Apple removes Jack Dorsey’s decentralized Bitchat from China App Store

Apple has removed the decentralized messaging app Bitchat from the Chinese App Store and TestFlight following a request from China’s Cyberspace Administration, according to Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey.

Dorsey introduced Bitchat in summer 2025 as a decentralized messenger built on Bluetooth Low Energy. The app does not require user accounts, stores data locally on devices, and uses Curve25519 and AES-GCM encryption. It also includes a “panic mode” that deletes all stored data. The app launched on the App Store and Google Play, with developers later creating additional versions using its open-source code.

The removal reportedly followed concerns from Chinese regulators, who said decentralized messaging services could influence public opinion or enable social mobilization. Apple stated that apps published in the App Store must comply with local laws in every country where they are available. The company also prohibits apps that “solicit, promote, or encourage criminal or clearly reckless behavior.”

Journalists note that Chinese authorities take a critical stance toward any decentralized communication tools and social platforms that do not process user data within the country. Bitchat appears to have been no exception.