A new messaging app called Bitchat, developed by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, has emerged as a potential rival to WhatsApp. The app has been released on the Apple App Store, sparking renewed interest. Bitchat distinguishes itself by allowing users to chat without an internet connection, a feature that could be particularly useful in areas with poor network coverage. It utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh networking for encrypted, peer-to-peer messaging, eliminating the need for Wi-Fi or mobile data. Unlike WhatsApp, which requires an active internet connection for messaging, Bitchat offers a solution for staying connected in situations where internet access is limited or unavailable. The app also does not require users to register with a phone number or email, offering enhanced privacy. Messages are end-to-end encrypted and stored only on the user’s device, with self-destructing messages. This innovative approach could prove valuable during emergencies or when governments restrict internet access.
