Bitchat is a decentralized messaging app for iOS and macOS that lets you communicate without accounts, servers, or phone numbers. Nearby devices form a Bluetooth Low Energy mesh network for offline communication; when internet is available, the Nostr protocol bridges to users worldwide.Documentation Index
Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://mintlify.com/permissionlesstech/bitchat/llms.txt
Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
Introduction
Learn what Bitchat is, how it works, and why it was built
Quickstart
Get Bitchat running on iOS or macOS in minutes
Architecture
Understand the dual-transport mesh and Nostr design
Protocol Reference
Deep-dive into the BLE mesh and Nostr protocol specs
What is Bitchat?
Bitchat operates across two complementary transports:- Bluetooth mesh — devices in range automatically discover each other and relay messages up to 7 hops, with no internet required. Ideal for protests, disasters, remote areas, and anywhere connectivity is unreliable.
- Nostr protocol — when internet is available, Bitchat connects to a global network of 290+ relays for location-based channels and private fallback delivery.
Key Features
Offline-First Mesh
Multi-hop BLE relay works completely without internet
End-to-End Encryption
Noise XX protocol with forward secrecy for live sessions
No Accounts
Identity from local cryptographic keys, never a server
IRC-Style Commands
/msg, /who, /ping, /group, /pay, and more
Location Channels
Geohash-based public rooms via Nostr relays
Panic Wipe
Triple-tap instantly destroys all keys and data
Explore the Docs
Core Concepts
Dual-transport architecture, identity model, and channel types
Guides
Messaging, slash commands, groups, and location channels
Privacy & Security
Encryption details, Tor routing, panic wipe, and privacy model
Contributing
Build from source, verify releases, and localize the app