Many years ago, the Trillian software program pioneered a method for internet users to manage multiple instant messaging (IM) networks – such as ICQ, AIM, and MSN Messenger – within a unified interface. Now, Eric Migicovsky, the founder of Pebble and a partner at Y Combinator, is revisiting this concept, but with a modern focus on consolidating access to today’s popular chat applications. The newly available app, Beeper, enables users to connect with 15 different messaging services, including WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Instagram and Twitter DMs, Messenger, Skype, Hangouts, and even iMessage, utilizing a few innovative techniques.

Migicovsky states that the initial idea for a universal chat application arose during his time at Pebble, the smartwatch company, prior to its acquisition by Fitbit.

“Our team at Pebble greatly desired the ability to send iMessages, but we were unable to implement it due to the lack of an available iMessage API,” he explains. However, the concept for Beeper gained momentum two years ago when he became aware of a protocol known as Matrix. “Beeper’s entire infrastructure is built upon Matrix, an open-source, federated, and encrypted messaging protocol,” he says.

Migicovsky characterizes Matrix as primarily “a tool for developers,” but believes it is beginning to gain wider acceptance within the developer community. Essentially, Matrix provides an API that allows developers to connect to various chat networks through a “bridge,” which relays messages between different platforms.

“Upon discovering this, I realized we could recreate Trillian using Matrix,” Migicovsky says.

To enable Beeper (formerly known as Nova) to function with the diverse range of chat applications, they developed these connecting “bridges.” The source code for this is also publicly available at Gitlab.com/Nova.

“We believe it’s crucial for users to understand the code they are running, and therefore, it is all open source. Anyone can examine it,” Migicovsky emphasizes.

This open-source nature also allows individuals to avoid the $10 monthly subscription fee for accessing the service. Those with the necessary expertise can run the bridges on their own servers if they prefer.

Integrating all the different chat apps into Beeper presented unique challenges, with iMessage proving to be the most complex. The solution implemented is rather intricate.

Beeper provides users with an older, jailbroken iPhone (an iPhone 4S is used due to its affordability) to serve as the bridge. The software installed on the iPhone accesses and modifies the database file containing your iMessages. The iPhone then encrypts these messages using your personal private key and transmits them across the Beeper network. This ensures that Beeper, the company, cannot access the content of your messages, according to Migicovsky.

This process extends iMessage functionality to users on Android, Windows, and Linux. Alternatively, Mac users with a consistently powered-on device can install a Beeper Mac application to function as the bridge.

Migicovsky expresses confidence that Apple will not attempt to halt the service or pursue legal action.

“What action could they possibly take?,” he asks, posing a rhetorical question.

Even if Apple were to prevent Beeper from supplying jailbroken iPhones, the company could simply direct customers to acquire their own older iPhones from sources like Craigslist. Furthermore, the software itself is open source and operates on a user-owned iPhone, meaning Beeper isn’t directly “hacking” into iMessage.

“Considering the current emphasis on messaging freedom, I believe it would be unwise for Apple to initiate a conflict with its own users,” Migicovsky adds. He also points out that the European Commission is developing legislation, similar to GDPR, that would require companies to open up their messaging platforms to interoperability.

“Once this legislation is enacted, they will be legally prohibited from blocking services like Beeper,” Migicovsky notes.

However, Migicovsky reports that sign-ups for Beeper have exceeded expectations, although he declined to disclose specific numbers. As a result, Beeper is gradually onboarding users. (Due to this phased rollout, we have not yet had the opportunity to evaluate Beeper’s functionality or verify its claims.)

Despite the existing competition, Beeper may possess an advantage due to its understanding of user experience. Pebble, after all, sold over 2 million smartwatches.

Currently, Beeper offers features such as search, snoozing, archiving, and reminders, and is compatible with MacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Looking ahead, Migicovsky envisions a platform that extends beyond simple text and media sharing, similar to other chat applications. The team is building a system that would allow developers to create additional tools and applications on top of Beeper – a concept akin to Gmail’s plugin system. For instance, users could potentially schedule calendar events directly within their chats, or utilize a tool like Clearbit to view a comprehensive history of their interactions with a specific user across different platforms.

Migicovsky refrained from disclosing the financial backing behind Beeper, but when asked if Beeper could represent his next long-term endeavor, he replied, “potentially.”

“I am thoroughly enjoying my role at YC, which is a fantastic experience. I was inspired by the innovative companies I work with to pursue this project. Being a venture capitalist involves engaging with founders who are building and launching exciting new products, and I found myself feeling a bit envious,” he admits.