Jack Dorsey launches a WhatsApp messaging rival built on Bluetooth

Over the weekend, Jack Dorsey, CEO of Block and co-founder of Twitter, introduced Bitchat, a groundbreaking decentralized messaging application. This innovative platform utilizes Bluetooth mesh networks, allowing users to communicate without relying on the internet, central servers, or traditional identifiers like phone numbers and emails. Dorsey made the announcement on Sunday, revealing that the beta version of Bitchat is now available on TestFlight, accompanied by a comprehensive white paper on GitHub. In a post shared on X, he described the project as a personal exploration into various technologies, such as Bluetooth mesh networks, relays, message encryption, and more. Bitchat facilitates ephemeral and encrypted communication between nearby devices, enabling users to exchange messages as they move within close proximity. By forming local Bluetooth clusters, users can send messages even beyond standard range limitations, all without the need for Wi-Fi or cellular service. Special 'bridge' devices can connect overlapping clusters, effectively extending the communication range. Messages sent through Bitchat are stored only on users' devices, designed to disappear by default, and bypass centralized infrastructure altogether. This aligns with Dorsey's ongoing commitment to promoting privacy-focused, censorship-resistant communication. The launch of Bitchat follows his endorsement of decentralized platforms like Damus and Bluesky, illustrating a larger movement towards decentralizing social media and payment systems. Similar to Bluetooth messaging applications that were utilized during the protests in Hong Kong in 2019, Bitchat is intended to function in scenarios where internet access is restricted. This feature allows users to remain connected during outages, government shutdowns, or surveillance activities. The app also includes features like group chats, or 'rooms,' which can be easily named with hashtags and secured with passwords. Additionally, it offers store-and-forward capabilities to ensure message delivery to users who may be temporarily offline. Future updates will integrate Wi-Fi Direct to enhance both speed and range, further advancing Dorsey's vision for independent, user-controlled communication. Unlike conventional messaging services such as Meta's WhatsApp and Messenger, which are governed by large tech corporations and often exploit user data, Bitchat is entirely peer-to-peer, ensuring no accounts, identifiers, or data collection are required.