Hike Messenger has introduced a new feature called Hike Direct which allows users to send messages off grid, i.e. without the use of telecom networks or an active Internet connection. It lets mobile phones connect with one another directly within a 100 meter radius, send messages and share files directly up to a speed of 40Mbps. Users will have to upgrade to the latest version of the app. The feature is available only for Android users. iOS and Windows Phone users will the get the upgrade next year. Hike Direct uses the same WiFi radio that connects phones to the Internet and establishes a peer-to-peer network between two users. To use it, users need to open a chat with a friend and choose Hike Direct from the three dot menu on top right of the screen. Hike automatically pairs up with the other phone and lets you chat and share files with your friends without the internet. Hike now claims that it has 70 million users in India and that there are about 20 billion messages being sent per month. The company also claims that its users spend about 140 minutes per week on the app. MediaNama's take Technologically, this is one most important updates Hike Messenger has rolled out. However, it needs to be pointed out that Hike Direct establishes only a peer-to-peer network and cannot make a mesh network for a large group as in the case of Firechat. In a mesh network, once a critical mass of people arrive at a location, it goes…
