Web3Builders
In an era where concerns about data privacy, censorship, and centralized control are at an all-time high, a new kind of messaging platform is emerging. OpenChat (oc.app) is not just another chat app — it’s a decentralized, blockchain-powered communication platform that gives users complete control over their data, identity, and even the direction of the app itself.
What Is OpenChat?
OpenChat is a fully decentralized messaging app built on the Internet Computer (ICP) blockchain. Unlike traditional apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, which rely on centralized servers and often harvest user data, OpenChat stores all messages and interactions on-chain. This architecture ensures privacy, transparency, and censorship resistance.
With a sleek user interface and real-time performance, it feels like any other modern messaging app — but under the hood, it’s a Web3 innovation that empowers users.
​OpenChat (oc.app) was founded by Hamish Peebles, Matthew Grogan, and Julian Jelfs. Together, they established OpenChat Labs Ltd, a UK-based nonprofit organization dedicated to developing and maintaining the OpenChat platform.
Meet the Founders
- Hamish Peebles: A software engineer with a background in mathematics, Hamish transitioned from working primarily with C# to focusing on Rust development for the Internet Computer. He played a pivotal role in the technical development of OpenChat. ​
- Matthew Grogan: With a history of collaboration with Dominic Williams, the founder of DFINITY, Matthew brought extensive experience in software development to the team. His expertise contributed significantly to the architectural design of OpenChat. ​
- Julian Jelfs:Â An experienced developer, Julian joined the founding team to help build and scale OpenChat. His contributions have been integral to the platform’s growth and functionality.Â
The trio was inspired by the potential of the Internet Computer to create a decentralized, scalable, and secure messaging platform. Their combined efforts have positioned OpenChat as a pioneering application in the Web3 ecosystem, emphasizing user privacy, data ownership, and community governance.​
Key Features of OpenChat
1. Decentralized and Trustless
Every message, file, or transaction is stored on the blockchain. There’s no central server that can go down or be censored. This makes OpenChat especially useful in regions where freedom of speech is under threat.
2. Login with Internet Identity
Users sign in using Internet Identity, a secure, private, and passwordless authentication method. You don’t need to provide a phone number or email, protecting your identity and eliminating phishing risks.
3. Built-in Crypto Transactions
OpenChat isn’t just for text. You can send and receive cryptocurrencies — like ICP, ckBTC, or the platform’s own CHAT token — directly in your conversations. It’s like merging messaging and DeFi into one platform.
4. Community Governance
The app is run by its users through a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO). If you hold the CHAT token, you can vote on updates, feature requests, and policies — giving users a real say in how the platform evolves.
5. Earn Through Participation
OpenChat features a rewards system powered by CHIT points, which can be converted into CHAT tokens. The more you engage — whether by chatting, inviting friends, or creating communities — the more you earn.
Why OpenChat Matters
Traditional messaging apps are controlled by corporations whose priorities often don’t align with those of their users. From selling user data to enabling surveillance, these platforms have a history of compromising privacy for profit.
OpenChat flips that model on its head. It’s built by users, for users. By leveraging the power of blockchain and community governance, it offers a platform where privacy, transparency, and freedom are baked into the code.
📢 250+ Web3 Titans Community Members Join OpenChat!
The momentum is real — 250+ members from the Web3 Titans community have joined OpenChat (oc.app), showing strong interest in decentralized, community-owned messaging platforms.
🔥 During the recent Web3 Titans event in Coimbatore, OpenChat emerged as a favorite product among students, builders, and startup founders. Its end-to-end decentralization, privacy-first design, and crypto-native features sparked curiosity and real-world adoption.
Why the Buzz Around OpenChat?
- ✅ No phone numbers or emails — login via Internet Identity
- ✅ Chat + Crypto in one place — send ICP, ckBTC, and more via messages
- âś… Governed by users, not corporations
- ✅ Fully on-chain, built on Internet Computer
🚀 Community Reaction:
“Feels like the Telegram of Web3 — but you actually own your data.”
“This is what secure, modern communication should look like.”
With over 250 users already exploring OpenChat within the Web3 Titans community, it’s clear: decentralized messaging is the next frontier.
How to Get Started
- Visit oc.app
- Click “Launch App” and sign in with Internet Identity
- Join existing chats or create your own community
- Send messages, share files, and even transfer crypto — all in one place
- Earn CHIT points and help shape the future of the platform
Final Thoughts
OpenChat represents a bold new direction for online communication — one where users have real ownership, governance, and privacy. As the Web3 ecosystem continues to grow, platforms like OpenChat are proving that decentralized technology isn’t just about finance — it’s about reclaiming control in every part of our digital lives.
Whether you’re a crypto enthusiast, privacy advocate, or just tired of big tech surveillance, OpenChat is worth exploring.
