BitChat vs imo
BitChat
bitchat.freeimo
imo.imSide by side
| Figure | BitChat | imo |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | — | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Encrypted Messaging Apps | 8.9 (#1) | 8.2 (#10) |
| Integrations | The listed internet messaging transport is the Nostr protocol, which connects BitChat users through relays. | The privacy policy describes iOS integration with Siri and access to iCloud Drive for sharing files. |
| Platforms | The maker's site lists iOS, macOS, and Android builds; iOS requires version 16.0 or later, macOS 13.0 or later, and Android 8.0 or later. | imo lists Android, iOS, Windows and Mac downloads, and its FAQ also describes using imo Web in a browser. |
Plans
In their own words
BitChat
BitChat is a decentralized messaging app that uses Bluetooth mesh for nearby communication and Nostr relays for internet messaging. Bluetooth messages can pass between nearby devices across as many as seven hops without internet access. When Bluetooth is unavailable, the app can use Nostr; if neither route is available, messages can wait in a queue. Geographic chat rooms use geohash coordinates.
The app requires no account, phone number, or central server. Live mesh sessions use Noise XX for mutual authentication and forward secrecy, while private Nostr messages use an app-specific encrypted format that works only with BitChat clients. However, mesh announcements expose static keys and nicknames in cleartext, and a persistent per-device identifier can allow nearby listeners to follow a device over time and place. A triple-tap emergency wipe clears app data, including identity keys and queued messages. Android adds Wi-Fi Aware on supported devices and built-in Tor. BitChat is available for iOS, Android, and macOS, and is free.
imo
imo is a communication app for internet calls and messaging, available on Android, iOS, macOS, web, and Windows. It offers HD audio and video calls, including international calls, and group video calls for up to 20 participants with no fixed time limit. Chats support real-time messages, photos, videos, voice recordings, and group conversations; its Big Group feature supports up to 5,000 members. Stories hold photos, videos, and text updates for 24 hours. Listed privacy features include end-to-end encryption, Time Machine, and disappearing messages, while account controls include two-step verification and spam blocking. Encryption coverage is mixed. Instant message translation is available, and the privacy policy says Google Translate may provide it. That policy also says imo collects usage data, including communication partners, times, and message content. On iOS, imo integrates with Siri and can access iCloud Drive for file sharing. The app is free, though mobile carrier data charges may apply to internet calls.