Bitchat

Bitchat is a revolutionary decentralized peer-to-peer messaging app, reportedly by Jack Dorsey, that operates without internet using Bluetooth mesh networks. It's designed as 'the side-groupchat' for seamless offline communication, requiring no servers or phone numbers. This innovative application uses automatic peer discovery and multi-hop message relay, making it perfect for scenarios where traditional internet-based messaging fails, such as remote areas or emergency situations.

## How to Use

To use Bitchat, you can either set up the development environment by cloning from GitHub and using XcodeGen (or simply run `just run` for macOS) or download the pre-built iOS app or Android APK. Once launched, set your nickname, and the app will automatically connect to nearby peers via Bluetooth LE mesh. You can join channels using IRC commands like `/j #general`, discover available channels with `/channels`, or start chatting in public local chat. Advanced features include sending private messages with `/m @name message`, protecting channels with `/pass password`, and managing users with `/block @name`. Messages relay through the mesh to reach distant peers.

## Key Features

- Decentralized Mesh Network (Bluetooth LE, automatic peer discovery, multi-hop message relay, TTL-based routing up to 7 hops) - Military-Grade Encryption (X25519 key exchange, AES-256-GCM for private messages, Argon2id + AES-256-GCM for channels, Ed25519 signatures) - IRC-Style Channels (topic-based group messaging, password protection, ownership transfer, @ mentions) - Store & Forward Messages (messages cached for offline peers, automatic delivery upon reconnection) - Zero-Knowledge Privacy (no accounts, no phone numbers, ephemeral by default, forward secrecy) - Universal Platform (native support for iOS 16.0+, macOS 13.0+, Android compatibility) - LZ4 Compression (automatic message compression for bandwidth savings) - Adaptive Battery (5-tier power management from performance to ultra-low power) - Emergency Wipe (triple-tap logo to instantly clear all data) - Open Source & Public Domain

## Use Cases

- Communication in areas with poor or no internet connectivity - Messaging during network outages or emergencies - Secure communication in censorship scenarios or protests - Reliable offline communication for any situation