Iranian authorities have restricted internet access amid ongoing mass unrest. In response, the community has urged residents to use BitChat, an encrypted messenger supported by Jack Dorsey.
According to Chromestats, the app saw over 43,000 downloads in the last 24 hours alone, with a weekly surge of 437,900. However, the exact percentage of downloads originating from Iran is currently unknown.
BitChat has previously gained significant traction in Nepal and Indonesia during protests against local governments. A key feature of the messenger is that it does not require an internet connection: every Bluetooth-enabled device in the network acts as both a client and a relay, transmitting encrypted messages over distances of up to 30 meters.
High-speed internet and communication could also be provided by Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites. Users have called on the billionaire to deploy equipment in Iran, a move he previously made during rallies in June. Reports suggest Musk has already responded to these requests.
Probability of Iranian Leader’s Ouster Surpasses 50% on Polymarket
Polymarket users currently estimate the probability of Ali Khamenei being overthrown at 55%. This figure has jumped by 20% in the last 24 hours.
The total betting volume has already exceeded $559,000. The sharp rise was triggered by mass protests and a warning from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding potential strikes if the rallies are violently suppressed. The death toll from the unrest has already surpassed 45 people.
As recently as early January, traders estimated the probability of Khamenei’s departur
