Former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey Launches Internet-Free Messaging App
Jack Dorsey, Twitter’s co-founder and former CEO, has unveiled BitChat, a revolutionary messaging application that operates without internet connectivity. The former tech executive announced the experimental project over the weekend through a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
BitChat utilizes Bluetooth mesh networking technology to enable users to send encrypted messages directly between devices. This store-and-forward communication system allows messages to hop between nearby phones, creating a decentralized network that functions independently of traditional internet infrastructure.
Dorsey described BitChat as a “personal experimental project” focused on exploring alternative communication methods. The app represents his latest venture into decentralized technology, following his previous work on the Bluesky social media platform and his advocacy for Bitcoin and blockchain technologies.
The timing of BitChat’s release comes amid growing concerns about digital privacy and communication security. Internet-free messaging could prove valuable during natural disasters, network outages, or in regions with limited internet access. The encrypted nature of the messages adds an additional layer of security for users concerned about surveillance.
While specific technical details remain limited, the app appears to target users seeking communication alternatives beyond traditional internet-dependent platforms. Dorsey’s reputation for innovative social media solutions positions BitChat as a potentially significant development in the messaging app landscape, though its practical adoption will depend on user acceptance and technical performance.