Is it possible to text or chat off-the-grid? The short answer is yes. Open Garden has launched FireChat for iOS. The FireChat app will work with Apple products and you do not need an internet connection in order for it to work. Using the Apple framework, the app utilizes Bluetooth or WiFi.

You don’t even need a password. It’s good news mostly but caution is recommended. Here’s the kicker. Say you’re at an event or on location somewhere, and you woul dlike to chat with friends. No problem.

The downside is that everybody that has the app can see what you’re texting. If you are in a remote location then it’s no problem. The TUAW site says that the range is 30 feet.

But you can chat or send photos anonymously. So it’s not a problem really.

Open Garden supposedly has an Android app also.

Features

• Instantly message anyone around you on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch,

• Chat and share photos with one person or with a group,

• See what people are talking about everywhere, or create conversations that only people near you can join,

• Works even without any 3G, 4G or Wi-Fi connection,

* The Nearby mode works best within 30 feet of your location,

• Easy: no Facebook or email login, no password to remember,

• Use it at home or when travelling anywhere in the world,

• No significant impact on battery consumption,

• FireChat is designed for iOS 7.