Code Yapp is a free, web-based chat service focused on privacy and efficiency. It provides secure, temporary, and anonymous chat rooms that are automatically deleted after two hours. It's designed for anyone needing a quick, 'off the record' way to have a conversation, share code, or collaborate without creating a permanent digital footprint. Built with a privacy-first philosophy where the core architecture—not just a feature—guarantees that conversations disappear.
What Makes It Special
Ephemeral by design - all chats auto-delete after 2 hours
100% anonymous - no sign-up or personal info required
Password-protected private rooms for extra security
Real-time messaging with SSE (typing indicators, live user lists)
Simple admin controls (first user becomes admin)
Progressive Web App - installable on mobile & desktop
Powered by Redis via Upstash for serverless performance
Zero permanent data storage - privacy by architecture
Built With Modern Tools
Challenges
The biggest challenge was designing a system where data deletion isn't just a feature but the fundamental architecture. Every technical decision—from using Redis with TTL to implementing Server-Sent Events—was made to ensure that conversations truly disappear. Building real-time functionality without WebSockets while maintaining simplicity was another interesting technical constraint.
Outcome
Code Yapp stands as a direct solution to digital permanence. In a world where everything is recorded and archived, this project proves you can build a powerful collaboration tool without user accounts, endless settings, or long-term data storage. It respects user privacy by design, demonstrating that effective tools can be both simple and privacy-respecting.
