Jack Dorsey, the former CEO and co-founder of Twitter, is embarking on a new venture that reflects his ongoing interest in niche technology solutions. His latest project, a Bluetooth-based messaging application called Bitchat, aims to facilitate communication without the need for internet connectivity, Wi-Fi, or cellular service. Utilizing peer-to-peer connections, the app can transmit messages over a distance of up to 300 meters.
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In a recent tweet, Dorsey shared insights into his motivations, stating, “my weekend project to learn about bluetooth mesh networks, relays and store and forward models, message encryption models, and a few other things.” He described Bitchat as embodying “IRC vibes,” suggesting a nod to the early days of internet chat protocols.
As the app continues to undergo review for its full release, Dorsey noted that the initial testing phase on TestFlight has reached its capacity of 10,000 users. In a follow-up tweet, he acknowledged the overwhelming interest, saying, “Oops. TestFlight full. The app is still in review for full release.”
The concept of mesh networks has sparked intrigue among users, with one commenter highlighting their potential for resilient communication, especially in areas with unreliable infrastructure. This user drew parallels between Bitchat’s store-and-forward approach and early packet radio networks, prompting a discussion about future enhancements, including routing optimization algorithms.
Dorsey’s engagement with users has been candid, as he responded to inquiries about the app’s capabilities with a simple, “eventually.”
However, the reception has not been entirely positive. Some users have taken a more skeptical view, with comments suggesting that the app may be misused in certain contexts. One user humorously remarked, “This will be used almost entirely for drug deals and prostitution in crowded third world favela situations.” Others expressed a sense of déjà vu, with quips like, “30 years too late,” and “Imagine texting someone you are in speaking range with… dystopian.”
Despite the mixed reactions, the project has generated a wave of memes and commentary across social media platforms, showcasing the diverse opinions surrounding Dorsey’s latest innovation.
‘bitchat’ Jack Dorsey’s New Side Project Is A Bluetooth Messenger App; The Internet Begs ‘No More Chatting Apps’
Jack Dorsey, the former CEO and co-founder of Twitter, is embarking on a new venture that reflects his ongoing interest in niche technology solutions. His latest project, a Bluetooth-based messaging application called Bitchat, aims to facilitate communication without the need for internet connectivity, Wi-Fi, or cellular service. Utilizing peer-to-peer connections, the app can transmit messages over a distance of up to 300 meters.
Exploring New Technologies
In a recent tweet, Dorsey shared insights into his motivations, stating, “my weekend project to learn about bluetooth mesh networks, relays and store and forward models, message encryption models, and a few other things.” He described Bitchat as embodying “IRC vibes,” suggesting a nod to the early days of internet chat protocols.
As the app continues to undergo review for its full release, Dorsey noted that the initial testing phase on TestFlight has reached its capacity of 10,000 users. In a follow-up tweet, he acknowledged the overwhelming interest, saying, “Oops. TestFlight full. The app is still in review for full release.”
The concept of mesh networks has sparked intrigue among users, with one commenter highlighting their potential for resilient communication, especially in areas with unreliable infrastructure. This user drew parallels between Bitchat’s store-and-forward approach and early packet radio networks, prompting a discussion about future enhancements, including routing optimization algorithms.
Dorsey’s engagement with users has been candid, as he responded to inquiries about the app’s capabilities with a simple, “eventually.”
However, the reception has not been entirely positive. Some users have taken a more skeptical view, with comments suggesting that the app may be misused in certain contexts. One user humorously remarked, “This will be used almost entirely for drug deals and prostitution in crowded third world favela situations.” Others expressed a sense of déjà vu, with quips like, “30 years too late,” and “Imagine texting someone you are in speaking range with… dystopian.”
Despite the mixed reactions, the project has generated a wave of memes and commentary across social media platforms, showcasing the diverse opinions surrounding Dorsey’s latest innovation.