Knit: Offline Mesh Messenger

Knit is a free messenger by Jeff Mixon that lets you chat device to device over Wi-Fi Aware and Bluetooth without internet or accounts.

Developer: Jeff Mixon69 MBUpdated: Oct 15, 2026

Get Knit

Knit is free, carries no ads or in-app purchases, and needs Android 10 or newer; the download is about 69 MB. Nearby phones pass your messages onward, so chats can travel beyond your own range, and direct and group messages are end-to-end encrypted. It suits festival goers, travellers, campers and anyone facing outages, and has been updated to version 2.9.0 on 2026-10-15.

Screenshots

Knit main chat list showing recent conversations and the public Nearby room for local messaging.

Knit private chat screen with end-to-end encrypted messages, quoted replies, and emoji reactions.

Knit group chat interface displaying multi-member conversation with @-mentions and shared images.

Knit Nearby public room broadcasting messages to all Knit users within wireless range.

Knit settings screen with options for Internet relays, Meshtastic radio pairing, and encrypted backup.

Knit contact safety verification via QR code scan to confirm encryption keys for a secure chat.

Knit file sharing view sending a large file directly over Wi-Fi with progress indicator.

Knit dark mode appearance with Material You dynamic colors applied across the messaging interface.

Size: 69 MB
Requires Android: 10
Updated: Oct 15, 2026
Installs: 1K+
Category: Tools
Developer: Jeff Mixon
Content rating: Everyone
Package: app.getknit.knit
Free: ✓

Knit is a peer-to-peer messaging app that operates without internet or accounts, forming direct device-to-device chats over Wi-Fi Aware and Bluetooth. It creates a mesh-like network where messages hop through nearby devices, extending reach as more users come online. The app emphasizes privacy, end-to-end encryption for private conversations, and optional relays or long-range radio for extended coverage, all without central servers or ads. The latest version released in 2026 continues to refine usability and performance while preserving its no-internet model, with a focus on staying accessible on Android 10 or newer and maintaining minimal system requirements.

Key features

Public Nearby room for broadcast within range
End-to-end encrypted private 1:1 messages
Multi-member group chats with encryption
Quoted replies, emoji reactions, and @mentions
Rich media support including images, GIFs, and large files
Voice notes, file transfers, and cross-device backup

How to install

Tap the download button on this page
If Android prompts you, allow your browser or file manager to install apps
Open the downloaded APK file
Tap Install to proceed with the installation
Wait for the installation to complete and then open the app
Review and grant optional permissions if prompted (minimum Android 10 required)

Get Knit

Pros

No internet or phone number required, and no central server
End-to-end encryption for direct and group chats
Offered as free software under GPL-3.0-or-later
Optional long-range LoRa radios and internet relays for extended reach
On-device content filtering and privacy-preserving features
Lightweight footprint with a focused feature set

Cons

Requires proximity to other devices to communicate effectively
Public Nearby room is unencrypted by design and not suitable for confidential messages
Features rely on ongoing device-to-device connectivity; performance varies with crowd density
No built-in traditional storefront or ecosystem integration for distribution
Advanced options like Meshtastic LoRa require extra hardware and setup

Older versions

Version	Size	Requires Android	Updated
2.9.0	69 MB	10	Oct 15, 2026
2.8.0	69 MB	10	Oct 4, 2026
2.7.0	68 MB	10	Sep 26, 2026
2.6.0	68 MB	10	Sep 17, 2026

Power users who need a private, serverless chat experience; event attendees and remote travelers who rely on device-to-device messaging; privacy-conscious individuals seeking encrypted, offline-first communication

Consider pairing a Meshtastic LoRa radio for extended range if you regularly operate beyond standard proximity; keep in mind that the public Nearby room is unencrypted by design

Permissions

LocationCameraMicrophoneWi-Fi connection information

FAQ

How do I install the Knit APK on my Android device?

After downloading the APK, open it from your file manager or browser. Android will ask you to allow installation from that source—grant it, then follow the prompts. The app requires Android 10 or newer and is about 69 MB.

What is the current version of Knit?

The latest version is 2.9.0, released on October 15, 2026.

Does Knit include ads or in-app purchases?

No. Knit has no ads, no in-app purchases, and is free to use. It is funded by voluntary tips.

Can I use Knit offline or without mobile data?

Yes. The app works without internet or cell service by connecting directly to nearby phones over Wi-Fi Aware and Bluetooth. It also lets you send messages to people far away by passing them device to device, and you can enable optional internet relays if you want.

What are some alternatives to Knit for messaging without internet?

Other tools in the same category include apps that use local networks, Bluetooth, or mesh radio to communicate without a central server. Look for messengers that emphasize peer-to-peer connections, offline operation, and end-to-end encryption.

Knit provides a robust offline-first messaging solution with a strong privacy stance and flexible range options. It excels in environments with poor or no internet access and for users who prefer a serverless model, though it relies on device proximity for core messaging and exposes an unencrypted public channel by design. It’s a compelling choice for experienced users who value control, encryption, and the option to extend reach with optional hardware.