Offline Messaging App Bitchat Surges in Madagascar's Unrest
Madagascar's recent unrest, including protests over water and power cuts, has led to a surge in interest in an offline messaging tool called Bitchat. The tool, which operates without an internet connection or phone numbers, has seen a significant increase in searches following the imposition of a dusk-to-dawn curfew to stop looting and clashes.
The unrest, which has resulted in at least five deaths and the removal of the Energy minister, has highlighted the digital divide in Madagascar. While over 18 million mobile subscriptions are active, only 6.6 million residents are online. Bitchat, developed by a group of Malagasy developers known as the Bitchat Team, has stepped in to fill this gap. The app uses the Bitcoin network to finalize transactions and allows users to send BTC over Bluetooth.
Bitchat's popularity has grown rapidly, with searches for the app moving from 0 to 100 on Google Trends in a short period. Its success can be attributed to its ability to operate offline, making it a useful tool during power outages and unrest.
As the unrest in Madagascar continues, so does the interest in Bitchat. The app's offline capabilities have made it a lifeline for many, highlighting the importance of accessible communication tools in times of crisis. With only a small fraction of the population online, Bitchat has bridged the digital divide, allowing people to stay connected and informed despite the challenges posed by the unrest.