Introduction
Jack Dorsey, the co-founder of Twitter and CEO of Block, has launched a new messaging app called Bitchat. Unlike traditional messaging platforms, Bitchat enables users to communicate completely offline, relying solely on Bluetooth mesh networking. This innovative approach is designed to offer secure, private, and decentralized messaging—without the need for internet, phone numbers, or even user accounts.
How Bitchat Works
Bitchat relies on Bluetooth mesh networking to facilitate offline.
communication. It creates a mesh network among nearby devices, allowing messages to hop from one phone to another. This hop-based approach extends the communication range up to 300 meters (about 328 yards) and even further, as messages can be relayed through multiple users nearby .
The most striking feature of Bitchat is that it doesn’t require any internet. No Wi-Fi, mobile data, or even SIM cards are needed, making it perfect for areas with weak connectivity, crowded public events, or in scenarios where access to the internet is restricted .
The app uses peer-to-peer communication to transmit messages directly between devices, without relying on any central server. This decentralized approach not only enhances privacy but also provides resilience against censorship .
Privacy and Security
Privacy is the cornerstone of Bitchat’s design. The app supports total anonymity—there’s no registration process, no account linking, and no tracking involved. Users can send and receive messages without revealing their identity .
To protect conversations, Bitchat implements advanced encryption protocols. For private messages, it uses Curve25519 and AES-GCM, while group messages are secured using Argon2id and AES-256-GCM. All messages are authenticated using Ed25519 digital signatures .
To further prevent tracking, the app can send dummy messages and uses obfuscation techniques such as altering message timings. There’s also a built-in emergency data wipe feature—a simple triple-tap instantly deletes all stored data on the device .
Use Cases
Bitchat is especially useful in environments where traditional messaging apps fail. During internet blackouts—such as those caused by government-imposed shutdowns or natural disasters—it allows users to stay connected. It’s also ideal for crowded events like music festivals or political protests, where mobile networks are often congested. Lastly, Bitchat serves well in remote areas with little or no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.
Development and Availability
Bitchat is an open-source project. Its codebase and whitepaper are freely available online, allowing developers to audit or contribute to its improvement.
Currently, the app is in beta testing for iOS via TestFlight, having already reached its 10,000-user cap. An Android version and support for Wi-Fi Direct are in the works, which will further broaden its reach.
Importantly, Bitchat has no ads, no tracking, and no monetization model. It’s built purely to enable private, offline communication—nothing more .
Why It Matters
Bitchat has the potential to empower communication during emergencies, protests, or in areas with poor connectivity. With increasing concerns over surveillance and censorship, this app adds a vital tool to the growing ecosystem of privacy-first, censorship-resistant technologies.
Conclusion
Bitchat represents a bold step toward truly private, decentralized, and resilient communication. By leveraging Bluetooth mesh technology, Jack Dorsey’s latest project empowers users to stay connected without relying on traditional infrastructure. In an era of growing privacy concerns and frequent internet disruptions, Bitchat stands out as a timely and innovative solution for secure, offline messaging
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References
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