Hi everyone

Welcome to the latest edition of your pseudo-monthly JMP update!

In case it’s been a while since you checked out JMP, here’s a refresher: JMP lets you send and receive text and picture messages (and calls) through a real phone number right from your computer, tablet, phone, or anything else that has a Jabber client.  Among other things, JMP has these features: Your phone number on every device; Multiple phone numbers, one app; Free as in Freedom; Share one number with multiple people.

This month begins JMP’s 2026 referral event! From now until June 1st, everyone you refer to JMP rewards you triple! That’s three free months of service for every person who signs up and pays.

For those who haven’t explored the referral system much, a short refresher on how it works. In your account settings there is a command Refer a friend for free credit. You will be presented with a message that reads like so:

This code will provide credit equivalent to one month of service to anyone after they sign up and pay: CODE These remaining codes are single use and give the person using them a free month of JMP service. You will receive credit equivalent to one month of service after someone uses any of your codes and their payment clears.

When someone uses this code during their signup process with JMP, they will sign up and pay as usual. But after they pay, they will get a free month deposited to their initial balance as well. Once their payment clears (about 90 days for a credit card transaction) your account will also get a month’s worth of credit deposited. Except for referrals which reward during this event, it will be three months! This code is appropriate for publishing publicly and can be used over and over again.

Under this message in the command result is a list of invite codes. If you are out of invite codes, you can always ask JMP support for more as well. These codes are each single-use and give the one person who uses them a free month of JMP service right away. They don’t pay anything. Then, if they pay, and once their payment clears (about 90 days for a credit card transaction) your account will also get a month’s worth of credit deposited. Except for referrals which reward during this event, it will be three months! These codes are appropriate for giving to trusted friends or family members, and each code can only be used once.

To learn what’s happening with JMP between newsletters, here are some ways you can find out:

• The chatroom remains the heart of the community.  You can also join from your web browser or from Matrix.
• The blog, where you may be reading this. Can also be followed in a client like Movim.
• The Lemmy Community
• The Subreddit
• On ATProtocol
• On Twitter

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful rest of your week!

Hi everyone!

Welcome to the latest edition of your pseudo-monthly JMP update!

In case it’s been a while since you checked out JMP, here’s a refresher: JMP lets you send and receive text and picture messages (and calls) through a real phone number right from your computer, tablet, phone, or anything else that has a Jabber client.  Among other things, JMP has these features: Your phone number on every device; Multiple phone numbers, one app; Free as in Freedom; Share one number with multiple people.

End of a Year

Wow, another year has come and gone. Not many newsletters this year, but rest assured we’ve just been too busy building to write! We know one of the biggest questions we get every year is about a Cheogram-like app for other platforms, and this year we’ve come much closer to having two more of those ready for release, besides also maintaining everything you’ve already come to know and love. Below are a few highlights.

Port-out PIN Self-Service

Users can now set their own port-out PIN through the account settings bot, only shown to users with a number eligible for automatic set up (#fe75c33, #a953751, #a18b326).

Data-Only Registration

Support for data plan registration during sign-up process without a phone number (#5cdf6c0).

Cheogram WWW

We’ve been working for years on a browser-based Progressive Web App client for the Cheogram family, based on Borogove. Community members have been testing various versions of this under many names, but this fall we finally began alpha testing under the Cheogram WWW name at app.cheogram.com. Expect more to come for this app, but it is already very usable for many of the needs JMP customers have, including a Command UI / “app” view for account settings. It is also one of the only browser-based apps with native multi-account support.

You’ll note above I said “browser-based” and not quite “web app”. There is no server side component required for this app, as it connects directly to your Jabber service. This requires a special browser protocol to be supported by the service, and a few other things are needed for it to work very well. Of course we’ve worked with Snikket to make sure their offering supports everything needed for a best in class experience and more.

This app works well in a desktop/laptop/tablet form factor, but also has a mobile-optimized view. Along with support for Web Push notifications (if supported by your Jabber service; of course latest Snikket has support) this can make it a viable option on mobile platforms without a good native solution yet (to try this on iOS you’ll need to use the “add to home screen” option for notifications to work). The biggest limitation for Web Push is it cannot make a device “ring” so if you get a call while the app is not open you’ll get only a simple notification like for a message which is not always ideal.

Cheogram iOS

Also in alpha testing starting earlier this fall is Cheogram iOS. Also based on Borogove but with a native Swift UI and deeper OS integration than the PWA can muster, this app is still in a bit of an earlier stage than Cheogram WWW, but some very adventurous people are daily driving it already. Come by the community chat if you want a TestFlight link.

Distribution for Cheogram Apps

Cheogram apps area also making some changes to official distribution mechanisms. For Android the most recommended and official distribution will of course remain F-Droid. And for people who need it the app will remain available on Play Store as well. Pre-release debug builds will still be distributed in the community and custom repo. So what is changing? There will no longer be official distribution of debug APK builds tied to releases. This practise has, quite honestly, been confusing to many people who expect release-tied builds to be release builds. Releases will now come with official distribution of first-party release builds for sale at itch.io (free to JMP customers or with a free JMP month for non customers along with the purchase). Builds of future Cheogram app releases (including Cheogram WWW, desktop, etc. releases) will also be available as part of the itch.io package. Android apps from itch.io can be kept up to date using Mitch.

Other alternative app stores and distributions we have supported in the past (such as Aptoide) will no longer be official.

Unfortunately this does mean that anyone running the release-tied debug builds will either need to move to pre-release or to the new release builds in order to get updates.

Selected Recent Cheogram Android Changes

UI Improvements

• Default options in command grids look less like headers (#b156e93)
• Fixed account colors on item lists including start conversation (#957df4f)
• Reorganized contact details layout for better narrow device support (#8780945)
• “Manage Phone Accounts” button now scrollable (in list footer) (#b3bcfbb)

Chat & Messaging

• Users can now see themselves in group chat participants list (#f240e52)
• Can view own hats/roles in conference details (#3984516)
• Improved button labels in group chat context menus (#37c504b)
• Enhanced call failure UI with more informative displays (#4985523)

Connectivity

• Fixed backup import functionality (#575cdff)
• Improved password change flow for unlocked accounts (#8863066)

Stability

• Fixed numerous crashes (null pointer exceptions, binder proxy issues) (#5059358, #979ba82, #cafbf17)
• Improved file input stream operations (#6065d1b)

Group Chat

• Added workaround for Snikket’s unavailable presence handling (#7e157f5)
• Fixed menu handling on tablets (duplicate actions issue) (#c2c37f2)
• Better JID escaping for improved compatibility (#b11972b)

QR/Barcode

• Enhanced barcode compatibility (use ASCII where possible) (#e68d564)

To learn what’s happening with JMP between newsletters, here are some ways you can find out:

• The chatroom remains the heart of the community.  You can also join from your web browser or from Matrix.
• The blog, where you may be reading this. Can also be followed in a client like Movim.
• The Lemmy Community
• The Subreddit
• On ATprotocol
• On Twitter

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful rest of your week!

Hi everyone!

Welcome to the latest edition of your pseudo-monthly JMP update!

In case it’s been a while since you checked out JMP, here’s a refresher: JMP lets you send and receive text and picture messages (and calls) through a real phone number right from your computer, tablet, phone, or anything else that has a Jabber client.  Among other things, JMP has these features: Your phone number on every device; Multiple phone numbers, one app; Free as in Freedom; Share one number with multiple people.

As we approach the close of 2024, we want to take a moment to reflect on a year full of growth, innovation, and connection. Thanks to your support and engagement, JMP has continued to thrive as a service that empowers you to stay connected with the world using open standards and flexible technology. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights that made this year so special:

Cheogram Android

Cheogram Android, which we sponsor, experienced significant developments this year. Besides the preferred distribution channel of F-Droid, the app is also available on other platforms like Aptoide and the Amazon Appstore. It was removed from the Google Play Store in September for unknown reasons, and after a long negotiation has been restored to Google Play without modification.

Cheogram Android saw several exciting feature updates this year, including:

• Major visual refresh
• Animated custom emoji
• Better Reactions UI (including custom emoji reactions)
• Widgets powered by WebXDC for interactive chats and app extensions
• Initial support for link previews
• The addition of a navigation drawer to show chats from only one account or tag
• Allowing edits to any message you have sent

This month also saw the release of 2.17.2-3 including:

• Fix direct shares on Android 12+
• Option to hide media from gallery
• Do not re-notify dismissed notifications
  
• Experimental extensions support based on WebXDC
• Experimental XEP-0227 export support

Of course nothing in Cheogram Android would be possible without the hard work of the upstream project, Conversations, so thanks go out to the devs there as well.

eSIM Adapter Launch

This year, we introduced the JMP eSIM Adapter—a device that bridges the gap for devices without native eSIM support, and adds flexibility for devices with eSIM support. Whether you’re travelling, upgrading your device, or simply exploring new options, the eSIM Adapter makes it seamless to transfer eSIMs across your devices.

Engaging with the Community

This year, we hosted booths at SeaGL, FOSSY, and HOPE, connecting with all of you in person. These booths provided opportunities to learn about our services, pay for subscriptions, or purchase eSIM Adapters face-to-face.

Addressing Challenges

In 2024, we also tackled some pressing industry issues, such as SMS censorship. To help users avoid censorship and gain access to bigger MMS group chats, we’ve added new routes that you can request from our support team.

As part of this, we also rolled out the ability for JMP customers to receive calls directly over SIP.

Holiday Support Schedule

We want to inform you that JMP support will be reduced from our usual response level from December 23 until January 6. During this period, response times will be significantly longer than usual as our support staff take time with their families. We appreciate your understanding and patience.

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2025, we’re excited to keep building on this momentum. Expect even more features, improved services, and expanded opportunities to connect with the JMP community. Your feedback has been, and will always be, instrumental in shaping the future of JMP.

To learn what’s happening with JMP between newsletters, here are some ways you can find out:

• The chatroom remains the heart of the community.  You can also join from your web browser or from Matrix.
• The blog, where you may be reading this. Can also be followed in a client like Movim.
• The Lemmy Community
• The Subreddit
• On ATprotocol
• On Twitter

Hi everyone!

Welcome to the latest edition of your pseudo-monthly JMP update!

In case it’s been a while since you checked out JMP, here’s a refresher: JMP lets you send and receive text and picture messages (and calls) through a real phone number right from your computer, tablet, phone, or anything else that has a Jabber client.  Among other things, JMP has these features: Your phone number on every device; Multiple phone numbers, one app; Free as in Freedom; Share one number with multiple people.

JMP at SeaGL

The Seattle GNU/Linux Conference (SeaGL) is happening next week and JMP will be there!  We’re going to have a booth with some of our employees, and will have JMP eSIM Adapters and USB card readers for purchase (if you prefer to save on shipping, or like to pay cash or otherwise), along with stickers and good conversations. :)  The exhibition area is open all day on Friday and Saturday, November 8 and 9, so be sure to stop by and say hi if you happen to be in the area.  We look forward to seeing you!

Cheogram Android in Amazon Appstore

We have just added Cheogram Android to the Amazon Appstore!  And we also added Cheogram Android to Aptoide earlier this month.  While F-Droid remains our preferred official source, we understand many people prefer to use stores that they’re used to, or that come with their device.  We also realize that many people have been waiting for Cheogram Android to return to the Play Store, and we wanted to provide this other option to pay for Cheogram Android while Google works out the approval process issues on their end to get us back in there.  We know a lot of you use and recommend app store purchases to support us, so let your friends know about this new Amazon Appstore option for Cheogram Android if they’re interested!

New features in Cheogram Android

As usual, we’ve added a bunch of new features to Cheogram Android over the past month or so.  Be sure to update to the latest version (2.17.2-1) to check them out!  (Note that Amazon doesn’t have this version quite yet, but it should be there shortly.)  Here are the notable changes since our last newsletter: privacy-respecting link previews (generated by sender), more familiar reactions, filtering of conversation list by account, nicer autocomplete for mentions and emoji, and fixes for Android 15, among many others.

To learn what’s happening with JMP between newsletters, here are some ways you can find out:

• The chatroom remains the heart of the community.  You can also join from your web browser or from Matrix.
• The blog, where you may be reading this. Can also be followed in a client like Movim.
• The Lemmy Community
• The Subreddit
• On ATprotocol
• On Twitter

Hi everyone!

Welcome to the latest edition of your pseudo-monthly JMP update!

In case it’s been a while since you checked out JMP, here’s a refresher: JMP lets you send and receive text and picture messages (and calls) through a real phone number right from your computer, tablet, phone, or anything else that has a Jabber client.  Among other things, JMP has these features: Your phone number on every device; Multiple phone numbers, one app; Free as in Freedom; Share one number with multiple people.

eSIM Adapter

We’ve talked before about the eSIM Adapter, but today we’re excited to announce that we have a good amount of production stock, and you can order the eSIM adapter right now. Existing JMP customers who want to pay with their account balance can also order by contacting support. Have a look at the product launch on Product Hunt as well.

JMP’s eSIM Adapter is a device that acts exactly like a SIM card and will work in any device that accepts a SIM card (phone, tablet, hotspot, USB modem), but the credentials it offers come from eSIMs provided by you. With the adapter, you can use eSIMs from any provider in any device, regardless of whether the device or OS support eSIM. It also means you can move all your eSIMs between devices easily and conveniently. It’s the best of both worlds: the convenience of downloading eSIMs along with the flexibility of moving them between devices and using them on any device.

For JMP Data Plan Physical SIM Owners

Our data plan has always had the choice for a physical SIM. For people who just want the data plan and no other eSIMs this works fine, and we will continue to sell these legacy cards until we run out of stock. However some of you might be wondering if you need to buy an eSIM Adapter now in order to get some of these benefits. The answer might be no! If you order just the USB reader, you can use the app to flash new eSIMs and switch profiles on your existing physical SIM! This isn’t quite as convenient as the full eSIM Adapter, you will need to pop out the SIM and put it into the USB reader even to switch profiles, but it does work for those who have one already.

Cheogram Android

Cheogram Android 2.15.3-3 and 2.15.3-4 have been released. These releases contain some improvements to the embedded “widget” system, funded by NLnet. You can now select from a large list of widgets right in the app. More improvements to this system are coming soon, and if you’re a web-tech developer who is interested in extending people’s chat clients, check out the docs!

Email Gateway

We sponsor the development of an email gateway, Cheogram SMTP, which is also getting better thanks to NLnet. The gateway now supports file attachments on emails, and will soon support sharing widgets with Delta Chat users as well!

To learn what’s happening with JMP between newsletters, here are some ways you can find out:

• The chatroom remains the heart of the community.  You can also join from your web browser or from Matrix.
• The blog, where you may be reading this. Can also be followed in a client like Movim.
• The Lemmy Community
• The Subreddit
• On ATprotocol
• On Twitter

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful rest of your week!

Hi everyone!

Welcome to the latest edition of your pseudo-monthly JMP update!

In case it’s been a while since you checked out JMP, here’s a refresher: JMP lets you send and receive text and picture messages (and calls) through a real phone number right from your computer, tablet, phone, or anything else that has a Jabber client. Among other things, JMP has these features: Your phone number on every device; Multiple phone numbers, one app; Free as in Freedom; Share one number with multiple people.

Access to our new SMS routes is slowly rolling out, with some users having been moved over already. The process of moving people is a bit slower than we’d hoped, but it is coming along. Let support know if this is a priority for you.

The JMP Data Plan has for some time been providing an option for people who want a privacy-conscious mobile data option for small usage. We do receive feedback from time to time that people would like a similar plan built for heavy data users. We are contemplating adding an “unlimited” (100GB full speed, throttled after) plan to the lineup. If this is you, please reach out to us at support or in the chatroom to let us know of your interest. Pricing is still being worked out, but will likely be in the $80-90 per month range. We may also have an option to access JMP voice and SMS services over the SIM if there is interest.

We have quietly rolled out a feature to allow any JMP customer to receive incoming voice calls from only SIP. While Cheogram SIP has allowed calls to your Jabber network app for some time, calls routed to sip:+yournumber@jmp.chat now ring according to your JMP account settings, including going to your JMP voicemail if not answered. This can be useful in conjunction with services that support forwarding to SIP, or from any sip-broker compatible service dial *10869 followed by a JMP number. This includes calling from any phone number in the world using the SIP Broker access numbers.

Cheogram Android 2.15.3-2 was released this month, with bug fixes and new features including:

• Animated custom emoji
• Rich replies, including small image preview and jump-to-parent
• Hide reply quote if it’s just the exact previous message
• Allow storing all media in cache on a per-chat basis
• Optional rich text mode
• Option to auto-download any size on unmetered networks
• Use custom tabs for opening links
• Menu to delete files from media browser
• Bold timestamp on attention messages
• Start a message with @mods to ping active moderators in a channel
• Fix password change
• Fix unbanning users in channel

Come out and see us at FOSSY 2024! JMP will have a booth and several of us will be giving talks as well.

To learn what’s happening with JMP between newsletters, here are some ways you can find out:

• The chatroom remains the heart of the community. You can also join from your web browser or from Matrix.
• The blog, where you may be reading this. Can also be followed in a client like Movim.
• The Lemmy Community
• The Subreddit
• On ATprotocol
• On Twitter

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful rest of your week!