BitChat: Former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey says his new messenger app can work without internet

Jack Dorsey has also released the source code of BitChat on GitHub for independent app developers to test run the app.

Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey is working on an innovative chatting app that works without the internet.

Dorsey took to X (formerly Twitter) to reveal that BitChat is available for select developers to test the app on Apple's TestFlight platform.

He has also released the source code of BitChat on GitHub for independent app developers to test run the app.

As noted earlier, BitChat does not require the Internet to send messages. It works on the Bluetooth technology of the smartphone.

With the latest versions, phones with Bluetooth can support wireless connectivity with devices anywhere between 100 and 240 metres.

To further extend the wireless connectivity strength, BitChat will use Bluetooth Mesh Network technology, where nearby phones with Bluetooth can be used to further expand the connectivity range beyond 300 metres.

With no need for a centralised cloud server, there is less chance of getting tracked by state-sponsored spying agencies.

Also, BitChat supports end-to-end encryption so that every message between users is fully secured and can't be tracked.

Furthermore, it offers a dedicated Rooms feature, where users can add members and discuss their interests. It can be protected with passwords and those with proper credentials can join the Rooms on BitChat. It is similar to Group chat on WhatsApp, but more secure.

Also, like on X, users can mark a particular person or group with a '@' mention (like @nickname) feature to individually message or notify them.

BitChat comes in handy in scenarios where there is a low cellular signal in places such as concerts or sports stadiums, where too much crowding in a location lowers the signal bandwidth, causing a drop in internet and cellular connectivity.

One drawback of using Bluetooth is that, even with the Bluetooth Mesh technique, it cannot support long-distance messaging such as intra-city, interstate and between countries.

There is no official word on when the new BitChat will be made available on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

As per the latest reports, it is being tested by a little over 10,000 people. Going by the speed of progress, it may probably launch by the end of the year or in 2026.