Group chat via mesh network
Organize group chats without internet via MeshCore. Coordinate with family, neighbors or response teams during emergencies in the Netherlands
Why group chat is important
During emergencies, group communication is crucial. You don't want to message everyone individually โ you want one message to your whole family, neighborhood or response team. With MeshCore group chat you can do that, completely without internet.
Channels work like WhatsApp groups, but via radio. Everyone on a channel receives your messages. Perfect for organizing help, sharing updates, or coordinating during evacuations.
Types of channels
๐ป Public channels
Everyone nearby can read and participate. Ideal for general updates, warnings or community messages. Note: not encrypted.
๐ Private channels
Only members with the correct key can participate. Perfect for family communication or small response teams. Encrypted for privacy.
๐๏ธ Neighborhood channels
Channels per neighborhood or street. Coordinate with direct neighbors, share local info, organize help. Grows organically with the network.
๐จ Emergency channels
Special for crisis situations. High priority, no chat โ only important announcements. Reserve for real emergencies.
Using group chat
1. Join a channel
Scan the QR code of a channel, or manually enter the channel settings via the app.
2. Choose a recognizable name
Use your first name or nickname, so others know who you are. "John Rotterdam" is better than "User_1234".
3. Send your first message
Type your message and send. Everyone on the channel receives it automatically via the mesh network.
4. Monitor multiple channels
You can be a member of multiple channels simultaneously. Switch between channels in the app.
5. Create your own channel
Make a new channel for your family or team. Share the QR code with others to invite them.
Benefits of group chat
Efficient communication
One message to everyone. Don't waste time with individual messages.
Coordination
Organize help, share resources, plan evacuations. Everyone stays informed.
No internet needed
Works completely offline via LoRa radio. Power outage? No problem.
Privacy control
Choose between public or private. You decide who can read.
Locally focused
Focus on your immediate surroundings. Relevant info for your neighborhood in the Netherlands.
Free
No subscription costs. Just sign up and start.
Frequently asked questions
How many people can be in one channel?
Technically no limit, but keep groups under 50 people for clarity. Large groups = many messages.
Can I remove someone from a channel?
Only in private channels where you are the administrator. Public channels are open to everyone.
How do I create a private channel?
Go to settings โ Channels โ New channel. Choose a name, set a password, share the QR code with trusted people.
Are group messages also encrypted?
Only in private channels with a shared key. Public channels are not encrypted โ everyone can read.
Can I archive or leave channels?
Yes, via channel settings you can leave, mute or hide channels. You can always rejoin later.
What if there's too much spam in a channel?
Public channels can suffer from spam. Switch to private channels with trusted people, or ignore public channels and use direct messaging.
Organize your surroundings with group chat
Group chat via mesh network makes the difference during emergencies in the Netherlands. Stay in contact with who matters, without depending on internet or telephony.