Text without internet
Exchange messages via MeshCore without any internet connection, WiFi, or mobile Signal. Stay in touch during emergencies, power cuts, or trips to remote locations.
When internet is not an option
Internet-based messaging dominates modern communication. WhatsApp, iMessage, Telegram, email. All require connectivity. When that connectivity disappears, so does your ability to reach anyone. MeshCore offers a fundamentally different approach: messages that travel via radio waves, requiring no infrastructure whatsoever.
This guide explains how to send text messages, share your position, and broadcast emergency alerts through the mesh network. Everything works completely offline, independent of internet or mobile coverage.
Sending messages without internet
1. Pair via Bluetooth
Your LoRa radio connects to your smartphone through Bluetooth. This is a local connection only, no internet required at any stage.
2. Launch the MeshCore App
The app shows available contacts and channels. You can see which users are reachable through the mesh network.
3. Compose your message
Type your message in the app, much like any messaging application. Keep messages concise, there is a 237 character limit per message.
4. Transmit via mesh
Your message broadcasts via radio Signals. If the recipient is beyond direct range, repeaters automatically relay it onward.
What you can send
💬 Text messages
Standard messages up to 237 characters. Ideal for quick updates, questions, or sharing critical information.
📍 Position sharing
Transmit your GPS coordinates to others. Invaluable during evacuations or when someone needs to find you.
🆘 Emergency broadcasts
Send an SOS Signal to all nearby users. Transmitted with priority status for urgent situations.
📊 Status information
Share battery level, Signal quality, or other technical data with contacts.
Effective offline messaging
Be concise
Maximum 237 characters. Every word should count. Get your point across directly.
Expect some delay
Messages may take 30 seconds to several minutes depending on how many hops are required.
Watch your battery
Frequent messaging uses more power than standby. Plan your communications sensibly.
Test beforehand
Before you actually need it, verify that your messages successfully reach your contacts.
Choose appropriate channels
Public channels for general information, private messages for sensitive communications.
Share location wisely
Position sharing is useful but consider privacy implications before broadcasting your location.
Questions answered
How quickly do messages arrive?
Between 30 seconds and 5 minutes typically, depending on distance and number of relay hops. Direct range messages usually arrive within 30 seconds.
Can I send images without internet?
No, MeshCore handles text, locations, and basic data only. The protocol is optimised for efficient, fast text communication.
Does it work if my phone has no Signal?
Absolutely. Only Bluetooth is needed between your phone and the LoRa radio. The radio handles everything else via radio waves.
Can others intercept my messages?
Public channel messages are visible to everyone on that channel. Private messages use end-to-end encryption that no one can read.
What if no one responds?
Check that others are within network range. Move outside or to higher ground for better coverage. Verify your device settings are correct.
Can I message multiple people at once?
Yes, via channels you reach everyone subscribed to that channel. You can also create groups for specific sets of contacts.
Communication that requires nothing
Messaging without internet is remarkably straightforward with MeshCore. No monthly fees, no reliance on any provider. Just you, your device, and the mesh network.