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bitchat is a decentralized peer-to-peer messaging application that operates over bluetooth mesh networks. no internet required, no servers, no phone numbers.

traditional messaging apps depend on centralized infrastructure that can be monitored, censored, or disabled. bitchat creates ad-hoc communication networks using only the devices present in physical proximity. each device acts as both client and server, automatically discovering peers and relaying messages across multiple hops to extend the network's reach.

this approach provides censorship resistance, surveillance resistance, and infrastructure independence. the network remains functional during internet outages, natural disasters, protests, or in regions with limited connectivity.

⚠️ security notice: private message and channel features have not received external security review and may contain vulnerabilities. do not use for sensitive use cases, and do not rely on its security until it has been reviewed. work in progress. public local chat (the main feature) has no security concerns.

software

ios/macos version:
source code: https://github.com/permissionlesstech/bitchat
supports ios 16.0+ and macos 13.0+. build using xcode with xcodegen or swift package manager.

android version:
source code: https://github.com/permissionlesstech/bitchat-android
apk releases: https://github.com/permissionlesstech/bitchat-android/releases
supports android 8.0+ (api 26). full protocol compatibility with ios version.

documentation

technical whitepaper: whitepaper.md

the software is released into the public domain.


permissionlesstech