Jack Dorsey, the former Twitter CEO and current head of Bitcoin-focused tech company Block, has officially launched his latest project—Bitchat, a decentralized messaging app that operates without internet access.

The app went live on the Apple App Store on Monday and is designed to let users communicate securely using only Bluetooth.

According to Bitchat’s whitepaper posted on GitHub, the app functions over Bluetooth mesh networks, enabling peer-to-peer communication between nearby devices. Unlike conventional messaging apps, Bitchat doesn’t require a phone number, SIM card, or even Wi-Fi to work.

Focus on Privacy and Security

Bitchat is built with end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the sender and recipient can read messages. This adds a strong layer of privacy, especially compared to mainstream apps like Telegram or WhatsApp, which may still rely on servers or cloud backups.

Dorsey’s new platform aims to provide completely decentralized and censorship-resistant communication, echoing his broader vision for open-source and Bitcoin-integrated technologies.

“This is communication without central servers or surveillance risk,” reads the whitepaper. “Your messages stay yours.”

How It Works

Bitchat uses nearby Bluetooth connections to create a mesh network—a chain of connected devices that pass along messages without needing internet access. This makes it particularly useful in remote areas, during internet outages, or in regions with restricted communication.

Key Features:

• No internet or data required
• No SIM card or phone number needed
• Fully decentralized and peer-to-peer
• End-to-end encrypted messaging

The app is currently available only on iOS via the Apple App Store, with an Android version likely to follow.

Summary

Jack Dorsey’s new app Bitchat brings a unique twist to messaging by using Bluetooth for secure, decentralized communication. With end-to-end encryption and no need for internet or phone numbers, it offers a privacy-focused alternative to mainstream apps. Now live on the App Store, Bitchat reflects Dorsey’s continued push toward censorship-free and decentralized tech solutions.