Radar Chat Launches With Encrypted Messaging and Self-Custodial Bitcoin Lightning Payments

Radar Chat launched Tuesday, offering encrypted messaging alongside self-custodial Bitcoin payments through the Lightning Network. According to NS3.AI, founder Vikrant Sharma said the app uses Signal’s open-source protocol but was developed independently from Signal. Sharma said Radar has tested Lightning payments up to $5,000. The launch positions Radar as a messaging product that combines end-to-end encryption with in-app Bitcoin payment functionality while keeping users in control of their funds through self-custody.