Kim Dotcom has launched the next service under the 'Mega' franchise, this time an encrypted messaging web service named MegaChat.

The messaging platform is a direct move against Skype, which Dotcom claims is not safe to use since the servers are based in the U.S., and under control by a government notorious for surveillance.

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MegaChat is not only based outside of the U.S., but it is encrypted end-to-end, making it virtually impossible for hackers or surveillance groups to access the information.

Dotcom has launched MegaChat in beta and it will be available to all Mega account owners. The chat service is integrated into the web browser, and currently allows audio and video chats.

Before official launch, MegaChat will receive text chat and video conferences, making it a fully fledged messaging platform to rival Skype, even if it lacks the cross-compatibility at the moment.

The MegaUpload scandal has put Dotcom is a position of influence on the internet and notoriety for the U.S. government, and this has worked to make his Mega file sharing and storage service successful.

Still, Dotcom has revealed he is bankrupt and MegaChat may be his last attempt at making money through secure services. On top of working on Mega, Dotcom also runs the Internet Party in New Zealand, where he currently resides.

TagsMega, MegaChat, Kim Dotcom, messaging app, Skype