Messaging apps typically rely on servers and the internet, so if the internet goes down, sending and receiving messages becomes impossible. Offline apps offer an alternative, creating a direct connection between smartphones via Bluetooth Low Energy or Wi-Fi Direct. These apps form a decentralized mesh network, with each device acting as a relay, transmitting messages to neighboring devices, increasing the range. Most of these apps can be downloaded from the Play Store, App Store, or RuStore, and some don’t even require registration—a one-time grant of Bluetooth and geolocation access is sufficient.
Six solutions available in Russia stand out:
Bitchat —supports public channels and encrypted private chats with message caching for up to 12 hours. Developed by Jack Dorsey, the creator of Twitter.
Bridgefy —one of the most popular offline messengers, allowing you to send text, voice messages, and geolocation. It requires an internet connection for the first launch.
Briar offers enhanced privacy and operates over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct.
Jami is fully decentralized, operates peer-to-peer, and allows offline communication with local peer detection enabled.
Zapya is a file-sharing service, but has a built-in offline chat for private conversations without saving history.
Berkanan Messenger supports private and group chats with encryption, as well as audio calls and message relaying across other devices.
In a number of Russian regions, mobile internet will be blocked on the eve of Victory Day and on the day itself (in some cities, such as Moscow, even resources on the “white list” will be unavailable on May 9). Offline messengers allow you to stay connected even in this situation and avoid being affected by blocking and restrictions.
