Open source decentralized messaging protocols?

Hey everyone!

Does anyone have any recommendations for open-source decentralized messaging protocols like Matrix or XMPP?

I'm looking to do some building this summer on top of one of these protocols and would love some recommendations on which ones are best/easiest to work with. Ideally this protocol supports direct messages, group chats, and video calling.

I love all the features of Matrix, but have heard some people say it's kinda a mess to work with? Does anyone have experience with …

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