Matrix.org is seeing a surge in new users as Discord prepares to implement age verification requirements. The open-source communication protocol offers a decentralized alternative to Discord's centralized model, with multiple clients and servers available. Matrix emphasizes that anyone can run their own server while participating in the global network.

However, server administrators must comply with local laws regarding age verification. The matrix.org homeserver has required users to be at least 18 years old since last summer, when it updated its terms to align with the UK's Online Safety Act. Similar legislation has since been introduced in Australia, New Zealand, the EU, with movements in the US and Canada.

While Matrix provides end-to-end encryption, read receipts, and an open protocol that anyone can extend, it lacks some Discord features like game streaming, push-to-talk, and voice channels. The team at Element has focused on public sector deployments to fund development, leaving community-focused features less prioritized. Matrix is working on account portability to help users move between servers more easily, with new Matrix Spec Change proposals expected soon.