Released in July 2025 by the Twitter co-founder, Bitchat uses Bluetooth mesh networks to let users message without internet, cellular data, or servers—relaying up to seven hops for 200-300 meters in crowds. It surged in Uganda ahead of elections after opposition leader Bobi Wine urged downloads, topping app stores with over 28,000 installs this year, and tripled in Iran amid crackdowns. Recent updates added photos, voice notes, better range, and security fixes, making it a go-to for censorship-resistant communication in protests or disasters, though it works best in dense areas.
