Bitchat - Decentralized Offline Messaging App by Jack Dorsey

Bitchat is a decentralized peer-to-peer messaging app developed by Jack Dorsey that operates over Bluetooth mesh networks. It enables offline communication without the need for internet connectivity, servers, or phone numbers. Designed for seamless group chats, Bitchat is ideal for use in remote areas or emergency situations where traditional messaging fails.

1. Decentralized Mesh Network

   Bitchat utilizes automatic peer discovery and multi-hop message relay over Bluetooth LE, allowing messages to be sent across a maximum of 7 hops.

2. Military-Grade Encryption

   The app employs X25519 key exchange and AES-256-GCM encryption to ensure the privacy of messages, alongside Argon2id for channels and Ed25519 signatures.

3. IRC-Style Channels

   Users can engage in topic-based group messaging with features like password protection, ownership transfer, and user mentions with autocomplete.

4. Store & Forward

   Messages are cached for offline peers and delivered automatically when they reconnect to the Bitchat mesh network.

5. Zero-Knowledge Privacy

   Bitchat requires no accounts or phone numbers, ensuring messages are ephemeral by default and providing forward secrecy with new key pairs for each session.

6. Universal Platform

   The app supports native functionality for iOS 16.0+ and macOS 13.0+, with Android compatibility through a platform-agnostic protocol.

7. LZ4 Compression

   Automatic message compression is applied to messages over 100 bytes, achieving bandwidth savings of 30-70%.

8. Adaptive Battery Management

   Bitchat features a 5-tier power management system that adjusts performance based on battery levels, optimizing energy consumption.

9. Emergency Wipe

   Users can instantly clear all data by triple-tapping the app logo, enhancing privacy protection.

1. Clone the Bitchat repository from GitHub and set up using XcodeGen for macOS.
2. Launch the app and set your nickname to connect with nearby peers via Bluetooth LE mesh.
3. Use IRC commands to join channels, send private messages, and manage user interactions.

What is Bitchat and who created it?

Bitchat is a decentralized messaging app by Jack Dorsey that operates without the internet, using Bluetooth mesh networks for communication.

How does Bitchat's mesh network work?

It employs a binary protocol optimized for Bluetooth LE, allowing devices to act as both clients and peripherals with automatic peer discovery and message routing.

What are Bitchat's security features?

Bitchat incorporates military-grade encryption, forward secrecy, and an emergency wipe feature to protect user privacy.

How can I download and install Bitchat?

Bitchat is available for iOS and Android, with direct download links for both platforms.

How does Bitchat optimize battery usage?

The app features adaptive power management with multiple modes to conserve battery life while maintaining functionality.

What makes Bitchat's protocol efficient?

Bitchat uses LZ4 compression and optimized protocols to reduce bandwidth usage and improve message delivery efficiency.

How does message storage work in Bitchat?

Messages are ephemeral by default, but channel owners can enable message retention. The store-and-forward feature caches messages for offline peers.

What are Bitchat's main use cases?

Bitchat is suitable for areas with poor connectivity, during network outages, and in emergency situations.

Is Bitchat open source and what's the license?

Yes, Bitchat is open source and released into the public domain, allowing for unrestricted use and modification.

What's Bitchat's current development status?

Bitchat is actively being developed with core functionalities in place, though some features have not undergone external security review.

Price data is not available yet, please visit the official website for more information.

1. Bitchat offers a unique solution for offline communication, making it particularly useful in areas with limited internet access or during emergencies.
2. The military-grade encryption and zero-knowledge privacy features enhance user security and trust.
3. However, the app's reliance on Bluetooth may limit its range and effectiveness in larger groups or crowded environments.
4. The lack of external security reviews for some features raises concerns about potential vulnerabilities.
5. Overall, Bitchat is a promising tool for decentralized communication, but users should remain cautious about its limitations and security assurances.