Yes. The difference is that you need to pay to host a Session node, and pay BIG money. That locks out most people that aren't cryptobros, companies or government agencies. While both a Tor/i2p node and Simplex server (or XMPP, or Matrix) are decidedly easy to set up.
Each SimpleX release gets me closer to using it. The upcoming v5.8 update is no exception:
This release focus is improving the app usability, and preparing the foundation for v5.8 that will provide an in-built protection of user IP addresses when connecting to unknown file and messaging servers, reducing the need to use Tor (which would still remain supported via SOCKS proxy, for additional privacy).
And another round of security audits:
We are planning a 3rd party security audit for the protocols and cryptography design in July 2024, and also the security audit for an implementation in December 2024/January 2025,
Looking good.
Edit: SimpleX v5.7.5 is 313 MB without Data/Cache on Android. Yikes.
My use of session is limited to my kids, wife and a couple of friends. I had high hopes for it when I started using it, but its devs have fallen incredibly short. I have also tried SimpleX on and off, but for some reason, it drinks battery like there's no tomorrow, so I'm off of it for now.