How to Build Your Own Tox
Replace Tox with a custom build. A New Kind of Instant Messaging
Build Difficulty: 5/5
Build a working replacement in a weekend with AI tools
Estimated Timeline
Based on 9 features at Weekend Project difficulty, expect about One weekend with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
Real-time messaging and live updates
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 5 categories. See all 9 features
Communication(4 features)
Chat, call, and share video and files with the whole gang in Tox's group chats
Chat instantly across the globe with Tox's secure messages
Catch up face to face, over Tox's secure video calls
Keep in touch with friends and family using Tox's completely free and encrypted voice calls
Collaboration(2 features)
Trade files, with no artificial limits or caps
Share your desktop with your friends with Tox's screen sharing
Infrastructure(1 features)
Tox has no central servers that can be raided, shut down, or forced to turn over data — the network is made up of its users
Licensing(1 features)
Tox is free software that is yours — to use, modify, and share — because Tox is developed by and for the users
Security(1 features)
Everything you do with Tox is encrypted using open-source libraries. The only people who can see your conversations are the people you're talking with
Cost Calculator
Pricing data not available for Tox. Check their website for current pricing.