By Guest 
Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and CEO of Block Inc., has introduced Bitchat, a revolutionary messaging app that operates without internet access, phone numbers, or central servers.
In an era where digital privacy and connectivity are increasingly under scrutiny, Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and CEO of Block Inc., has unveiled a groundbreaking messaging application called Bitchat.
Launched as a weekend project to explore Bluetooth mesh networks, encryption, and decentralized communication, Bitchat promises to disrupt the traditional messaging landscape by operating without the need for internet access, phone numbers, or central servers. As of July 9, 2025, the app has gained significant attention, with a beta version available for iOS and a recently released Android port, marking a significant step toward open-source innovation.
The Genesis of Bitchat
Bitchat emerged from Dorsey’s personal initiative to delve into Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh networking, a technology that enables devices to communicate directly with one another in a peer-to-peer fashion. Announced on July 6, 2025, via a post on X, Dorsey described the app as a nod to the nostalgic IRC (Internet Relay Chat) vibes, blending retro communication styles with cutting-edge security features.
The app leverages BLE to create a mesh network, allowing messages to hop between devices within proximity, even in areas with no internet infrastructure. This feature has sparked interest for its potential use in emergencies, outdoor activities, and regions with limited connectivity.The app’s open-source nature, with its code hosted on GitHub, invites developers worldwide to contribute, accelerating its development. Dorsey’s initial release included a TestFlight link for iOS users, and within days, the community responded with an unofficial Android port, further demonstrating the power of collaborative innovation.
Key Features and Technical Highlights
Bitchat stands out due to its robust feature set, designed with privacy and functionality in mind:
- Offline Communication: Utilizing Bluetooth mesh networking, Bitchat enables communication without internet or cellular data, making it ideal for disaster zones or remote locations.
- End-to-End Encryption: Messages are secured with Curve25519 encryption and AES-256, ensuring that only the intended recipient can access them.
- Anonymous Messaging: Users communicate via cryptographic keypairs, eliminating the need for personal identifiers like phone numbers.
- Store-and-Forward: The app supports offline message delivery, relaying messages through a network of devices until the recipient is reachable.
- Extended Range: Mesh networking extends communication range through device relays, overcoming the typical limitations of Bluetooth.
- No Tracking: Bitchat prioritizes privacy by avoiding data collection, aligning with growing concerns over surveillance.
The technical whitepaper, shared by Dorsey, details a binary protocol optimized for BLE, featuring compact packet formats, TTL-based routing (up to 7 hops), and automatic peer discovery. This design not only enhances efficiency but also ensures battery optimization, a critical factor for widespread adoption.
How to Download?
On July 8, 2025, developer @callebtc on X announced an unofficial Android port of Bitchat, interoperable with the iOS version. This port, built using AI-assisted development, is available as an APK and hosted on a GitHub repository (https://github.com/callebtc/bitchat-android).
Android Expansion and Community Involvement
While still rough around the edges and facing issues on certain platforms like GrapheneOS (later resolved with a reboot), the rapid development highlights the app’s open-source momentum. Dorsey himself acknowledged the port, posting, “bitchat now on android. open source moves fast,” signaling his approval and encouragement of community efforts.
Global Context and Privacy Debate
Bitchat’s launch coincides with heightened global discussions on privacy and government oversight, particularly in Europe. In Denmark, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, the youngest leader in the country’s history and a Social Democrat, has faced criticism for policies perceived as reducing freedoms. One controversial proposal involves mandating messaging apps to store user data for government access, a move that has failed in Denmark and similar efforts in Sweden. Frederiksen defends her stringent immigration policies and support for Ukraine—tripling aid amid the ongoing conflict—while dismissing peace talks with Russia. Her comments on a potential trade war with the U.S., where Denmark exports $5 billion in drugs like Ozempic annually, and Trump’s interest in Greenland, add a geopolitical layer to the privacy discourse.
Bitchat’s decentralized model directly challenges such policies, offering a privacy-first alternative that aligns with the growing demand for secure, government-independent communication tools. This has fueled its trending status on X, with users praising its potential to counter centralized messaging giants like WhatsApp and Telegram.
Applications and Implications
The versatility of Bitchat extends beyond casual use. Its ability to function offline makes it a valuable tool for soldiers, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts. In emergency scenarios—such as natural disasters or wartime—it provides a lifeline when traditional networks fail. Socially, users have humorously suggested it as a tool for introverts to connect anonymously in public spaces, like subways, reflecting its broad appeal.
However, challenges remain. Early adopters have reported connectivity issues between devices, and the app’s reliance on proximity limits its scalability. As it moves toward official releases on Google Play and the App Store, addressing these bugs and enhancing user experience will be crucial.
The Road Ahead
As of 07:07 PM +03 on July 9, 2025, Bitchat is in its infancy but carries the promise of a decentralized communication revolution. Supported by Dorsey’s vision and the open-source community, it challenges the dominance of centralized messaging platforms while addressing privacy concerns in an increasingly surveilled digital world. Whether it becomes a mainstream tool or remains a niche innovation, Bitchat underscores the power of technology to adapt to human needs—free from the constraints of traditional infrastructure.
For now, enthusiasts can experiment with the beta versions, contribute to its development, and watch as this bold experiment evolves. In a world where connectivity and privacy are at odds, Bitchat may just be the bridge we’ve been waiting for.