Bit Chat Alternatives for Mac OS X

Pidgin is a free and open-source multi-protocol instant messaging client designed to connect users across various chat networks with a single application. It's highly extensible through plugins and supports a wide range of protocols including XMPP, ICQ, and IRC.

Telegram is a fast and secure cloud-based instant messaging platform offering robust privacy features, large group support, file sharing, and cross-platform synchronization, making it a versatile communication tool.

Adium is a free and open-source instant messaging client for macOS, designed to connect to multiple chat networks simultaneously. Supporting protocols like Jabber (XMPP), Google Talk, AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), ICQ, MSN Messenger, and Yahoo! Messenger, Adium provides a unified interface for all your conversations.

Mumble is a free and open-source voice communication application designed with low latency and high audio quality in mind, primarily for gamers. It offers features like positional audio, an in-game overlay, and strong privacy through encryption.

Tox is a free, open-source, and secure peer-to-peer instant messaging and video calling protocol designed for strong privacy and censorship resistance. It provides end-to-end encrypted communications without reliance on central servers.

Trillian is a versatile, multi-protocol instant messaging client that unifies various communication platforms like IRC, XMPP, and more into a single, user-friendly interface. It's designed for both personal and team collaboration, offering features like encrypted chats, group collaboration tools, and extensive customization options.

Signal is a secure, open-source messaging application that uses end-to-end encryption to protect user communications. It offers text messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, and file sharing, all with a strong focus on privacy and security. Available on multiple platforms, Signal is a leading choice for individuals prioritizing confidential conversations.

Jitsi is a free and open-source suite of secure, flexible communication tools. It offers multi-platform support for voice (VoIP), video conferencing, and instant messaging, emphasizing privacy and ease of use with no account required to start a meeting.

TeamSpeak is a leading voice communication software designed for crystal-clear audio, minimal latency, and high security. Perfect for online gaming, team collaboration, and large community interactions, it offers unparalleled control over your communication server and prioritizes user privacy.

RetroShare is a secure, decentralized, and open-source communication platform built on a friend-to-friend network, offering encrypted file sharing, serverless email, instant messaging, and forums.

Wire is a secure, cross-platform messaging and collaboration client offering end-to-end encryption by default for all communication types including messaging, voice and video calls, and file sharing across desktop and mobile devices.

Ring (SFLphone) is a free and open-source communication platform offering secure messaging, voice, and video calls. It leverages decentralization and end-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy across multiple operating systems including Linux, Windows, macOS, and Android.

Off-the-Record Messaging (OTR) is a cryptographic protocol designed to provide secure, end-to-end encrypted instant messaging conversations for enhanced privacy and security.

Bitmessage is an open-source peer-to-peer encrypted messaging system designed to provide robust privacy and security. It operates without central servers, ensuring decentralized communication and offering anonymity by design. Ideal for those prioritizing secure and private digital interactions, it leverages strong encryption to protect messages from eavesdropping.

Wickr is a secure and private instant messaging platform designed for individuals and teams who prioritize confidentiality. It offers end-to-end encryption, self-destructing messages, and a focus on anonymity to ensure that conversations and shared data remain protected.

Toky is a comprehensive cloud-based phone system designed for businesses, offering voice calls, SMS, call recording, and integrations with various CRM and business tools. It provides teams with a flexible and powerful communication platform for customer support and internal collaboration.

YakYak is an unofficial desktop client for Google Hangouts, providing a dedicated application experience outside of a web browser with features focused on convenience and improved usability.