Twitter and Bluesky co-founder and Block chief executive Jack Dorsey has introduced Bitchat. It is a messaging app that allows peer-to-peer communication through Bluetooth and bypasses the need for cellular networks or internet connection. This reflects a growing interest in decentralized tools and systems that function independently of traditional infrastructure.
Specifically, unlike most messaging platforms, it does not rely on phone numbers, central servers, or cloud storage. It forms a Bluetooth Low Energy mesh network where messages are securely relayed from one device to another. This allows users to send encrypted messages that can hop between nearby devices and reach recipients beyond the direct Bluetooth range.
Bitchat prioritizes user privacy and security by incorporating advanced encryption and anonymous communication methods. There is no account registration, user tracking, or data collection. Among its privacy features are password-protected group chats, dummy traffic to mask activity, offline message forwarding, and a panic mode that can erase data with a triple-tap gesture.
The application is currently available in beta for iOS users via TestFlight, with access limited to ten thousand participants. It boasts an effective range of over three hundred meters, a significant improvement compared to earlier Bluetooth-based apps such as Bridgefy. Developers have not yet confirmed the date of a public release pending further testing and feedback.
Bitchat is designed for use in situations where internet access is unavailable or unreliable. It may be especially useful in emergencies, natural disasters, remote regions, or mass gatherings where connectivity is disrupted. This approach mirrors the functionality of past mesh-based platforms like FireChat, which gained popularity in politically sensitive environments.
It is not intended to replace mainstream messaging platforms. The app underscores a shift toward secure and resilient communication technologies. Venturing into this space aligns with broader movements advocating for user autonomy, data privacy, and the decentralization of digital tools. It may represent a significant development in offline messaging solutions.