On Monday, Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and Bluesky, unveiled a new messaging application called “Bitchat” that operates without internet connectivity. The app utilizes Bluetooth technology and is characterized by its encryption and decentralized nature. Currently, it is undergoing a trial phase with 10,000 users.
Philosophy Behind Bitchat
Dorsey announced on the platform X that Bitchat is a personal project inspired by traditional IRC chats. The app functions as a “mesh network” relying on Bluetooth, eliminating the need for internet access. Dorsey emphasized that the app does not depend on central servers, does not require account creation, and does not collect user data, making it a unique alternative in the digital communication landscape.
In a technical document shared on GitHub, Dorsey noted that Bitchat facilitates “ephemeral and encrypted” communication independent of internet infrastructure, rendering it resistant to network outages and censorship. Messages are stored solely on users’ devices and are automatically deleted without accessing any central infrastructure. The app also allows for public chats or joining password-protected rooms, enhancing user flexibility and privacy.
Testing and Launch Phase
Dorsey confirmed that the beta version of Bitchat, available through Apple’s TestFlight, has reached its maximum user capacity of 10,000. The app is currently under review in preparation for its official launch.
Jack Dorsey: A Pioneer in Open Technology
Dorsey is known for his influential career in technology. He founded Twitter (now X) in 2006, the digital payment company Square (now Block) in 2009, and Bluesky in 2019, which serves as an alternative social network to X. He continued to serve on the board of Bluesky until his resignation in 2024. Dorsey is recognized for his bohemian style and his advocacy for open-source software principles, aiming to counter the dominance of major corporations in technology, including artificial intelligence.
Significance of Bitchat in Communication
Bitchat represents an innovative step toward enhancing privacy and autonomy in digital communication. By relying on Bluetooth and avoiding central servers, the app offers a solution to traditional challenges such as censorship and internet disruptions.
