Block has launched Buzz, a new open-source platform for collaboration between humans and AI agents, utilizing the Nostr protocol.
Introduction
- Block has introduced Buzz, an open-source platform that promotes collaboration between employees and AI agents.
- Using the Nostr protocol, Buzz offers a secure environment for team communication and automated workflows.
- The platform supports various AI models, enhancing its adaptability for different teams.
Block, the company co-founded by Jack Dorsey, has officially launched Buzz, a free open-source platform that facilitates collaboration between human workers and AI agents. Announced on Tuesday, Buzz aims to create a unified workspace that reduces reliance on traditional communication tools like Slack and GitHub.
Dorsey highlighted the platform's versatility on social media, describing it as a "model-agnostic, decentralized, self-sovereign, and open source" solution for teams of varying sizes. He emphasized the need for a group chat platform that accommodates both human and AI participants.
we're launching BUZZ!
a new groupchat platform for teams of people and agents of all sizes, built to reduce our dependency on slack and github. model-agnostic, decentralized, self-sovereign, and open source. š
ā jack (@jack) July 21, 2026
Buzz integrates features like channels, direct messaging, voice calls, and code repositories into a single interface designed for ease of use. This platform allows agents to have their own cryptographic identities, enabling them to engage in discussions, review code, and automate tasks alongside human users.
According to Bradley Axen, Block's director of AI capabilities, every company will eventually need a platform that supports collaboration between humans and AI. He noted that the open-source nature of Buzz is a significant advantage.
Nostr Protocol and Identity Management
Buzz utilizes the Nostr protocol to tackle identity management challenges in multi-agent collaboration. Each participant is assigned a unique keypair, ensuring that their identity and history are portable across different Nostr-compatible platforms. All interactions are recorded as signed events, creating a verifiable audit trail.
The platform's code is available under the Apache 2.0 license, allowing teams to self-host or use Block's managed service. Currently in its early version 0.4.21, Buzz supports desktop operating systems like macOS, Windows, and Linux, with mobile versions in development.
Rethinking Team Dynamics
Block employees are reimagining team dynamics by moving away from conventional tools that dictate workflows. Lucas Isaza, focusing on AI and product at Block, pointed out that traditional tools often impose rigid structures on how work is conducted. Buzz aims to provide a customizable workspace that shifts the focus to operational models.
In Buzz, a single thread can consolidate discussions and decisions, reducing the need for multiple tools. Isaza mentioned ongoing experiments with agents that enhance collaborative efforts by creating shared whiteboards for discussions.
ā Lucas (@IsazaLucas) July 21, 2026
Block has internally tested the Buzz platform using agents, aiming to improve the experience of working with AI. Thomas Petersen, a principal designer at Block, revealed that the entire platform was developed with the help of AI agents, showcasing its potential for enhancing collaboration.
Commitment to Open Protocols
Buzz represents a continuation of Dorsey's commitment to open protocols following his departure from Twitter. He has supported various initiatives that prioritize decentralization and user control, including Nostr-based tools.
In light of recent workforce reductions at Block, where over 4,000 employees were laid off, Dorsey has expressed the transformative impact of AI on company operations. Earlier this year, he announced plans for Cash App to integrate stablecoin support, and Block's proof-of-reserves documentation revealed the company holds significant Bitcoin assets valued at $2.2 billion.
