New Delhi: Have you ever imagined that messages could be sent from one phone to another without a mobile network, Wi-Fi connection, or mobile data? In this age of modern technology, this is no longer just a fantasy. New apps like the recently popular “Bitchat” are revolutionizing this process. This Bluetooth-based messaging technology is emerging as a new and secure option for connecting people even without internet coverage.
The journey of digital messaging began with SMS.
Mobile messaging began in 1992, when the world’s first test SMS, “Merry Christmas,” was sent. At that time, messages could only be sent with a limited length of 160 characters, but this technology laid a strong foundation for future digital communications. Later, advanced apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and WeChat emerged, offering modern features like photos, videos, voice notes, and group chats. However, the biggest limitation of all these traditional platforms is that they require active internet and a central server to operate.
How does Bluetooth mesh networking work?
Now, technology has entered a new era. Whether it’s the Bitchat app recently introduced by X co-founder Jack Dorsey, or other platforms like Bridgefy, Briar, and Jott, they all rely on Bluetooth Mesh Networking technology. This system connects two or more smartphones directly via Bluetooth. It requires neither a SIM card nor a user account. Messages travel directly from one device to another, rather than going through a third-party server.
Lifesavers will be created in disaster and no-network zones
Bluetooth messaging technology is extremely useful in situations where mobile networks are completely down, during natural disasters like earthquakes or floods, when telecom towers collapse, during large music concerts, sports stadiums, or in remote mountainous areas and forests where network signals are extremely weak. In emergencies, when internet services are shut down in a particular area, this technology is also capable of sending messages locally.