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Group Messaging Solution

GroupMe Replacement With MatrixWhat is Matrix?MatChat, the Client for DumbphonesMatChat Sign In

GroupMe Replacement With Matrix

GroupMe has long been a mainstay for large group communication because of its free SMS service. However, in August 2026, GroupMe began phasing out SMS support.

The Problem?

Now the only option available appeared to be app-based messaging. This was a problem because no app is universally used, and it is especially complex for dumbphone users, some of whom may not be able to install apps.

TelTech and Matrix, The Solution

TelTech, seeing the need for messaging, developed a comprehensive solution for SMS groups. Due to multiple carrier regulations, SMS is highly complex and costly when sending to a group larger than roughly 20 people.

However, due to the high cost of SMS, which is roughly $0.01 per person per message, TelTech was prompted to develop cost-effective app connections.

Matrix is the most reliable connection TelTech offers, and when most users are on the Matrix platform, costs are lowered significantly. Matrix app users are free, and only a few folks need SMS.

This allows a cost-effective and inclusive solution that allows everyone to be in your groups.

What is Matrix?

Matrix is a protocol, similar to email. Its use case is a comparable replacement for WhatsApp.

Matrix by design allows anyone to build their own client app, and anyone to host their own server. WhatsApp is different: its servers are owned by Meta, and the only app is the stock WhatsApp application.

The standard client for Matrix is Element (Element X on phones), and the most used server is matrix.org.


Understanding Matrix and Element

Think of Matrix as being like gmail.com. Many folks have an email address using gmail.com, e.g. [email protected]. The Matrix equivalent is @janedoe:matrix.org.

To read your Gmail, you use an app on your computer or phone, such as the Gmail app, Outlook, or Apple Mail. Any of them can access the same Gmail address.

Element works the same way for a Matrix server. You open the Element app (or MatChat) to access your Matrix messages.



MatChat, the Client for Dumbphones

A number of dumbphones, e.g. the Kyocera E4810, can install apps but do not have a touchscreen. For these phones we have built MatChat, a Matrix client for D-pad phones and dumbphones.

Element is designed for touchscreen smartphones, not button phones. Element also has features such as room discovery that most dumbphone users do not appreciate.

MatChat is designed to be D-pad centric, for low-spec Android phones such as the Kyocera. MatChat also does not support room discovery or browsing for spaces. This makes it a better option for youth and minimalist phone users.



Getting Set Up to Use Matrix and TelTech

Several things are needed:

  1. A Matrix account.
  2. A Matrix client app. Use Element X if you are on a touchscreen phone, and MatChat if you are on a dumbphone. Note that a browser can also be used.
  3. An invite from your TelTech admin.


Matrix Account Setup

Getting your Matrix account is easy. It is best done on a laptop using Element Web, but it can be done in the Element X app as well.

  1. In a browser, go to https://app.element.io/
  2. Choose “Create Account,” then choose your homeserver, most likely matrix.org.
  3. Choose your preferred username, e.g. janedoe. Keep it short and memorable.
  4. Choose a secure password.
  5. Enter your email address and complete the verification steps (and CAPTCHA, if shown). matrix.org requires a verified email.
  6. After sign-in, you will be asked to set up encryption and a recovery key. Keep it in a secure location.
  7. Welcome to Matrix! Send your full Matrix ID (e.g. @janedoe:matrix.org) to your TelTech admin to be added to your groups.



MatChat Sign In

Currently, MatChat does not support signup in the MatChat app. Set up your account on another device with a browser first.

  1. Set up your account using the steps above.
  2. Follow the prompts in MatChat to sign in.
  3. Verify your device to read encrypted messages by going to Options > Settings > Encryption and choosing “Verify with another device.” If you don’t have another device signed in, use your recovery key instead.
  4. Contact your TelTech admin to be added to your groups.