Cloud.

2. Enable Video Conferencing Rocket.Chat supports video conferencing through integrations with third-party services like Jitsi Meet or its own video conferencing module.

Using Jitsi Meet Integration: Install the Jitsi Integration:

Go to your Rocket.Chat server’s administration panel. Navigate to Administration > Apps and search for the Jitsi Meet app. Install the Jitsi Meet app and follow the instructions to configure it. You may need to provide the URL for your Jitsi Meet server. Configure Jitsi Meet:

In the Rocket.Chat administration panel, go to Administration > Video Conference. Enter the URL of your Jitsi Meet server. Adjust settings as necessary to fit your requirements. Test Video Calls:

Start a conversation in Rocket.Chat and look for the video call option. Ensure that it launches Jitsi Meet for video conferencing. Using Rocket.Chat’s Built-in Video Conferencing (Beta Features): Enable Video Conferencing:

Go to Administration > Settings. Under Video Conference, enable the relevant settings. Configure the available options for video conferencing, such as meeting room names, integration options, etc. Test the Feature:

Start a conversation and use the video call button to test if the video conferencing feature works. 3. Enable Voice Calls Voice calling features can be integrated via WebRTC in Rocket.Chat:

Check for WebRTC Support:

Ensure that your Rocket.Chat installation supports WebRTC. This should be enabled by default, but you can check under Administration > Settings > Voice and Video Calls. Configure WebRTC Settings:

Go to Administration > Settings > Voice and Video Calls. Adjust settings to enable WebRTC support for voice calls. Test Voice Calls:

Start a direct message or group chat and use the call button to initiate a voice call. 4. Enable Screen Sharing Screen sharing is typically available through video conferencing integrations like Jitsi Meet:

Ensure Integration is Set Up:

If you’re using Jitsi Meet or another third-party integration that supports screen sharing, make sure it’s properly configured. Check Screen Sharing Settings:

In the administration panel, ensure that screen sharing options are enabled under the video conferencing settings. Test Screen Sharing:

Initiate a video call and check if the screen sharing option is available and functioning. 5. Additional Settings and Troubleshooting Update Rocket.Chat: Ensure you are using the latest version of Rocket.Chat, as updates may include improvements or fixes for telecommunication features. Check Browser Compatibility: Make sure that users are using compatible browsers that support WebRTC and video conferencing features. Review Documentation: Refer to Rocket.Chat’s official documentation and support resources for detailed setup guides and troubleshooting tips. By following these steps, you should be able to enable and configure telecommunication features in Rocket.Chat, providing a full suite of communication tools for your organization.