BitChat:
The Unstoppable Mesh
Protocol
Noise_XX
Cryptographic Handshake
Mesh Limit
7 Hops
~300m Range Extension
Encryption
AES-256
GCM Authenticated
Transport
Dual
BLE + Nostr Relay
Under the Hood: Dual-Transport Architecture
BitChat isn't just a Bluetooth app. It's a hybrid protocol that intelligently switches between local mesh and global relays.
The Physical Layer: Uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) advertisements to broadcast small data packets (chunks of ~31 bytes).
- Multi-hop Routing: Messages hop up to 7 times between devices, extending range beyond direct line-of-sight.
- Store-and-Forward: Intermediate nodes cache messages for offline recipients and deliver them upon reconnection.
- Managed Flooding: Efficiently propagates messages without saturating the spectrum.
The Internet Layer: When internet is detected, BitChat connects to decentralized Nostr relays.
- Global Reach: Messages are routed through relays (wss://) to reach users anywhere in the world.
- Censorship Resistance: No central server to block. If one relay is down, the app switches to another.
- Identity: Uses public/private key pairs (npub/nsec) compatible with other Nostr clients.
Military-Grade Encryption
BitChat implements the Noise Protocol Framework (specifically the Noise_XX pattern) to ensure that your messages remain private, even when hopping through strangers' devices.
Forward Secrecy
New session keys are generated for every conversation. Even if a long-term key is compromised, past messages remain secure.
Zero Metadata
BitChat uses "cover traffic" and random timing delays to prevent traffic analysis. No phone numbers or emails are linked to your identity.
Panic Mode
Triple-tap the logo to instantly wipe all local data and keys. Designed for activists in high-risk environments.
How It Compares
| Feature | BitChat | Briar | Bridgefy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Tech | Bluetooth Mesh + Nostr | Tor + Bluetooth/WiFi | Bluetooth Mesh |
| Internet Sync | Yes (via Nostr Relays) | Yes (via Tor) | No (Mesh only) |
| Central Server | None (Relays are decentralized) | None | None |
| Encryption | Noise Protocol (E2EE) | Bramble Protocol (E2EE) | Signal Protocol (E2EE) |
| iOS Support | Yes (Full Support) | Limited / Beta | Yes |
| Best For | Hybrid (Offline + Online) | High-Risk Activism | Crowded Events |
Real World Applications
Coordinate safely in crowds where cellular networks are jammed or monitored. Mesh networking bypasses ISP censorship.
Communication infrastructure often fails during hurricanes or earthquakes. BitChat creates an instant emergency network.
Hiking, camping, or traveling in areas with no signal? Keep in touch with your group using just your phones.