Jack Dorsey, the visionary behind Twitter, has unveiled BitChat, a groundbreaking messaging app that completely sidesteps the internet. Designed for situations where connectivity is scarce or privacy is paramount, BitChat allows nearby smartphones to communicate directly using Bluetooth mesh networking, effectively creating a local web of connected devices.
Here’s a quick look at how BitChat functions:
Device-to-device connection: BitChat-enabled phones simply detect each other via Bluetooth, establishing direct links.
No central server: Unlike mainstream apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, your messages never pass through external servers, enhancing privacy and security.
Mesh networking for extended reach: If your intended recipient isn’t within direct Bluetooth range, your message “hops” from one BitChat user’s phone to another. This clever mesh routing allows messages to travel distances well beyond standard Bluetooth limits—up to 300 meters (984 feet).
No personal identifiers needed: For maximum anonymity, the app requires no phone number, email address, or any personal credentials to get started.
BitChat represents a significant step towards resilient, decentralized communication, perfect for festivals, emergencies, or simply staying connected off the grid.
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