OpenChat rolls out frontend update as iOS development begins

OpenChat has released a major frontend update aimed at improving performance and reducing memory use, while development has now begun on a native iOS version of the platform.

The team said the latest frontend release follows a broader clean-up of the OpenChat codebase, which has been maintained and developed over several years. The work has focused on performance and memory improvements, with users being encouraged to try the updated version and share whether they notice a difference.

The move to iOS is at an early stage, with the team describing the project as “just breaking ground”. Developers expect some of the same challenges encountered with the Android version, particularly around limiting the feature set to meet app store requirements.

OpenChat said its experience with Android means the team has a clearer understanding of the technical challenges involved in preparing the iOS version. It also said much of the underlying work required for the new application is already in place.

The team has previously indicated that several features will need to be disabled initially to give the app a better chance of meeting app store requirements. Users who want access to the full feature set will continue to have a manual APK option for Android.

The latest Android release is available through the project’s GitHub repository, while the updated web platform can be accessed at oc.app.

OpenChat’s approach means the app store versions may initially offer a more limited experience, while users who install the manual Android release can continue to access the broader set of features.