Lightningv0.10.0 · alpha · GPL-3.0-or-later
Lightning writes the interface.The Rust SDK writes the Matrix.
A native desktop Matrix client in Qt 6 and C++20. Group calls with screen sharing that reach Element Call, real threads, Spaces, and search that works inside encrypted rooms. Linux and NixOS first.
How it is put together
C++20 application state, models, routing, policy
matrix-rust-sdk Matrix, E2EE, sync, threads, media
GStreamer voice, video, screen capture
Six things that are unusual
Group calls, with screen sharing
Search inside encrypted rooms
Spaces, and a Channels layout
Threads that are actually threads
A theme editor, not a theme setting
Pictures, video, audio and files
Try the 11 themes
Download
0.10.0 2026-10-01 Release notes →
Linux AppImage and Flatpak carry their own Qt and run anywhere
chmod +x Lightning-0.10.0-x86_64.*pp[Ii]mage && ./Lightning-0.10.0-x86_64.*pp[Ii]mage
flatpak install --user ./lightning_0.10.0_amd64.flatpak
sudo apt install ./lightning_0.10.0_amd64.deb
sudo apt install ./lightning_0.10.0_ubuntu2604_amd64.deb
sudo dnf install ./lightning-0.10.0-1.x86_64.rpm
sudo snap install --dangerous ./lightning_0.10.0_amd64.snap
Needs Qt 6.8+. Neither .deb installs on Ubuntu 24.04, Mint 22.x or Pop!_OS 24.04, nor the .rpm on Fedora 43 — older Qt. Use the AppImage or the Flatpak there; both carry their own.
Windows unsigned — Windows will warn you
double-click Lightning-0.10.0-1e80899-windows-x86_64.msi
run the installer
extract anywhere, run Lightning.exe
macOS Apple Silicon, macOS 26+, ad-hoc signed
unzip, drag Lightning.app to Applications
Every release ships SHA256SUMS, and the updater's manifest is signed.
Say hello
A chill space for anyone using Lightning or curious about it. Bugs and questions both welcome — here or in the issue tracker.
#lightning:matrix.smetonis.net