XChat: Encrypted Messaging Rolls Out to X Premium
X owner Elon Musk has announced that XChat, a new encrypted messaging system, is rolling out to X Premium subscribers this week. Some users spotted the feature in testing last week, and now it's becoming more widely available.
This new direct messaging (DM) system is built on a new backend architecture, designed to improve security and functionality. It's built using Rust and features what Musk describes as "Bitcoin-style encryption," though the specifics of its implementation remain unclear.
XChat Key Features:
- Full encryption by default
- Vanishing messages
- File attachments
- Audio and video calls (without requiring a phone number)
The updated messaging system is a key part of Musk's vision for X as an "everything app." It's speculated that XChat will be integrated with X Payments, a planned feature that would allow users to transfer money, make purchases, and potentially even replace traditional banking. X is reportedly aiming to launch X Payments later this year.
This new architecture could enable X to replicate the success of platforms like WeChat in China, where messaging is heavily integrated with financial transactions. However, similar attempts by Western platforms have struggled to gain traction. It remains to be seen whether X can overcome these challenges, especially given its declining user base.
While Musk is optimistic about the rollout, he acknowledges potential "scaling issues." The updated XChat is expected to be available to all X Premium subscribers this week.
