User Manual

Element Desktop (computer).

A dedicated Element app for Windows, Mac or Linux.

Why use it

  • It runs on its own, so you get messages with your browser closed.
  • Desktop notifications.
  • You get everything Element offers. Not everything in Element is in the M8Chat app, so this is a good choice if you use both.
  1. Step 1

    Download Element Desktop

    Go to element.io/download and choose your system: Windows (installer), macOS (disk image) or Linux (AppImage, .deb or Flatpak). Install it like any other program.

    On the download page choose “Element”. The desktop app is called Element, not Element X.

  2. Step 2

    Click "Sign In"

    Do not click “Create Account”. Your account already exists.

  3. Step 3

    Change the homeserver

    The homeserver must be matrix.m8chat.au. The default is wrong.

    • Click “Edit” next to the homeserver.
    • Type matrix.m8chat.au and click “Continue”.
  4. Step 4

    Sign in

    Use the same username and password as m8chat.au.

  5. Step 5

    Verify this device

    If you already have a Security Phrase or Security Key (from Element Web or your phone), enter it. If not, set one up the way Element Web shows.

  6. Step 6

    Start chatting

    Your chats appear in the left panel. Desktop notifications are on by default.

If something goes wrong

Which one do I download?

Choose “Element” for the desktop. “Element X” is the phone app.

It will not connect

Check your internet, then check the homeserver is matrix.m8chat.au.

My password does not work

Check the homeserver first. Then reset your password.

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