On Monday, Jack Dorsey introduced Bitchat Mesh, a new Bluetooth messaging application for iPhone users. This launch follows the recent reveal of a peer-to-peer (P2P) app that Dorsey developed over the weekend, which operates independently from traditional internet connections, phone numbers, or email addresses. The app offers robust features such as end-to-end encryption (E2EE) and identity verification. Currently, Bitchat Mesh can be downloaded from the App Store, although Dorsey has not specified when it will become available on the Google Play Store.
Bitchat Mesh Implements Noise Protocol Framework for Enhanced Security
Bitchat Mesh is now accessible for iPhone users via the App Store, as Dorsey confirmed in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The app description highlights its ability to facilitate communication without an internet connection, utilizing a Bluetooth mesh network instead. Users can connect directly with one another and also relay messages through other connected peers, ensuring that conversations can continue even when out of direct Bluetooth range.
The interface of Bitchat Mesh is designed to be minimalistic, resembling older text-based Internet Relay Chat (IRC) applications. Users have the ability to mark contacts as favorites, mention them in chats, and block any unwanted interactions.
According to a whitepaper released for Bitchat, messages are protected by E2EE through the Noise protocol framework. The app includes a feature that allows users to authenticate each other’s identities by exchanging “fingerprints” either directly or via another secure online channel, marking verified contacts accordingly.
Notably, the Bitchat Mesh listing on the App Store indicates that the app does not collect user data and operates without requiring accounts or server support. It is compatible with iOS 16 and later, and support for Android devices running version 8.0 and above is planned.
A security advisory on the Bitchat website warns that while local messages are secure, private one-on-one chats have not undergone external security evaluations, suggesting users avoid utilizing them for sensitive discussions.
iPhone users can obtain Bitchat Mesh from the App Store, though the app has yet to be released on the Play Store. For those with technical expertise, the official website provides links to APK versions via the project’s GitHub page, offering an opportunity to test the app ahead of its official release.
