Jack Dorsey, one of the founders of social media network Twitter (now X), is launching a new messaging service Bitchat which works via a mesh network: without internet or network connection, but via bluetooth. Bitchat would work entirely peer-to-peer, without accounts, identification details or data collection.
Mesh network
Dorsey calls his Bitchat a ‘weekend project’. It makes use of mesh networks: various devices that reach each other via encrypted communication.
???? How a mesh network works
A mesh network consists of multiple nodes which connect with each other and forward messages to their final destination. Whilst traditional networks depend on central transmission masts, each device in a mesh network can function as a relay station.
Want to know more? Then read this article: With a Mesh network you can communicate without a mobile connection
Communication therefore happens entirely offline, meaning messages cannot be traced. Users’ privacy remains protected in this way. On Sunday, Dorsey launched the test phase of bitchat. 10,000 people signed up as volunteers to test the app in a short time.