Connect Beyond the Grid
Fernweh is a hybrid messenger that works everywhere, online or off. Chat, call, and share files over a decentralized Bluetooth mesh network when there's no internet, and seamlessly switch to an encrypted online relay when connectivity returns. No central servers storing your data. No compromises.
Why Choose Fernweh?
- Works Online & Offline: Communicate over a peer-to-peer Bluetooth mesh network or through an encrypted online relay, whichever is available.
- Voice & Video Calls: Make end-to-end encrypted audio and video calls, with full native call integration and push notifications even when the app is closed.
- End-to-End Encrypted Everything: Messages, calls, media, and group chats are all protected with end-to-end encryption, including MLS protocol for groups.
- No Central Servers: Your messages live on your device. There's no cloud inbox to hack, no metadata to harvest.
- Built for Real Life: Whether you're off-grid, in a crowded venue, or just privacy-conscious, Fernweh adapts.
Key Features:
- Offline Mesh Messaging: Send texts and files over Bluetooth and WiFi Direct to devices within 100 meters, no internet required.
- Online Relay: When you're online, messages route through an encrypted WebSocket relay for unlimited range.
- Audio & Video Calls: Crystal-clear encrypted calls with native call UI, VoIP push, and connection quality indicators.
- Group Chats: Create encrypted group conversations with MLS protocol security.
- Media & File Sharing: Share photos and documents with encrypted cloud storage and local persistence.
- Message Forwarding & Replies: Forward messages across chats and reply inline to keep conversations organized.
- Connection Requests: Add contacts through the mesh or online, like a friend request, but decentralized.
- Chat Folders: Organize your conversations into custom folders and filters.
- App Lock: Protect the app with biometric or passcode authentication.
- Profiles & Reputation: Customizable profiles with photos, bios, and community reputation scores.
- User Blocking: Block unwanted contacts across both mesh and online channels.
- Dark & Light Themes: Full theme support including system-matching mode.
- Push Notifications: Never miss a message or call, even when the app is in the background.
Ideal For:
- Travelers & Adventurers: Stay in touch while exploring remote trails, deserts, or mountain ranges with zero signal.
- Festivals & Events: Communicate reliably in crowded venues where cell networks are overloaded.
- Emergency & Disaster Response: Coordinate when infrastructure is down, Fernweh keeps working.
- Privacy-First Users: For anyone who believes messaging should be private by default, not by opt-in.
- Communities & Teams: Encrypted group chats with organized folders for coordinated communication.
How It Works:
Fernweh creates a peer-to-peer mesh network using Bluetooth and WiFi Direct between nearby devices. Messages are encrypted and relayed device-to-device until they reach their recipient. When the internet is available, an encrypted online relay extends your reach globally. Calls connect through secure signaling with end-to-end encryption. Everything is stored locally on your device, never on a central server.
Get Started Today!
Download Fernweh and take back control of your conversations, online, offline, everywhere.
the app should not require email verification for local messaging. also the verification email never came through so i could not use the app.
Revolutionary
glennonchain
Until offline protocol I always had to worry about if I’d have cell connection in a crowded area or event One of the few new apps I’ve downloaded lately that has proven to be truly helpful
This saved me!
Isabellalaaaallalalallala
I got lost at an event and was able to communicate with my boyfriend through this app! Thank you!
Freedom technology
George Appingston
Fernweh is the ultimate way to achieve truly private, fully sovereign information and value exchange. This changes everything
- View-once photos in direct and group chats
- See who viewed your status, with view receipts
- Group icons load faster and no longer flicker
- Other fixes and improvements
Version 2.0.11
The developer, Offline Protocol, Inc., indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .
Data Not Linked to You
The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:
Location
Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More
Accessibility
The developer has not yet indicated which accessibility features this app supports. Learn More
Information
Seller
Offline Protocol, Inc.
Size
133.5 MB
Category
Utilities
Compatibility
Requires iOS 15.1 or later.
iPhone Requires iOS 15.1 or later.
iPod touch Requires iOS 15.1 or later.
Mac Requires macOS 12.0 or later and a Mac with Apple M1 chip or later.