Apple has removed Bitchat, a decentralized messaging app created by Block CEO Jack Dorsey, from its App Store in China following a request from the country's internet regulator, as announced by Dorsey on X. The Cyberspace Administration of China cited the app's non-compliance with regulations governing online services that have the capacity to shape public opinion or mobilize society, which necessitates a security evaluation prior to launch. As a result, Apple's review team informed Dorsey that the app's listing and beta version would no longer be accessible in China, although it remains available in other countries. The app's design, which relies solely on Bluetooth and mesh networks, eliminates the need for an internet connection, rendering it impervious to government restrictions through traditional means such as internet shutdowns or firewall filtering.
This unique architecture has made Bitchat a preferred choice among protesters in several countries, including Madagascar, Uganda, Nepal, Indonesia, and Iran, where authorities have attempted to curb dissent by limiting internet access. With over three million downloads across platforms and more than 92,000 downloads in the past week alone, the app's popularity continues to grow, although regional breakdowns are not available. Additionally, the Google Play Store reports over one million registered downloads.