Image Credits: Jack Dorsey / X
Jack Dorsey, best known for co-founding Twitter (now X) in 2006, is developing a new way for people to communicate: a peer-to-peer messaging app that uses a mesh network and connects via Bluetooth, eliminating the need for internet access.
A Weekend Project in Decentralization
Dorsey shared on X that he built a simple version of the app, called Bitchat, over the weekend to explore the technologies behind mesh-based services. What distinguishes Bitchat is that it fully decentralizes messaging—no servers store messages.
The app works much like the 36-year-old messaging system called IRC (Internet Relay Chat), allowing users to join topic-based chat rooms or send direct private messages. Since it relies on Bluetooth, you can message others with the app within roughly 328 yards (300 meters). For contacts farther away, Bitchat relays messages through nearby connected devices using the wireless protocol until they reach the recipient.
Image Credits: Jack Dorsey / X
Bitchat offers end-to-end encryption for private chats, password-protected chat rooms, and temporary message storage limited to device memory. It doesn’t require a phone number or email to use, and it doesn’t track user activity.
Dorsey released an early version for iOS through Apple’s TestFlight, though all slots are currently filled. He mentioned the system is platform-independent and could be integrated into an Android app, but hasn’t confirmed any plans to do so yet.
Offline Messaging for Unstable Networks
Bitchat is similar to earlier mesh-based messaging apps like the now-defunct FireChat and Bridgefy, which used offline, Bluetooth-powered relays. These apps gained attention during the 2019 Hong Kong protests, where authorities were reportedly limiting internet access and monitoring private messages.
Such tools are also useful during internet blackouts or in places with weak mobile signals, like music festivals or crowded events. CNBC reports that a future version of Bitchat will support Wi-Fi Direct for faster speeds and wider range.
While the concept isn’t new, Dorsey’s involvement stands out given his strong stance on privacy and free speech. He has criticized government control over online platforms and censorship. Dorsey also founded Bluesky in 2019 as an alternative to X, supports the decentralized Nostr protocol, and serves as chairman of Block Inc., the parent company of Square.
For now, Bitchat seems to be more of a personal experiment and learning exercise for Dorsey, rather than a high-stakes venture. Still, it’ll be interesting to watch how the app develops—especially given Dorsey’s influence—at a time when global tensions are rising and online censorship is becoming increasingly widespread.
Read the original article on: New Atlas
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