The correct URL is of course https://conversations.im

The list of features at conversations.im is impressive. Despite the fact that nobody I know is using it, I wanted to have a quick look but it's a paid app (I know, GPL, etc). And one I know I won't be actively using. There is too much friction to try it out.

One can get Conversations from the F-Droid store without spending money: https://f-droid.org/

Then you can support project but paying for really reliable service and for few extra € you can even use your own domain.

Asking for money in return for binaries of GPL/FLOSS apps uploaded to the app stores of proprietary platforms seems like a decent way to fund FLOSS development. Folks there are used to paying anyway. Folks interested in FLOSS will be using platforms like Cydia, F-Droid or Debian/Fedora anyway.

I'm not arguing about the validity of the method that was chosen. I agree it's a valid method.

What I'm saying is that, if the goal is widespread usage, there are little small roadblocks before users can actually be using the app.

I cannot ask my family and friends to install F-droid or pay for an app that I'm not even sure they will like. So realistically, I will never mention it to them.

Maybe I misunderstood what is the target audience from the beginning. You're telling me it is the 0.0001℅ of the population that uses 3rd-party app stores, Linux, etc. That's fine too but it comes with its own limitations.