Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter, has launched a beta version of a new decentralized messaging service, Bitchat, which operates entirely over Bluetooth.
Overview of Bitchat
Bitchat is a messaging system that operates based on Bluetooth technology. Dorsey noted he spent weekends learning about Bluetooth mesh networks, relay systems, and message encryption models. He likened Bitchat to early internet chat systems from the late 1990s.
Security and Decentralization of the System
According to the white paper, Bitchat provides completely decentralized messaging without the use of central servers. Messages are stored in device memory by default and encrypted for added security. Unlike popular messaging services like WhatsApp and Messenger that rely on centralized structures, Bitchat offers users protection of their personal data.
Potential Use Cases for Bitchat
The system can be useful in various scenarios such as conferences, protests, and disaster areas where internet infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable. The technical paper emphasizes that secure and private communication is possible without centralized infrastructure.
The launch of Bitchat by Jack Dorsey represents an interesting step in the development of decentralized messaging, offering new possibilities for communication without dependence on the internet.