Elon Musk has unveiled XChat, a new messaging feature integrated within X (formerly Twitter), aimed at transforming the platform into an “everything app” that rivals popular messaging services like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal.
XChat introduces end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the sender and recipient can read messages, enhancing user privacy and security. The feature also supports vanishing messages that disappear after a set time, file sharing, and audio/video calls, all without requiring users to share their phone numbers. This marks a significant upgrade from X’s previous direct messaging capabilities.
Built on the Rust programming language with what Musk describes as “Bitcoin-style” encryption, XChat offers a fresh architecture designed for secure, private communication. Users who enable XChat must set a four-digit passcode for an extra layer of protection, preventing unauthorized access even if someone gains control of their account.
Currently, XChat is in beta testing and available to paid subscribers, with features like group chats and vanish mode already confirmed through leaked screenshots. This rollout is part of Musk’s broader vision to evolve X into a Western super app, akin to China’s WeChat, encompassing messaging, payments, commerce, entertainment, and dating functionalities.
With over 600 million monthly active users, XChat could help shift the platform from a public social media space to a daily digital utility, integrating communication and financial services under one roof.
