Has anyone here tried the Berty Messenger app? It’s a cross-platform encrypted messenger with the ability to communicate over Bluetooth. I’m really impressed with how capable it is already, but wouldn’t rely on it for anything too sensitive in it’s early state. To me, it looks like a great way to send offline messages in the event of a service disruption.
Basically, it works like Briar, but it’s available on iOS and Android so it has the potential for greater adoption. Until now, I’ve relied on Bridgeify for offline communications with iOS devices, but I’m glad to have an Open Source alternative
I still think Briar is a better option for Android based systems, but it’s nice to have another tool, and especially a cross-platform one.
Range is an issue, but Bluetooth can reach up-to 100 meters. It depends on a lot of factors.
I’m really interested in the Meshtastic project. You do have to buy a physical radio, but it allows you to send encrypted messages over longer distances (and through a mesh network to extend range if there are a lot of devices nearby). I can see it having more utility, despite the upfront costs, than using your phone’s bluetooth.