Internet shutdowns in Iran and Uganda have fuelled a surge in downloads of Bitchat, a messaging app created by former Twitter founder Jack Dorsey. ADVERTISEMENTThe decentralised, peer-to-peer messaging app recently rose to the top of Apple’s and Google’s app stores in Uganda ahead of a contentious election, which ultimately resulted in the return of President Yoweri Museveni for a seventh term. In Iran, the app has gained popularity as authorities impose Internet shutdowns to curb nationwide protests. Beyond that, mesh technology comes into play. Any device running the app can automatically form a mesh network that relays messages and extends overall coverage.

Source: The Telegraph January 24, 2026 23:12 UTC