this post was submitted on 18 Apr 2025
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In my journey to self hosting and Degoogling, one thing I've missed is being able to access my phone on a computer. Is there a self hosted solution that allows syncing between text messaging and a PC/web interface?

I don't necessarily need a sophisticated Features like customer management or automation. I just want to access my messages from another device, and of course have a server based backup. The ability to reply to messages from the computer is a plus but not necessary. Is there a good option for this?

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[–] [email protected] 7 points 1 week ago (2 children)

For backup check out SMS Backup/Restore. I have 10+ years of sms backup with it, all readable as text or using Excel.

I've never found a good solution to this SMS problem - there's seems to be nothing out there (probably because FOSS devs think SMS needs to die, and I agree).

I did find my solution last year: JMP.chat - I think they're considered a virtual cell provider. Port your number to them, then all your SMS/MMS gets piped into XMPP, which you can access with an XMPP client on any device - Gajim on Windows/Linux, Cheogram and Monocles (plus others) on Android, Snikket and others on iOS. My SMS works even if my phone is off. Prices are really good, so good that I use a different SIM in my phone for a data connection, as I no longer need an SMS/voice connection (calls are routed via VOIP in Cheogram/XMPP).

[–] [email protected] 5 points 1 week ago (1 children)

probably because FOSS devs think SMS needs to die, and I agree

Be that as it may, people send 23 billion text messages every day. If you're at all involved with the public, it's absolutely unavoidable.

[–] [email protected] 0 points 5 days ago* (last edited 5 days ago)

But, no Foss dev wants to do anything about it because SMS sucks balls.

So regardless of how many messages are sent FOSS devs aren't interested.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago) (1 children)

I use SMS Backup/Restore, it saved my ass during my divorce.

I'd love a FOSS version that can handle RCS...

[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 week ago (1 children)

I've had a couple conversations on here about FOSS RCS and it looks like it's just not possible because of Google's obstruction. Pretty disappointing.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 week ago

Yeah, so I've heard 😕