# Matrix — Chat, Voice & Video Calls

**Matrix** is an open standard for decentralized, end-to-end encrypted messaging. The Nest runs [Synapse](https://matrix.org/docs/projects/server/synapse) as the homeserver, with [MAS](https://github.com/element-hq/matrix-authentication-service) for authentication and [LiveKit](https://livekit.io/) for real-time voice/video calls.

## Access

| Service | URL | Purpose |
|---------|-----|---------|
| **Synapse (Chat)** | <https://starling.mynest.love> | Send messages, join rooms |
| **MAS (Auth)** | <https://mas.mynest.love> | OAuth2 / passkey authentication |
| **Matrix RTC** | <https://matrix-rtc.mynest.love> | Voice and video calls |

## Features

- End-to-end encrypted messaging
- Group rooms with file sharing
- Real-time voice and video calls via WebRTC
- Federation — connect to other Matrix homeservers
- Bot ecosystem for automation (including The Nest's access bot)

## Getting Started

1. Open <https://starling.mynest.love> in your browser or use a Matrix client app.
2. Click **Sign In** and choose **Sign in with The Nest**.
3. You'll be redirected to [sso.mynest.love](https://sso.mynest.love) for passkey authentication.
4. Once authenticated, you're back in Matrix — ready to chat!

## Recommended Clients

- **Element Web** (browser): <https://app.element.io>
- **Element X** (mobile): iOS and Android
- **Nheko** (desktop): Windows, macOS, Linux
- **SchildiChat** (alternative web client)

## Voice & Video Calls

Matrix RTC uses [LiveKit](https://livekit.io/) for WebRTC signaling and media relay. To join a call:

1. Open any Matrix room with an active call.
2. Click the **Call** button in the room header.
3. The call connects via <https://matrix-rtc.mynest.love> — no additional setup needed.

## Tips

- **Passkey login:** You'll only need your passkey for initial authentication. Subsequent logins use your client's stored session.
- **Account recovery:** If you lose all passkeys, contact an admin via Matrix (`@nest:starling.mynest.love`) with your registered email for recovery.
- **Federation:** This homeserver is federated. You can message users on other Matrix servers (e.g., `@user:matrix.org`).

## Related Services

- [Keycloak](../technical/security-and-identity.md) — Powers passkey authentication via MAS
- [Nest Matrix Bot](https://starling.mynest.love) — The `@access-bot` used for service access requests

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*TODO: Add screenshot of Element Web with a sample room open.*