Apple iOS: New 'FireChat' App to let Users Chat with 'No' Internet Connection; Myth Busted?
Open Garden Inc., the crowd sourced connectivity provider is launching its first app for Apple iPhone named FireChat. This start-up is known for its Android loyalty but looks like they want to be friendly with Apple users as well.
If you are hearing this start-up for the first time: their "network sharing app" for Android was a noteworthy creation. FireChat is an iOS messaging app that allows user to connect, chat and share between iOS devices.
FireChat is introduced for both iOS 7 and iOS 7.1 devices which will let iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users to chat even when there is no Internet connection or mobile network coverage. This app is optimized for iPhone 5.
This app utilizes the "Multipeer Connectivity Framework" in iOS 7 to give people the ability to chat with those around them without a Wi-Fi or a data connection.
Open Garden's CEO Micha Benoliel said, "People ask me: how does this work without an Internet connection? Thanks to the Multipeer Connectivity Framework introduced in iOS 7, we are now able to deliver a best-in-class peer-to-peer chat experience to anyone with an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch."
Perhaps, this is the first app that has defied the myth that messaging service requires Internet for communication.
The Talking Point
Adding cherry on top, FireChat supports "photo transfers" as well. Also the company quoted that FireChat has "no significant impact on battery consumption."
Although the app needs no internet connection or network connection, FireChat comes handy by providing a way of communication for users in situations like disaster recovery and public safety.
This app will also be helpful in places with no reliable connectivity surrounding schools and colleges, stadiums, public transportation, clubs, concerts, conferences, construction sites or outdoors, says Open Garden Inc. to the Press.
The Catch
Nevertheless, the app only works for Apple iOS users who are within 10 meters (30 feet) from each other.
Freeware
FireChat is available in App Store as a freeware. You can checkout this app here. Will Android get its own FireChat soon?
What do you think of this app?