I think matrix / element are already working and very usable BUT what is needed is that big push to add the polish. I agree with others here, the matrix project would do well to realise that it’s a great contender for being a discord replacement and set about bulking up with some of the most loved features on discord.

A polished ui and a couple of fav discord features onto the product milestone plan and I think matrix adoption would start to really pick up.

Some interesting things are cooking on the Matrix front. The "Matrix state of the union" talk at FOSDEM is a compact recap: https://fosdem.org/2026/schedule/event/URX89L-matrix-state-o...