Chatto: Hendrik Mans Launches New Open-Source, Self-Hosted Group Chat with End-to-End Encryption, Reaches #3 on Hacker News

Introducing Chatto: A New Open-Source Communication Platform

Independent developer Hendrik Mans released Chatto, a new open-source, self-hosted group chat platform, on July 8, 2026. This platform offers end-to-end encrypted voice/video calls, screen sharing, and per-user encryption at rest, quickly reaching #3 on Hacker News with over 800 points and 200+ comments. For broader context, explore our AI News.

Key Features and Deployment

Chatto is designed for straightforward deployment across various operating systems. It offers a single-binary installation for Linux, macOS, and Windows environments, and can also be installed via Homebrew. This approach simplifies the setup process for users looking to host their own communication infrastructure. The platform's emphasis on security is evident through its core features, including end-to-end encryption for real-time communications and individual user-based encryption for stored data.

Managed Hosting and Future Development

Alongside the self-hosted option, a managed hosting service named Chatto Cloud is slated to enter public beta. This service will operate on European infrastructure, providing an alternative for organizations that prefer a hosted solution without managing their own servers. Looking ahead, a 1.0 release for Chatto is anticipated within the next 6 to 12 months. The development roadmap for this major release focuses on enhancing moderation tools and refining the multi-server client experience. The community can engage with the platform and its developers through the live Chatto HQ server at chat.chatto.run.

Comparison with Existing Platforms

Chatto enters a competitive landscape dominated by established communication platforms. Unlike proprietary solutions such as Slack, Discord, and Microsoft Teams, Chatto's open-source and self-hosted nature aligns it more closely with platforms like Mattermost and Rocket.Chat. Its focus on end-to-end encryption and per-user data encryption at rest positions it as a strong contender for users prioritizing privacy and control over their communication data. The availability of a managed cloud service also offers flexibility, bridging the gap between fully self-hosted and entirely cloud-based solutions.

Why This Matters for Secure Communication

The release of Chatto provides a new option for individuals and organizations seeking greater control over their digital communications. Its open-source model fosters transparency and community-driven development, while the self-hosting capability allows users to maintain their data on their own infrastructure. The inclusion of robust encryption features addresses growing concerns about data privacy and security in an era where digital interactions are increasingly central to daily operations. The upcoming Chatto Cloud service further expands accessibility, offering a managed solution built on European data privacy standards.

Conclusion

Chatto, launched by Hendrik Mans on July 8, 2026, introduces a new open-source, self-hosted group chat platform with a strong focus on security through end-to-end encryption and per-user data encryption. Its ease of deployment and upcoming managed cloud service provide flexible options for users. With a 1.0 release planned within 6-12 months to enhance moderation and client polish, Chatto is positioned to evolve as a notable player in the secure communication space.

Sources

• https://github.com/chattocorp/chatto
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