“All new XChat is rolling out with encryption, vanishing messages and the ability to send any kind of file. Also, audio/video calling.”
XChat replaces the platform’s standard direct messaging with a more advanced system. It supports end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and sending various file types.
At the same time, users can initiate voice and video calls without linking a phone number. This would be designed to work across devices and operating systems.
Musk described XChat as a complete rebuild, developed using the Rust programming language. He emphasized that the encryption model borrows from concepts used in Bitcoin’s architecture, though he did not offer technical details.
The move reflects Musk’s ambition to transform X into a multi-purpose platform that combines social networking, communications, and financial services.
Last month, Musk confirmed that X would soon roll out a payments service in beta mode. He said:
“This will be a very limited access beta at first. When people’s saving are involved, extreme care must be taken.”
Musk’s reference to “Bitcoin-style encryption” has stirred debate in the crypto space, with some developers arguing that the phrase is misleading.
“Bitcoin doesn’t even use encryption.. Also Rust is woke.”
“‘Bitcoin style’ ~= ‘Peer-to-peer’ ~= ‘end-to-end.’ So ‘Bitcoin style encryption’ means ‘end-to-end encryption.’”
Despite the mixed reactions, XChat is now available in beta to some premium subscribers and is widely viewed as a direct challenge to privacy-focused apps like WhatsApp and Signal.
If successful, XChat could mark a significant step forward in Musk’s vision of a secure, all-in-one communication and finance hub.
