X has initiated the rollout of its new direct messaging feature, XChat, to a group of beta testers. Some users who subscribe to the platform’s paid service have reported early access to this upgraded messaging system. Reverse engineer Nima Owji has confirmed to TechCrunch that XChat appears to be prepared for an upcoming public launch.
Designed to enhance the existing direct messaging capabilities inherited from the platform’s earlier structure before Elon Musk’s acquisition, XChat is expected to introduce several appealing features. Among these are capabilities for group messaging, end-to-end encryption, a vanishing mode for temporary messages, options to mark messages as unread, and file sharing. Reports also suggest that messages will be further protected by a four-digit passcode.
Interestingly, X announced that it is pausing the development of its older encrypted messaging feature, likely due to XChat’s impending release, which could render the current interface obsolete. Paid subscribers have been using a limited encrypted messaging option for the past two years.
Musk has previously voiced his aspirations to develop a messaging service similar to Signal integrated within X. If XChat is indeed close to a wider launch, it may signify Musk’s commitment to fulfilling that vision.
This rollout of XChat represents an exciting evolution in X’s communication tools, potentially addressing user demands for enhanced security and functionality. As more users gain access, it will be interesting to observe how these features impact user engagement on the platform.