Today we launch the largest update in the history of mini apps. They get a full-screen mode, subscription plans, home screen shortcuts, sending gifts, sharing media, creating documents, access to geolocation, motion tracker, setting emoji statuses -- and more.
The phone number thing can be an issue for some, true.
Still, Signal chats are encrypted. No easy way to access them.
XMPP is a bit of a mixed bag. it is decentralized, so there is no single point of control. One has more control over the communications infrastructure. However, the level of privacy can vary depending on the server and client used. Some XMPP clients support encryption.
Adoption is also an issue. XMPP is not as widely used as Signal. I'd say it maintains a steady presence among privacy enthusiasts and certain niche communities, but doesn't find appeal among the general public.