No Internet, load? Use FireChat for instant messaging

(Facebook photo)

MANILA –FireChat, developed by Open Garden, is a free messaging app which allows smartphone users to send messages without relying to cellular load or Internet connection. It simply uses built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi radios in phones to directly connect to other devices.

Previously only offering public messaging, FireChat’s communication channels used to be seen by every user just like in a social networking site’s feed.

On Thursday, it launches its new private messaging feature. Since the app travels to other devices to reach the recipient, a message sent privately is encrypted until it reaches the intended receiver.

“We know this technology will be useful in a country like the Philippines where smartphone penetration is skyrocketing but paid networks are unreliable and so expensive that they are out of the reach of most,” Open Garden Global Marketing head Marina Azcarate said.

“People can use FireChat on an everyday basis but also in situations of disaster when networks are destroyed to ask for help, find relatives or to receive updates about preparedness and relief. We know that timely information can save lives, especially if delivered over free networks,” Azcarate added.

With the launching of its new feature coinciding the metro-wide earthquake drill, Open Garden believes that their app can be used during disaster situations.

“FireChat will be useful [on] an everyday basis but also in preparation for emergency situations when networks collapse… We think it’s a great coincidence that our launch coincides with the Nationwide Earthquake Drill,” Azcarate said.

FireChat has already been used in Hong Kong’s Umbrella movement and in Iraq and Iran’s internet blackouts.