Bitchat Most-Downloaded on Apple App Store in Uganda
Bitchat, an internet-free messaging app, is the top download in Uganda following a government-mandated internet shutdown for the presidential election.Summary
Bitchat has become the most-downloaded application on both the Apple App Store and Google Play in Uganda after authorities cut off internet access ahead of the presidential election, marking the third consecutive election where this has occurred. Officials claim the shutdown, effective Tuesday evening, is necessary to curb the spread of online misinformation, though critics argue it suppresses vital election information. Bitchat, which operates using Bluetooth mesh networks without needing the internet, is topping the charts alongside Virtual Private Network (VPN) apps, signaling a high demand for alternative communication. Uganda Communications Commission executive director Nyombi Thembo had previously stated the internet would remain active and even claimed technical capacity to disable Bitchat. Bitchat has previously proven critical in other regions facing communication disruptions, such as during protests in Nepal and after Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.
(Source：Cointelegraph)