I know the OP didn't mention about a platform being dependent on having a mobile phone number...but an advantage of matrix is that it does not require such a nu

I know the OP didn't mention about a platform being dependent on having a mobile phone number...but an advantage of matrix is that it does not require such a number. I state this because the OP focused on desktop, so i am making an assumption here. Also, matrix (and other federated-based platforms) need not be hosted in a single silo...much like email, can be hosted by numerous servers, and yet interact freely.