Elon Musk’s X, formerly known as Twitter, has announced its newest feature, XChat, solidifying Musk’s plan of turn the platform into an “everything app.” This new messaging product features an array of improvements, with a strong focus on security and multimodal communication.
The following is everything you need to know about XChat:
Enhanced Security:
XChat has end-to-end encryption, and Musk likes to call it “Bitcoin-style encryption”, clearly focusing on the secutation of communication.
This privacy focus is also emphasized through the use of “vanishing messages,” which allows users set messages to expire after a certain time.
Versatile Communication:
The service allows for sharing capabilities with Files–users can import Files of all types.
XChat also supports audio and video calls, adding to its usage, aside from text messages.
Platform and Availability:
XChat is designed as a cross-platform software and developed to be available across Android, iOS, and web as well.
The feature is now in beta testing and largely limited to paid subscribers of X.
Musk’s “Everything App” Plan:
And XChat is in line with Musk’s vision to turn X into a multipurpose platform, like China’s WeChat.
Part of that vision is incorporating other services such as messaging, digital payments and possibly even dating features.
Technical Details:
XChat is based on the Rust programming language, which is designed for safety and speed.
The encryption employed can be described as “Bitcoin style encryption” This term simply points at the use of encryption technologies found in “crypto” currency.
XChat is a major advancement in the evolution of X, and is an indication of Musk’s desire to build an end-to-end digital platform. It will be interesting to see how these new developments are utilised by users and in turn, help X move further on its evolutionary path.