Jack Dorsey officially launched Bitchat, a decentralized messaging app that works offline using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh networking, on the Apple App Store on July 29, 2025. The app allows users to send end-to-end encrypted messages to others nearby without needing internet, Wi-Fi, or cellular service by creating a mesh network where phones relay messages to extend the communication range potentially up to 300 meters. Bitchat does not require accounts, phone numbers, or logins—users can start messaging immediately after installation with randomly assigned or customizable display names.
Bitchat initially launched in beta via Apple’s TestFlight, reaching its 10,000-user limit quickly before the full release. The app is currently available only on iOS, with an Android version in development but not yet released. However, a known bug prevents iOS devices from connecting to Android devices so far, with a fix submitted to Apple for approval.
The app aims to provide secure, private communication in low-connectivity or no-connectivity scenarios, such as natural disasters, protests, or areas with internet restrictions. Despite promoting strong security and privacy, some researchers have flagged potential vulnerabilities, including risks of user impersonation, and Dorsey has acknowledged the app lacks an external security review currently.
Bitchat represents an innovative offline messaging platform officially launched by Jack Dorsey in late July 2025 on iOS, leveraging Bluetooth mesh networking to enable peer-to-peer communication without internet reliance.
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