Bitchat is a messaging tool that works without the internet, using technologies such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi direct to create direct connections between phones. Messages can pass from one device to another in a “mesh network” until they reach the intended recipient, even if the internet is not available or networks are blocked.
Wine’s call comes amid widespread concern among opposition supporters about the possibility of communication restrictions during the elections, although official statements deny any planned shutdown.
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What Bitchat Is and How It Works
Bitchat does not require mobile data, Wi-Fi or a central server. Phones with the app detect and connect to each other over Bluetooth, forming a network of nearby devices that can relay messages. Users do not need to register with a phone number or email, and messages are encrypted so only the intended recipient can read them.
Developed in 2025, Bitchat promotes privacy and decentralization and was reported to be created, in part, with open-source contributions from technology figures interested in secure, offline communication tools.
Advantages of Bitchat
No internet needed: Bitchat can send messages when mobile networks fail or are unavailable. This makes it potentially valuable during network blackouts, natural disasters, or in remote areas where connectivity is weak.
Enhanced privacy: The app encrypts messages so only senders and recipients can read them. It also operates without storing data on central servers and does not require personal identifiers like phone numbers, reducing the risk of tracking or data breaches.
Resilience to censorship: Because Bitchat does not depend on internet infrastructure, it is harder for authorities or outside actors to block or censor messages once the network of local devices is in place.
Low cost: Users avoid data charges that come with traditional messaging apps because Bitchat uses device-to-device technology.
Disadvantages and Limitations
Limited range: Bitchat relies on Bluetooth and short-range wireless technologies. It works best when many people nearby have the app. In sparsely populated areas, messages may not travel far because fewer devices are available to relay them.
Dependent on user adoption: For the mesh network to be effective, many people must install and use the app. If adoption is low, connectivity drops and messages may fail to reach their destination.
Slower delivery: Unlike internet-based services that connect instantly across continents, messages on Bitchat might travel slowly, especially if there are fewer relaying devices in the area.
Technology still evolving: Experts note that offline mesh messaging is a developing field, and early versions of apps like Bitchat may have bugs or lack features users expect from mainstream services.
Why the App Matters Now
Supporters of Bobi Wine view Bitchat as a backup plan in case internet services slow down or stop — a scenario that has occurred in past elections, despite official assurances to the contrary. Critics of any shutdown argue it would affect communication, business and access to information for ordinary Ugandans.
Government officials have said they do not plan to cut internet access, and there is no legal basis clearly allowing such a blackout during national polls. But calls by political figures to prepare alternative communication channels highlight widespread public distrust around election processes and information flow.
What happens ahead
Whether Bitchat sees widespread use in Uganda will depend on how many people install the app and whether they can make it work effectively in their communities.
For now, the conversation around offline messaging has become part of a larger debate about freedom of expression, communication rights, and how citizens can stay connected during key moments of the country’s democratic process in developing countries.
