Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and CEO of Block, has unveiled a new messaging platform called BitChat, now in beta testing. The announcement was made in a post on X (formerly Twitter), signaling Dorsey’s latest move toward decentralized, privacy-first communication tools.
Unlike conventional messaging apps, BitChat operates without internet access. It uses Bluetooth Mesh technology to connect nearby devices in a decentralized network, bypassing servers entirely. There’s no sign-up, no email, no phone number — and no central data storage.
Key Features of BitChat:
- No internet required – fully offline communication via Bluetooth
- Peer-to-peer architecture – messages are stored locally on devices
- End-to-end encryption – ensuring message security and privacy
- Store-and-forward system – messages are held until the recipient is within Bluetooth range
- Minimalist UI – inspired by 1990s IRC chat culture
Each device in the BitChat network acts as both a client and a relay, forwarding messages through the mesh until they reach the intended recipient. This makes it ideal for environments with limited connectivity, or for users seeking a fully private, anonymous messaging solution`.
Dorsey described BitChat as capturing the spirit of “free and open” communication, aligning with his ongoing advocacy for decentralized tech and user-controlled data.
The app is currently in beta and available to early testers.
