Talkomatic Classic is the open-source version of the Talkomatic chat platform, reimagining the classic chat room experience for the modern web. It offers real-time text communication where users can see messages as they are being typed, creating a unique and engaging chat environment.
Overview[]
Talkomatic Classic is a revival of the original Talkomatic system from the 1970s, adapted for contemporary web technologies. It provides a nostalgic yet functional chat experience, combining the immediacy of real-time typing with modern features and responsive design.
Key Features[]
- Real-time Chat: Messages appear as they're being typed, not just after sending.
- Multiple Room Types: Users can create public, semi-private (with access code), or private rooms.
- Flexible Layout: Choice between horizontal or vertical room layouts.
- User Presence: Visible indicators of who's in the room and their locations.
- Invite System: Easy invitation to chat rooms via generated links.
- Sound Notifications: Audible cues for user join/leave events.
- Mobile Responsive: Adapts to various screen sizes for cross-device compatibility.
Technology Stack[]
Talkomatic Classic is built using modern web technologies:
- Backend: Node.js with Express.js
- Real-time Communication: Socket.IO
- Frontend: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript (ES6+)
Installation[]
For those interested in running their own instance of Talkomatic Classic, the installation process is straightforward:
1. Clone the repository:
git clone https://github.com/MohdYahyaMahmodi/talkomatic-classic.git
2. Navigate to the project directory:
cd talkomatic-classic
3. Install dependencies:
npm install
4. Start the server:
node server.js
The application will be accessible at http://localhost:3000 by default.
Configuration[]
Talkomatic Classic can be customized using an optional .env file in the root directory. Available environment variables include:
- NODE_ENV: Set to "development" or "production"
- SESSION_SECRET: A unique secret for session management
- ALLOWED_ORIGINS: Specify allowed origins for CORS
- PORT: The port number for the server to listen on
Usage Guide[]
Joining the Lobby[]

Talkomatic Classic Lobby
1. Navigate to the Talkomatic Classic URL (e.g., http://localhost:3000 for local installations).
2. Enter your name and optional location to sign in.
Creating a Room[]
1. In the lobby, provide room details (name, type, layout).
2. Click "Go Chat" to create and enter the new room.
Joining Existing Rooms[]
1. The lobby displays available public and semi-private rooms.
2. Click "Enter" on any room to join.
3. Semi-private rooms require an access code.
Chatting[]

Talkomatic Classic Chat Room
1. In a room, each user has a designated text area.
2. Start typing to see your message appear in real-time for all room participants.
Inviting Others[]
- Use the provided invite link in the room to bring in more participants.
Exiting a Room[]
- Click "Leave Room" to return to the lobby.
Development and Contributions[]
Talkomatic Classic is an open-source project that welcomes community contributions. Interested developers can contribute in several ways:
- Reporting bugs and suggesting features through GitHub issues.
- Submitting pull requests with bug fixes or new features.
- Improving documentation or adding translations.
Contributors should refer to the project's Contributing Guidelines for more information.
Licensing[]
Talkomatic Classic is released under the MIT License, allowing for both personal and commercial use, modification, and distribution.
See Also[]
- Talkomatic
- Talkomatic.co
- History of online chat