Jack Dorsey is the co-founder and CEO of Twitter and Block. He has quietly launched a messaging app named Bitchat. It’s different from anything else out there.
Bitchat is a messaging app that runs entirely on Bluetooth mesh networks. It doesn’t use the Internet, phones, email, or servers. It allows users to connect with each other directly through peer-to-peer local links.
App is in Apple TestFlight beta, and a whitepaper on technical aspects has been shared via GitHub.
Dorsey describes the project as an exploration of things such as mesh networks, messaging relays, storage-and-forward system, and encryption methods.
This is a decentralized, stripped-down approach to messaging that was born out of curiosity, rather than commercial ambition.
What is Bitchat?
Jack Dorsey published a paper explaining Bitchat’s workings. The system works by transforming your smartphone into a part of an even larger network of devices nearby.
It creates a short-range link between users using Bluetooth Low Energy. This allows messages to be sent from one phone to another. When people are moving, their mobile phones automatically connect and carry messages.
The chats can be sent far beyond Bluetooth’s typical range without WiFi or cell signals.
In the white paper, Bridge Devices were mentioned. These are phones that end up naturally in groups with overlaps and can help connect them.
The “bridges”, which allow you to extend the network over a larger area, keep the conversation flowing even when the people in the group are scattered.
When a text message is sent and the recipient of that message cannot be reached, your phone will hold onto it. Your phone will hold onto the message and pass it on later, when you are back in range.
The white paper said that messages can stay on your phone for several hours, or even longer depending upon how near the person is.
Strong encryption
Bitchat is serious about privacy, as the white paper makes clear. The messages are encrypted using AES-GCM and Curve25519 to protect the content.
What really makes it stand out is the amount of data it can hold. The messages are only stored in the device memory and then disappear.
Cloud storage is not possible because there are no cloud servers and backups.
You don’t even need to sign up or give your phone number. You only need to choose a username. There’s no fuss and there isn’t any tracking. It’s a quick way to communicate without leaving a trace.
Reducing dependence on centralized tech
Jack Dorsey is known for advocating privacy and decentralized platform. He designed Bitchat to explore mesh networks, encryption and resilient communication methods.
It is part of a larger movement to decrease dependence on tech giants centralized and vulnerable infrastructure.
Bitchat, which enables secure, private and independent internet messaging, offers users a glimpse of a world where they control their own communication.
The post Jack Dorsey introduces Bluetooth-based WhatsApp alternative may change as new information becomes available.
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