An app sends texts by virtual pigeon at up to 110 mph. How long did its first New York to Chicago message take?

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Carrier Pidge was built to push back against instant messaging pressure by forcing you to wait while your digital bird flies across a live map. The app's first message, sent from New York to a friend in Chicago, took 8 hours and 49 minutes to arrive. Users love the slow pace, rating the app 4.7 out of 5.

An app delivers your texts by virtual pigeon. Its first New York to Chicago message took 8 hours and 49 minutes.

Source: The New York Times / The National · checked Aug 2026