Yatra MeshP2P · Heart 2 Heart

Help & Setup

Get up and running in minutes. Everything you need to know.

Android Setup

Columba is privacy-first — no account, no tracking, works completely offline.

  1. 1
    Download & Install the APK

    Tap the download button below, open the file, and tap Install. If prompted, enable "Install from unknown sources" for your browser or file manager.

    Download Columba APK
  2. 2
    Enable Bluetooth & WiFi

    Turn on Airplane Mode to save battery, then re-enable both Bluetooth and WiFi. If your phone warns "No internet" — tap Stay Connected Anyway.

  3. 3
    Disable Battery Optimisation

    Go to Settings → Apps → Columba → Battery → select "Unrestricted". This lets the app relay messages in the background.

  4. 4
    Complete Onboarding

    Columba will create a unique anonymous identity for you — no email or account needed. Follow the in-app guide.

  5. 5
    Announce & Start Messaging

    Tap Announce to let others know you're here. Find peers in Contacts → Network tab and start chatting.

About Columba

Open-source, privacy-first communication. No signup, no central servers, works offline over Bluetooth & WiFi.

Messaging & Voice Calls

Send encrypted messages and make voice calls over the mesh — no internet required. Compatible with Sideband and MeshChatX.

Contacts Tab

Add contacts by scanning their QR code, tapping the star in their profile, or entering their address. The Network sub-tab shows everyone reachable on the mesh.

Map & Location Sharing

See your location and share it with specific contacts for a chosen duration. Stop sharing anytime. Offline maps can be pre-downloaded.

Sharing Your Identity

Use the built-in QR code to share your identity so others can add you. No personal information is required or stored.

Troubleshooting

Can't see any peers?

Make sure Bluetooth and WiFi are both enabled. Tap Announce to make yourself visible. Peers may take a moment to appear.

Messages not delivering?

Both sender and receiver need to have sent announces. Messages relay through nearby devices — more nodes means better delivery.

Installation blocked?

Go to Settings → Apps → Special App Access → Install Unknown Apps. Enable for your browser or file manager, then try again.

App stops in background?

Disable battery optimisation for Columba: App Info → Battery → Unrestricted. Essential for relaying when the screen is off.

macOS: can't connect?

macOS restricts background networking. Keep MeshChat in the foreground and grant all permissions in System Settings → Privacy & Security.

Map not loading?

In Map Settings, enable the HTTP map source toggle. You can also pre-download offline maps while connected to WiFi.

Desktop Setup (MeshChat)

Desktop builds work as relay nodes to help messages travel further. Download for your OS and keep it running.

Linux

AppImage — no installation needed. Download, make it executable, and run. Best desktop relay option.

Download AppImage
macOS

Keep MeshChat in the foreground. Grant permissions in System Settings → Privacy & Security.

Download .dmg
Windows

Experimental support. Keep the app in the foreground for best relay performance.

Download .exe