Stuck in a place without internet? These apps will keep you connected

WEB DESK: In an era of omnipresent connectivity, there are still scenarios where users may find themselves without access to the internet. The internet shutdowns in Muharram, a camping trip to the mountains, Signal jammers at a jalsa – these are just a few examples where you would think you are connectivity impaired but guess what?

In such cases, offline messaging apps can be lifesavers. These apps allow users to send and receive messages without a data connection, using technologies like Bluetooth, peer-to-peer WiFi, and mesh networks.

FireChat, an innovative offline messaging app, uses Bluetooth and peer-to-peer WiFi to establish a mesh network for data transmission. The more people use FireChat, the larger and faster the network becomes, making it ideal for use in large groups, such as on a school campus or public transport.

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Bridgefy is another offline texting app that allows for completely encrypted communications without an internet connection. It can send data directly to other phones within a range of 230ft/75 yards using Bluetooth. It also allows for mesh-network communications, with unlimited hops.

The Serval Mesh App creates direct connections between cellular phones through their WiFi networks. It uses a store and forward system called Rhizome, which can achieve broad distance communication with minimal mesh connections.

Hike, a peppy Messenger, offers offline texting among its many features. In the absence of internet, Hike can transmit data to other users within 100 meters. If the recipient has switched off his internet, the app delivers the message in the form of a normal SMS.

Signal Offline Messenger is a WiFi Direct messenger that works by sending a signal to discover nearby devices. The data are encrypted and WiFi direct data transfer occurs at 250mbps, ensuring high-speed transfer of images and videos.

Briar app can send messages even in data blindspot area through Bluetooth. It doesn’t have a central server concept and all the messages are synced directly between users’ mobile devices with Briar app.

Other apps that support offline messaging include GO SMS Pro, GroupMe, Textra, Chomp SMS, Handcent Next SMS, and Pulse SMS. These apps offer a variety of features including themes, password protection, delayed sending, and more.

These offline messaging apps provide a valuable solution for users to stay connected even without internet access. They leverage various technologies to ensure that messages are delivered, making them a handy tool in areas with poor or no internet connectivity.