Converse.js is a free, open-source XMPP/Jabber chat client for the browser. Embed real-time messaging with OMEMO encryption and group chats on any site.
Converse.js is a free, open-source chat client for the XMPP (Jabber) protocol that runs entirely in the browser. Rather than shipping a hosted messaging service, it gives developers a JavaScript library they can embed on any website and connect to a standards-compliant XMPP server they control.
First developed around 2012-2013 by JC Brand and released under the Mozilla Public License v2, Converse.js has grown into the most actively maintained web-based XMPP client available, with a plugin architecture, translations into 40+ languages, and support for modern encryption and messaging extensions.
Converse.js supports one-on-one chat, multi-user chat rooms (MUC), OMEMO end-to-end encryption for both text and shared files, message correction and retraction, moderator and admin tooling for group chats, and multi-device history sync through Message Archive Management (MAM).
It can be deployed as an overlaid chat bubble, an embedded widget inside a page, or a full-page standalone messaging app, and it works with any XMPP server, including self-hosted options like ejabberd, Prosody, and Openfire.
Converse.js is completely free to use, modify, and self-host under the MPLv2 license. There are no subscription tiers, seat limits, or paid upgrades for the client itself; costs are limited to whatever infrastructure is used to run the XMPP server it connects to.
Because the project is community-maintained rather than a commercial company, support is available through community channels, GitHub issues, and paid freelance arrangements with contributors rather than a formal enterprise sales or support tier.
Yes. Converse.js is fully open source under the Mozilla Public License v2 and free to use, self-host, and modify with no subscription cost.
Yes. Converse.js is only the browser-based client; it must connect to a standards-compliant XMPP server such as ejabberd, Prosody, Openfire, or a hosted XMPP provider.
Yes. It supports OMEMO end-to-end encryption for one-on-one chats and encrypted file sharing via XEP-0454.
Yes. It can run as an overlaid chat bubble or embedded widget in addition to a full-page chat application.
Yes, via the companion converse-desktop project, which wraps the web client in Electron for macOS, Windows, and Linux.
It is maintained primarily by creator JC Brand along with community contributors, funded through Open Collective and sponsorships rather than a commercial company.