Jamie is a free, Libre, end-to-end encrypted, and private communication software designed to give users control over their digital interactions. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture, eliminating the need for central servers common in most messaging apps. This P2P model means messages travel directly between devices, enhancing privacy and potentially reducing latency. To manage communication when users are offline, Jamie utilizes ‘Rendezvous Points,’ which act as facilitators for devices to find each other without storing message data. The software is available on major platforms and requires no personal information for account creation, ensuring inherent anonymity. Key features include instant messaging, audio and video calls, group chats, and video conferencing, all handled without third-party hosting services. Jamie also functions as a SIP client, potentially bridging its P2P network with traditional internet telephony. A significant advantage of its distributed nature is resilience, allowing communication within local networks even if the main internet connection fails, making it resistant to censorship and single points of failure. Furthermore, Jamie is committed to being ad-free and offers unlimited features, with file size and speed limited only by the user’s own connection and device. Security is bolstered by perfect forward secrecy (PFS), ensuring that even if a key is compromised, past and future communications remain secure. Jamie received the Social Benefit Award at the FSF’s Libra Planet Awards in 2023, recognizing its privacy-focused model. The project is actively developed, relying on donations to continue its mission of providing secure and private communication tools.
